• Computer Scientist Job Description

    A computer scientist is a scientist with an expert knowledge of computers. Computer scientists identify real-life issues that can be solved with computer technology and then perform research to develop and test computer theories and systems for addressing the issues.

    A computer scientist should be enthusiastic, curious, imaginative, creative, persistent and adaptable, and have the ability to think methodically and logically. They should ensure that the systems they develop work as expected and are reliable and maintainable.

    Pursue a career in computer science if you have aptitude for math and computer science, and passion for the design, construction, and use of computers to solve problems.
  • What does a Computer Scientist do?

    Computer scientists may do some or all of the following:

    • plan and conduct computer technology research to test theories and invent new computer technology
    • collaborate with programmers, developers and engineers to plan and develop algorithms for computer programs and applications
    • review computer software and hardware project plans to check their feasibility
    • test and evaluate computer systems and their applications
    • find new uses of existing computer technology
    • teach at colleges and universities
  • Where does a Computer Scientist work?

    All industries

  • Working Conditions

    Computer scientists may work normal office hours or long irregular hours sitting in front of a computer screen. They work in offices, classrooms, or anywhere a computer can be set up.

  • What is Required to Become a Computer Scientist ?

    To become a computer scientist, you will need to have a master’s degree in computer science or a related discipline.

    Computer scientists can also obtain relevant certifications from well-known companies such as IBM, Microsoft, or Oracle to boost their chances of getting employed.

  • Modules

    Just to give you an idea, some of the classes that you’ll be taking in college may include:

    • Calculus
    • Linear Algebra
    • Statistics
    • Programming Principles and languages
    • Data Structures
    • Computer Architecture
    • Discrete Computational Structures
    • Computer Organization & Assembly Language
    • Object Oriented Programming
    • Software Engineering
    • Operating Systems
    • Database management Systems
  • Specializations

    A computer scientist may specialize in any of the following fields:

    • Computer architecture – the development of computer equipment and devices
    • Web design and development – the design and development of websites
    • Robotics – the design and use of robots
    • Artificial intelligence – the development of intelligent machines
    • Software engineering – the design and implementation of computer programs
    • Human-computer interfacing – the design of efficient ways for human-computers interactions
  • Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

    Computer scientists need to have:

    • patience
    • perseverance
    • confidence
    • versatility and adaptability
    • creativity and innovation
    • good memory
    • good attention to detail
    • good interpersonal skills
    • good listening and communication skills
    • good judgment and decision making skills
    • analytical and problem solving skills
    • time-management and organizational skills
    • technical skills
    • leadership skills
    • math skills
    • the ability to concentrate for long periods of time
    • the ability to learn and apply new knowledge
    • the ability to learn and memorize programming languages
    • knowledge of computer system concepts
    • knowledge of computer architecture
    • knowledge of computer system design, development, and testing
    • knowledge of human –computer interfacing

References

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