Also called: AI Research Scientist
Invents new AI methods and figures out why they work.
You run experiments training models on huge computer clusters, read the latest papers, and try new ideas. Top labs pay very well and compete for talent.
Based on computer and information research scientists; top AI labs pay far more.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Doctorate (PhD), about 9 years after high school. PhD in computer science, statistics, math, or physics.
Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics.
Growing much faster than average (about 20% over 10 years).
Medium risk for 10 years. AI speeds coding and experiments, but labs still compete hard for people with new ideas; entry is very competitive.
Classes: AP Calculus BC, AP Computer Science, 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.