Scientific activity at PMF is carried out in the area of the Natural Sciences (fields: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geology, Geophysics and Interdisciplinary natural sciences) and the Interdisciplinary area of science (Geography), and it accounts for about 20% of the total scientific production of the University of Zagreb. The PMF research profile is reflected in the scientific publications in leading scientific journals, in cooperation with leading international research groups and institutions, the significant number of national and international scientific projects and accompanying scientific infrastructure, the library fundus and periodicals. 

PMF is also recognised as an institution whose scientists, with their expertise and professional studies, aid in resolving a wide range of problems of various aspects of social life in the Republic of Croatia. Many professional projects have been initiated and successfully carried out at PMF in cooperation with public and state institutions, and with numerous economic entities, and many projects are currently ongoing.