Computer and information research scientists
🤍 Save CareerComputer and information research scientists play a vital role in the US economy, with 40K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $140,910, with projected growth of 20% through 2034 (Much faster than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
🔥 High Growth — 20% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
This career faces substantial disruption from AI automation.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Computer and information research scientists
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Computer and information research scientists
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
This occupation is fundamentally digital, involving high-level coding, algorithm design, and data analysis—all areas where AI is rapidly advancing. While these scientists are the ones building AI, the tools they create are increasingly capable of automating their own core tasks, such as writing code, simplifying algorithms, and analyzing experimental results, leading to extreme productivity gains and role restructuring.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 20% projected growth and a median salary of $140,910, this career offers strong prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in computer and information research scientists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Computer and information research scientists make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Computer and information research scientists is $140,910 per year. Entry-level positions start around $84,546, while experienced professionals can earn up to $225,456 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Computer and information research scientists?▼
Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is master's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Computer and information research scientists?▼
Most Computer and information research scientists positions require master's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Computer and information research scientists?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Computer and information research scientists. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Computer and information research scientists do on a daily basis?▼
As a computer and information research scientist, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Computer and information research scientists a good career in 2026?▼
With 20% projected growth and a median salary of $140,910, this career offers strong prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 20%, which is declining. The median salary of $140,910 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Computer and information research scientistss?▼
Computer and information research scientists has an AI automation risk score of 90/100 (Very High). This career faces significant evolution from AI. However, new specialized roles are emerging that combine domain expertise with AI capabilities.
What kind of person makes a good Computer and information research scientists?▼
Anyone interested in computer and information research scientists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Computer and information research scientists Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Computer and information research scientists matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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