All careers

Computer and Information Research Scientists

  • Bright Outlook
  • Rapid Growth

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.

What you’d do

  • Analyze problems to develop solutions involving computer hardware and software.
  • Apply theoretical expertise and innovation to create or apply new technology, such as adapting principles for applying computers to new uses.
  • Assign or schedule tasks to meet work priorities and goals.
  • Meet with managers, vendors, and others to solicit cooperation and resolve problems.
  • Design computers and the software that runs them.
  • Conduct logical analyses of business, scientific, engineering, and other technical problems, formulating mathematical models of problems for solution by computers.
  • Evaluate project plans and proposals to assess feasibility issues.
  • Participate in multidisciplinary projects in areas such as virtual reality, human-computer interaction, or robotics.

Skills that matter

  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Active Listening
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Systems Analysis

How to get there

Extensive preparation: most need graduate school, such as a master's degree or higher

Also called

  • Computer Scientist
  • Computer Specialist
  • Control System Computer Scientist
  • Research Scientist
  • Scientific Programmer Analyst

Related careers

See all careers

  • Data Scientists

    • Bright Outlook
    • Rapid Growth

    Develop and implement a set of techniques or analytics applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented…

    Considerable preparation: most need a four-year bachelor's degree

  • Mathematicians

    Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields.

    Extensive preparation: most need graduate school, such as a master's degree or higher

  • Software Developers

    • Bright Outlook
    • Rapid Growth
    • Numerous Job Openings

    Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs.

    Considerable preparation: most need a four-year bachelor's degree

  • Computer Programmers

    Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run.

    Considerable preparation: most need a four-year bachelor's degree

  • Operations Research Analysts

    • Bright Outlook
    • Rapid Growth

    Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with…

    Extensive preparation: most need graduate school, such as a master's degree or higher

  • Computer Systems Engineers/Architects

    • Bright Outlook
    • Rapid Growth

    Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns.

    Medium preparation: usually vocational school, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree