Magma has been developed by the Computational Algebra Group at the University of Sydney. Support was provided by the Australian Research Council. The basic mission of the Group is the development of computer techniques for solving symbolic problems in mathematics, with particular emphasis on the areas of algebra, number theory and geometry. The activities extend from the design of algorithms through to the construction of Computer Algebra packages and languages. The Group concentrates on what might be called discrete algebraic and combinatorial structures: groups, rings, fields, modules, algebras, designs and geometries. A particular strength of the Group is its expertise in computational methods across several major branches of mathematics.
The Group provides a unique environment in that it brings together mathematicians, computer scientists and software engineers. The development of good algorithms requires the involvement of leading researchers from the relevant areas of mathematics. The efficient implementation and embedding of these algorithms in large integrated software systems requires sophisticated techniques from computer science. The design and implementation of algebraic programming languages requires the involvement of both mathematicians and computer scientists.
The expertise available within the Group is considerably enhanced by a number of close relationships that have been forged with specialist groups, both in Australia and overseas, and by the generosity of numerous mathematicians and computer scientists who are prepared to act as unpaid consultants for the Group.