Computer and Information Research Scientists

Career summary

Computer and information research scientists create and apply new approaches to technology and find new uses for current technology. They study and solve problems in computing for business, science, engineering, and other fields.

Scientists find issues with computer software and hardware and develop solutions. They also work on developing new computer models and software programs. Sometimes they meet with managers and other staff to figure out computing needs and system requirements. 

Computer and information research scientists maintain network security. They also manage budgets for computer-related goals, policies, and procedures. They might train new staff and teach them about the computer systems in place.

They sometimes work on projects including:

• Robotics
• Virtual reality
• Human-computer interaction 

Related careers

This career is part of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Aerospace Engineers
• Biologists
• Computer Engineers
• Computer Network Architects
• Computer Programmers
• Computer Systems Analysts
• Database Administrators
• Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• Energy Engineers
• Operations Research Analysts
• Petroleum Engineers
• Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
• Statisticians

Military careers

• Computer Systems Officers

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to computer and information research scientists.

• Analyze problems with computer hardware and software to develop solutions.
• Create or apply new technology.
• Maintain network hardware and software and direct security measures.
• Meet with users, managers, vendors, and technicians to determine system needs.
• Maintain network security.
• Coordinate computer-related projects. Assign or schedule tasks to meet goals.
• Work on projects involving robotics, virtual reality, and human-computer interaction.
• Develop performance standards for staff.
• Train new staff about computer systems in place.

Common work activities

Computer and information research scientists perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Use computers
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Get information needed to do the job
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Analyze data or information
• Think creatively
• Document and record information
• Process information
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Develop goals and strategies
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Evaluate information against standards
• Schedule work and activities
• Provide advice and consultation to others
• Teach others
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, computer and information research scientists:

Interpersonal relationships

• Be in contact with others daily by phone, e-mail, and in person.
• Have a high level of social interaction. They work with technicians, programmers, and other office workers.
• Always work as part of a team. May lead the work of others.
• Occasionally work with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous people.

Physical work conditions

• Always work indoors.
• Usually share work space with others.
• Sit for long periods of time.

Work performance

• Cause very serious errors if they make a mistake.
• Make decisions that have a major impact on others and make most decisions without consulting a supervisor.
• Must be very accurate in your job. Major errors could cause problems in computer networks and software.
• Repeat the same physical and mental tasks.
• Set your own tasks and goals.
• Work in a competitive environment and meet strict deadlines

Hours/travel

• Work a regular schedule.
• Usually have a set schedule and work 40 hours a week.

Physical demands

Computer and information research scientists frequently:

• Sit for long periods of time.

It is important for computer and information research scientists to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for computer and information research scientists to be able to:

• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.

Skills and abilities

Computer and information research scientists need to:

Communicate

• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand spoken information.
• Understand written information.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.
• Read and understand work-related materials.

Reason and problem solve

• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Think of new ideas about a topic.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Recognize when important changes happen or are likely to happen in a system.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Think of original, unusual, or creative ways to solve problems.
• Identify what must be changed to reach goals.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.

Use math and science

• Choose a mathematical method or formula to solve problems.
• Use math skills to solve problems.
• Add, subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and correctly.
• Use scientific methods to solve problems.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Manage the time of self and others.
• Check how well one is learning or doing something.

Work with people

• Teach others how to do something.
• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.
• Use several methods to learn or teach new things.
• Be aware of others' reactions and understand the possible causes.

Work with things

• Write computer programs.
• Design equipment and technology to meet user needs.
• Analyze needs and requirements when designing products.

Perceive and visualize

• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.
• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
• Informatics
• Information Science

Other programs of study to consider

• Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
• Bioinformatics
• Game and Interactive Media Design
• Information Technology
• Medical Informatics

Training

To work as a computer and information research scientist, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree; and
• have a master’s degree

Education after high school

Most computer and information research scientists have a master’s degree in computer science or a related field, such as computer engineering.

Those who work in a specialized field may need knowledge of that field. For example, those working on biomedical applications may need to have taken some biology classes.

Work experience

You should consider participating in an internship while in college. An internship is usually part of a four-year degree program. It offers you a chance to apply what you have learned in the classroom to a work situation. It also allows you to build skills and make contacts with people in the field.

On-the-job training

Because of the fast changing demands of technology, employers often provide training or pay for college course work. This is so you can update your technical skills.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be computer systems officers. Training lasts from five to 18 weeks, depending on your specialty. You need at least a bachelor's degree to enter this military occupation.

Helpful high school courses

In high school, take classes that prepare you for college. A college preparatory curriculum  may be different from your state's graduation requirements .

You should also consider taking some advanced courses in high school. This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Computer Applications
• Computer Programming
• Computer Science
• Network Technology

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Wages

Wages vary by employer and area of the country.

Full-time computer and information research scientists usually receive benefits. Typical benefits include health insurance, paid vacation, and sick leave. Some employers also offer a retirement plan.

Employment and outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Federal government, excluding postal service
• Computer systems designers
• Researchers and developers in the physical, engineering, and life sciences

National outlook

Demand for computer and information research scientists is expected to be very strong. As the demand for new and better technology grows, so will the demand for computer scientists.

Companies investing in newer, faster, and mobile technologies will want computer and information research scientists to provide feedback on new products.

Other resources

American Association for the Advancement of Science 
1200 New York Ave, NW
Washington,DC20005

American Mathematical Society 
201 Charles Street
Providence, RI 02904
800.321.4267
401.455.4000

American Society for Information Science and Technology 
8555 - 16th Street, Suite 850
Silver Spring, MD 20910
301.495.0900

Association for Computing Machinery 
1601 Broadway, 10th Floor1
New York, NY 10019-7434
800.342.6626
212.626.0500

Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence 

Association for Women in Computing - Puget Sound Chapter 
3743 S. 170th Street
Sea-Tac, WA 98188

Center of Excellence for Information & Computing Technology 

Computing Research Association 
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20036-4632

Computing Technology Industry Association 
3500 Lacey Road, Suite 100
Downers Grove, IL 60515
630.678.8300

IEEE Computer Society 
2001 L Street NW, Suite 700
Washington, DC 20036
202.371.0101

Information Technology Industry Council 
1101 K Street NW, Suite 610
Washington, DC 20005
202.737.8888

Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP) 
244 S Randall Road #116
Elgin, IL 60123
847.299.4227

International Association for Computer Information Systems 
405.744.8632

Mathematical Sciences Career Information 

The Advanced Computing Systems Association 

Washington State Science & Engineering Fair 

References

Career cluster

• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

Career path

• Investigative (Science)

O*Net  occupation

• Computer and Information Research Scientists (15-1111.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed. Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience.

DOT occupations

• Information Scientist (109.067-010) 
• Programmer-analyst (030.162-014) 

Holland occupational cluster

• Investigative/Realistic/Conventional

COPSystem

• Science Professional