| Princeton is most famous for its strength in mathematics, while MIT is more on applied math/engineering side. The pinnacle of the best mathematicians in the world have studied at Princeton, including notable geniuses like Terrence Tao, Edward Witten, and other Field Medalists. Princeton's science/engineering programs are very strong, many of the top students in Princeton end up choosing engineering as their major.
One major you might want to check out is Operations Research and Financial Engineering (ORFE). This is Princeton's version of using hardcore mathematics in the field of finance, and is by far the best program out there in landing students the best finance jobs possible, which is what lured me to Princeton. Just look at the record placement every year and you'll no doubt agree.
As for undergraduate research, the student must make the initiative to contact professors. MIT's UROP program is better suited for this. |