Life As a Computer and Information Research Scientist
Computer & Information Research Scientist Definition Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
Computer & Information Research Scientist Responsibilities
- Approve, prepare, monitor, and adjust operational budgets.
- Design computers and the software that runs them.
- Maintain network hardware and software, direct network security measures, and monitor networks to ensure availability to system users.
- Conduct logical analyses of business, scientific, engineering, and other technical problems, formulating mathematical models of problems for solution by computers.
- Direct daily operations of departments, coordinating project activities with other departments.
- Participate in multidisciplinary projects in areas such as virtual reality, human-computer interaction, or robotics.
Featured schools near , edit
Skills Needed to be a Computer & Information Research Scientist
Below is a list of the skills most Computer and Information Research Scientists say are important on the job.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Systems Analysis: Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Other Computer & Information Research Scientist Job Titles
- Nanotechnologist
- Data Consultant
- Computer Science Professor
- Machine Learning Scientist
- Artificial Intelligence Specialist
Is There Going to be Demand for Computer and Information Research Scientists?
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 27,900 jobs in the United States for Computer and Information Research Scientist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 19% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 5,300 new jobs for Computer and Information Research Scientist by 2026. The BLS estimates 2,500 yearly job openings in this field.

The states with the most job growth for Computer & Information Research Scientist are Nebraska, Washington, and Utah. Watch out if you plan on working in Mississippi, Alaska, or South Carolina. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Computer & Information Research Scientist Average Salary
The average yearly salary of a Computer & Information Research Scientist ranges between $69,230 and $183,820.

Computer and Information Research Scientists who work in Washington, New Mexico, or Minnesota, make the highest salaries.
How much do Computer and Information Research Scientists make in different U.S. states?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $138,510 |
Arizona | $111,510 |
Arkansas | $95,220 |
California | $136,310 |
Colorado | $121,180 |
Connecticut | $117,990 |
District of Columbia | $127,900 |
Florida | $101,120 |
Georgia | $100,140 |
Hawaii | $107,520 |
Idaho | $137,180 |
Illinois | $113,350 |
Indiana | $107,150 |
Kansas | $94,300 |
Louisiana | $89,810 |
Maryland | $119,180 |
Massachusetts | $116,920 |
Michigan | $103,350 |
Minnesota | $129,890 |
Mississippi | $95,860 |
Missouri | $96,810 |
Nebraska | $86,400 |
Nevada | $103,070 |
New Hampshire | $128,240 |
New Jersey | $127,420 |
New Mexico | $136,370 |
New York | $131,220 |
North Carolina | $108,460 |
Ohio | $112,490 |
Oklahoma | $84,070 |
Oregon | $130,220 |
Pennsylvania | $107,660 |
Rhode Island | $108,890 |
South Carolina | $96,870 |
Tennessee | $113,960 |
Texas | $125,800 |
Utah | $98,210 |
Virginia | $129,840 |
Washington | $143,080 |
West Virginia | $77,580 |
Wisconsin | $77,870 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Computer and Information Research Scientists
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Computer and Information Research Scientists:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Git
- Python
- MySQL
- Data entry software
- MongoDB
- Data visualization software
- Microsoft Project
- Structured query language SQL
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- SAS
- Microsoft Dynamics
- Linux
- Ruby
- Microsoft Visual Basic
- Extensible markup language XML
- IBM SPSS Statistics
Becoming a Computer & Information Research Scientist
What kind of Computer and Information Research Scientist requirements are there?

How many years of work experience do I need?

Where do Computer and Information Research Scientists Work?

Below are examples of industries where Computer and Information Research Scientists work:

Other Jobs You May be Interested In
Those interested in being a Computer and Information Research Scientist may also be interested in:
References:
Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
Featured Schools
![]() |
Southern New Hampshire University You have goals. Southern New Hampshire University can help you get there. Whether you need a bachelor's degree to get into a career or want a master's degree to move up in your current career, SNHU has an online program for you. Find your degree from over 200 online programs. Learn More > |