Also called: Research Scientist (Machine Learning), Computer and Information Research Scientist
Invents new AI methods and pushes the frontier of what machines can learn.
You read the latest papers over coffee, then design an experiment testing a new idea for making models reason better. Most ideas fail; the one that works might become a famous paper and shape the next generation of AI.
BLS computer and information research scientists median $140,300 (May 2025); frontier lab packages can be many times higher.
Doctorate (PhD), about 9 years after high school. PhD in CS, math, physics, or a related field is typical at top labs.
Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics.
Growing much faster than average (about 22% over 10 years). BLS projects 22% growth for computer and information research scientists, 2025-35.
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. AI is starting to help run experiments and write code for research; inventing new methods stays a small, elite human field.
Classes: AP Calculus BC, AP Physics C, AP Computer Science A, AP Statistics.
Official data: O*NET occupation 15-1221.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.