The Edinburgh Mathematical Society (EMS) was founded in 1883 and has since become firmly established as the principal society for the mathematical sciences community in Scotland. The aims of the EMS are the development and promotion of all aspects of the mathematical sciences - including pure and applied mathematics, statistics, operational research, and data science - particularly in Scotland.  It draws its membership from all the Scottish universities and other educational institutions as well as from mathematical scientists in industry and commerce both at home and overseas.

The EMS is a partner in the Council for Mathematical Sciences which incorporates the London Mathematical Society, the Royal Statistical Society, the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications, and the Operational Research Society.  The Edinburgh Mathematical Society is additionally a corporate member of the European Mathematical Society.