Computer Scientist
Conduct research and develop new computing technologies. Work on algorithms, programming languages, theoretical computer science, and innovation in computing.
What you need to know
Overview
Computer Scientists conduct research into computational theory, develop new algorithms, design programming languages, and advance the fundamental science of computing. They work in academia, research labs, and tech companies pushing the boundaries of what computers can do.
Ireland hosts world-class computer science research at universities (TCD, UCD, UCC) and research centers (Lero, ADAPT). Tech companies like IBM Research and Microsoft Research Dublin employ computer scientists working on cutting-edge problems.
Key responsibilities
- Conduct computational research
- Develop new algorithms
- Design programming languages
- Solve theoretical problems
- Publish research papers
- Present at conferences
- Collaborate with researchers
- Supervise students (academia)
- Apply theory to practical problems
- Advance computing knowledge
What skills are needed?
Research Skills
- • Research methodology
- • Academic writing
- • Critical analysis
- • Literature review
- • Experimental design
Technical Expertise
- • Advanced mathematics
- • Algorithms and complexity
- • Programming languages
- • Theoretical computer science
- • Multiple programming languages
Professional Skills
- • Innovation and creativity
- • Collaboration
- • Presentation skills
- • Persistence
- • Abstract thinking
What is the pay?
Average Salary in Ireland
€40,000 - €80,000
Postdoctoral researchers earn €40,000-€50,000, research scientists €55,000-€75,000, while senior researchers and principal investigators earn €80,000-€110,000+. Industry research roles often pay significantly more than academic positions.
Academic roles offer intellectual freedom and job security. Industry research provides higher salaries and access to resources. Both offer conference travel, research funding, and opportunity to advance human knowledge.
What is the career outlook?
Research Opportunities
Growing research opportunities in Ireland with Science Foundation Ireland funding competitive positions. Both academic and industry research labs actively recruit.
Why pursue computer science research?
- • Fundamental contributions to computing
- • Intellectual challenge
- • Academic freedom
- • Global collaboration
- • Teaching opportunities
- • Industry partnerships
What education is required?
Educational Pathways
PhD (Essential)
PhD in Computer Science or related field required for most positions. Irish universities offer funded PhD programs (4 years) with competitive stipends.
Postdoctoral Experience
1-3 years postdoctoral research typically required for permanent positions. Opportunity to develop independent research and publications.
Publication Record
Publications at top conferences (ACM, IEEE) essential for career advancement. Research impact more important than quantity.
Research Areas
- • Algorithms and complexity theory
- • Programming languages
- • Artificial intelligence
- • Computer systems and architecture
- • Software engineering
- • Human-computer interaction
- • Computational theory
- • Distributed systems
- • Computer graphics
- • Quantum computing
Ready to Advance Computing Science?
Explore PhD programs and research opportunities.
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