Computer and Information Research Scientists

1. Overview

Computer and information research scientists explore innovative ways to apply new and existing computing technology. They solve complex computing problems across various fields, including business, science, medicine, and more. With rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science, this role is integral to shaping the future of technology.

• 2024 Median Pay: $140,910 per year

• Job Growth (2023–2033): 26% (Much faster than average)

• Typical Education: Master's degree

• Work Experience in a Related Occupation: None

• On-the-job Training: None

2. Role Breakdown by Level

Entry-Level Role: Computer and Information Research Scientist

• Job Titles: Research Scientist, Computer Science Researcher, Junior Research Scientist

• Education: Master's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related field. Some employers may hire candidates with a Ph.D.

• Experience: Typically none required, but internships or research experience during a Master's degree can be beneficial.

• Certifications: Certifications are not typically required for entry-level roles.

• Core Duties:

• Conduct experiments and research in computing and data science.

• Develop algorithms and models for problem-solving.

• Write and publish research papers.

• Collaborate with other scientists and engineers.

• Salary Range: $90,000 – $140,000 per year

• Key Skills:

• Analytical skills

• Problem-solving

• Knowledge of algorithms

• Programming skills (e.g., Python, C++)

Mid-Level Role: Senior Computer and Information Research Scientist

• Job Titles: Senior Research Scientist, Lead Scientist, Research Manager

• Education: Master's degree or Ph.D. in a specialized field.

• Experience: Several years of experience in research and application of technology to solve complex problems, often leading projects.

• Certifications: May hold certifications in specialized fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning, or cybersecurity.

• Core Duties:

• Lead research projects and direct teams of junior scientists.

• Develop new algorithms and systems for complex problems in areas like AI, data security, or robotics.

• Present findings at conferences and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

• Salary Range: $140,000 – $180,000 per year

• Key Skills:

• Leadership and teamwork

• Advanced algorithms and computing theory

• Research and experimentation

• Presentation and communication skills

Senior-Level Role: Computer and Information Research Director

• Job Titles: Director of Research, Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Research Division Leader

• Education: Ph.D. or specialized education in computer science, engineering, or related fields.

• Experience: 10+ years of experience in computer science research, with leadership roles in directing large-scale projects and research agendas.

• Certifications: Industry certifications may include leadership or specialized technical certifications.

• Core Duties:

• Oversee research departments and technology development projects.

• Define and implement research strategies and funding proposals.

• Act as the subject-matter expert and represent the organization in scientific and technical communities.

• Manage partnerships with other research institutions and lead collaborations.

• Salary Range: $180,000 – $250,000+ per year

• Key Skills:

• High-level leadership and management

• Strategic planning and budgeting

• In-depth knowledge of emerging technologies

• Expertise in grant writing and academic collaborations

3. How to Become a Computer and Information Research Scientist

Education Requirements:

• Entry-Level: A master's degree in computer science or a related field, such as computer engineering, data science, or information systems. Some federal government positions may hire individuals with a bachelor's degree.

• Mid-Level: A Ph.D. is often preferred for senior research roles in specialized fields like machine learning, AI, or robotics.

• Senior-Level: A Ph.D. in a specialized field with extensive research experience and advanced leadership training.

Work Experience in a Related Occupation:

• Internships, academic research, and projects undertaken during advanced degrees provide foundational experience. Work in related research roles such as research assistant or junior scientist can be stepping stones.

Licenses and Certifications:

• While certifications are not commonly required for researchers in academia or industry, specific industry certifications may be beneficial in specialized fields like AI, data science, or cybersecurity.

Training:

• Most training for computer and information research scientists is gained through formal education and independent research. However, gaining experience in labs or working with technology companies can provide practical experience.

4. Skills & Tools

Core Skills:

• Analytical Skills: Ability to break down complex problems and develop efficient algorithms.

• Mathematics: Expertise in advanced mathematics, especially in areas like calculus, statistics, and linear algebra.

• Programming: Proficiency in multiple programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, and MATLAB.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to think critically and find innovative solutions.

• Communication: Ability to present complex concepts and research findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Tools & Equipment:

• Programming Languages: Python, Java, C++, MATLAB.

• Research Tools: Data analysis and visualization tools like R, SPSS, Tableau.

• Computing Tools: High-performance computing clusters, cloud-based services, and AI modeling platforms.

5. Work Environment

Most computer and information research scientists work full time in a collaborative environment, often within research labs, universities, or tech companies. Some may work remotely, especially in industries focused on AI and cloud computing.

• Work Schedule: Full-time with standard office hours; however, deadlines may require occasional extended hours.

• Work Locations: Universities, government research labs, tech companies, or research departments in industries such as healthcare, automotive, or aerospace.

6. Pay

• Median Annual Wage (2024): $140,910

• Salary by Industry:

• Software Publishers: $237,990

• Computer Systems Design and Related Services: $166,620

• Research and Development in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences: $153,430

• Federal Government: $123,340

7. Job Outlook

• Job Growth: 26% (Much faster than average) from 2023–2033.

• Annual Openings: Approximately 3,400 openings each year due to both growth in the field and the need to replace workers who transfer to other roles or retire.

8. Related Occupations

• Computer and Information Systems Managers: Oversee and coordinate computing and IT activities in organizations.

• Computer Hardware Engineers: Design and test computer systems and components.

• Data Scientists: Analyze data using mathematical and computational techniques to gain insights and solve complex problems.

9. Resources for Learning & Advancement

• Books:

• "Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach" by Stuart Russell and Peter Norvig.

• "Introduction to Algorithms" by Thomas H. Cormen, Charles E. Leiserson, Ronald L. Rivest, and Clifford Stein.

• Online Courses:

• Coursera offers courses in computer science, machine learning, and data science.

• edX provides advanced research and theory-based courses for computing and artificial intelligence.

• Certifications:

• Certified Data Scientist from Data Science Council of America (DASCA).

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) for cybersecurity specialists.

• Communities:

• ACM (Association for Computing Machinery): Offers conferences, publications, and resources for computer scientists.

• IEEE Computer Society: Professional society with resources for researchers and engineers in computer science and engineering.