Computer and Information Research Scientists

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 5 (33%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 8 (53%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 2 (13%)

• Analyze problems to develop solutions involving computer hardware and software.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Apply theoretical expertise and innovation to create or apply new technology, such as adapting principles for applying computers to new uses.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Design computers and the software that runs them.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Conduct logical analyses of business, scientific, engineering, and other technical problems, formulating mathematical models of problems for solution by computers.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Develop performance standards, and evaluate work in light of established standards.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Assign or schedule tasks to meet work priorities and goals.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Evaluate project plans and proposals to assess feasibility issues.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Participate in multidisciplinary projects in areas such as virtual reality, human-computer interaction, or robotics.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Consult with users, management, vendors, and technicians to determine computing needs and system requirements.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Develop and interpret organizational goals, policies, and procedures.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Maintain network hardware and software, direct network security measures, and monitor networks to ensure availability to system users.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Direct daily operations of departments, coordinating project activities with other departments.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Approve, prepare, monitor, and adjust operational budgets.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Meet with managers, vendors, and others to solicit cooperation and resolve problems.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Participate in staffing decisions and direct training of subordinates.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task