The job market for computer and information research scientists in the United States

There are currently an estimated 27,900 computer and information research scientists in the United States. The computer and information research scientist job market is expected to grow by 19.0% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are computer and information research scientists?

CareerExplorer rates computer and information research scientists with a D employability rating, meaning this career should provide weak employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 10,500 computer and information research scientists. That number is based on 5,300 additional computer and information research scientists, and the retirement of 5,200 existing computer and information research scientists.

Are computer and information research scientists in demand?

Weak employment growth and demand projected for computer and information research scientists is due largely to three factors: the field has a generally low turnover; over the next decade, a small number of people are expected to retire from the career; and the occupation has recently started to experience unemployment. Despite these issues, rapid growth in consumer data collection by businesses may lead to an increased need for data mining services. This would in turn translate into a need for more computer scientists knowledgeable in writing algorithms that help companies sort, manage, and display very large amounts of data. Emphasis on cybersecurity should result in demand for scientists trained to prevent cyberattacks, track hackers, and improve digital information security. Expanding use of robots in the manufacturing, distribution, and military sectors may result in some additional openings for candidates familiar with designing robotic brain systems. Applicants with experience in creating new programming languages to make software writing more efficient will also be among the best equipped to endure any downturns in the industry.

What’s the supply of computer and information research scientists?

The computer and information research scientist industry is concentrated in California, Virginia, Maryland

Computer and Information Research Scientist job market by state