Computer and Information Research Scientists
Computer and information research scientists design innovative uses for new and existing computing technology.
Is computer and information research scientists a good career?
It scores 54/100 and ranks #35 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($140,300 vs $61,390)
- Faster-than-average projected growth (+19.7% through 2034)
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a master's degree
What computer and information research scientists earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. computer and information research scientists earn between $103,570 and $188,700 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live computer and information research scientists jobs
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- Typical education
- Master's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow much faster than average through 2034.
Education
Computer and information research scientists typically need a master’s or higher degree in computer science or a related field, such as computer engineering. A master’s degree usually requires 2 to 3 years of study after earning a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, such as computer science or information systems. Some employers prefer to hire candidates who have a Ph.D. Others, such as the federal government, may hire candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology.
Computer and information research scientists who work in a specialized field may need knowledge of that field. For example, those working on biomedical applications may need to have studied biology.
Advancement
Some computer and information research scientists advance to become computer and information systems managers.
Important qualities
Analytical skills. Computer and information research scientists must be organized in their thinking to evaluate the results of their research.
Communication skills. Computer and information research scientists must be able to clearly explain their research, including to a nontechnical audience. They write papers for publication and present their research at conferences.
Detail oriented. Computer and information research scientists must pay close attention to their work, such as when testing the systems they design. Small programming errors could affect an entire project.
Interpersonal skills. Computer and information research scientists must work effectively with programmers and managers. They also may be on teams with engineers or other specialists.
Logical thinking. Computer and information research scientists must use sound reasoning when working on algorithms.
Math skills. Computer and information research scientists need a solid grasp of advanced math and other technical subjects critical to computing.
Problem-solving skills. Computer and information research scientists must think creatively to find innovative solutions in their research.
Related occupations
How much do computer and information research scientists make?
The national median wage is $140,300 a year, with the middle half earning between $103,570 and $188,700 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is computer and information research scientists a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 54 of 100 and ranks #35 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +19.7% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a computer and information research scientist?
The typical entry-level education is master's degree.
Where do computer and information research scientists earn the most?
Among states, Oregon pays the highest median ($206,220). Local pay for every state and metro is below.