Social Science Research Assistants

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: 9 (39%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 11 (48%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 3 (13%)

• Design and create special programs for tasks such as statistical analysis and data entry and cleaning.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Provide assistance with the preparation of project-related reports, manuscripts, and presentations.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Perform descriptive and multivariate statistical analyses of data, using computer software.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Verify the accuracy and validity of data entered in databases, correcting any errors.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Perform data entry and other clerical work as required for project completion.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Edit and submit protocols and other required research documentation.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Code data in preparation for computer entry.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Track laboratory supplies and expenses such as participant reimbursement.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Provide assistance in the design of survey instruments such as questionnaires.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Prepare tables, graphs, fact sheets, and written reports summarizing research results.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Develop and implement research quality control procedures.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Prepare, manipulate, and manage extensive databases.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Conduct internet-based and library research.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Present research findings to groups of people.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Administer standardized tests to research subjects, or interview them to collect research data.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Recruit and schedule research participants.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Screen potential subjects to determine their suitability as study participants.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Track research participants, and perform any necessary follow-up tasks.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Supervise the work of survey interviewers.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Perform needs assessments or consult with clients to determine the types of research and information required.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Obtain informed consent of research subjects or their guardians.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Collect specimens such as blood samples, as required by research projects.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Allocate and manage laboratory space and resources.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task