Are you looking for research jobs in information systems?
Information systems research brings together innovative technology and ideas such as big data, machine learning, 6G capabilities, and cloud computing to meet the changing technological and operational needs of businesses and organisations worldwide. Research in this area is pivotal to the advancement of the global economy, healthcare, manufacturing, and sustainability.
Researchers and experts who can interpret and develop these systems are highly sought after in all sectors, both private and public. Whether you are an early-career researcher or well into your information systems career you will find a wide range of exciting research projects available in universities, research institutes and foundations, government bodies and in industry.
In this section of our Academic Jobs in Computer Sciences series, we look at typical routes into a research career in information systems and science, what it is like to work in the sector, and where to find jobs.
Career Path
On completion of a Ph.D. in information systems (or related area) your next step would be to secure a postdoctoral research role on a research project which aligns with your area of expertise. If you are currently working towards your Ph.D., you could also consider applying for research assistant jobs in information systems to help you hone your skills and give your CV a boost in future job applications.
The area of research you choose will depend on your first degree and/or Master’s and information systems-related doctoral specialism. However, knowledge of High-Performance Computing (HPC), cloud infrastructure/solutions and large-scale data analysis expertise would be essential for most information systems research jobs. Research projects and activities tend to be fixed-term contracts, so it is likely that you will complete a couple of postdoctoral projects before being considered for promotion to senior research associate/fellow or lecturer/senior lecturer.
Working as an Information Systems researcher
Information systems research is challenging and varied. Depending on the role, you would most likely spend your time collecting and interpreting data, developing operating systems and programming and working within a multi-skilled team to prepare funding proposals and results for publication. You could also be supervising junior researchers and doctoral students as well as delivering ad hoc teaching and demonstrations to students at all levels (in a Higher Education setting).
Areas of research in information systems are highly diverse and driven by the needs of the global business and technology sector. So, you could be researching business intelligence and data mining systems used in companies or the public sector or using your expertise to advance manufacturing methods or health data technology. As the world relies more heavily on information technology and data collection in all areas, the opportunities for research are boundless.
Current and popular information systems research areas include:
- High-Performance Computing (HPC)
- Large-scale systems
- Communications systems
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data science/big data/health data science
- Data mining
- Cybersecurity and information security
- Internet of Things (IoTs)
- Cloud computing
- Mobile technologies
- Business analytics and intelligence
- Financial services
The day-to-day duties of an information systems researcher would depend on the focus and nature of the research project. Information systems research is underpinned by a drive towards results that have a tangible impact in all global sectors. Therefore, you will be working on projects which are joint-funded by a range of external organisations, public bodies, and the commercial sector.
In general, the majority of technical research jobs include the following duties:
- Analysing and interpreting large-scale and complex data
- Contributing to research and testing software/hardware
- Using highly specialised computational equipment
- Contributing to the formulation and submission of research publications and proposals
- Working within a multi-disciplinary team
- Collaborating with project partners and external organisations
- Delivery of workshops and demonstrations to students
Where to find jobs
Applied information systems research is hugely important in the commercial sector and you will find jobs in large companies, public sector organisations, research foundations, and charities as well as in universities.
If you choose to work as a researcher in a university, here are some of the roles you may come across during your search:
- Research Assistant
- Research Technician
- Postdoctoral Research Fellow/Associate
- Research Engineer
- Research Scientist
- Research Associate/Fellow
- Lecturer/Senior Lecturer
Funding for information systems research comes from a wide range of sources. Projects based in universities are often joint-funded through national and multinational companies, public bodies, government departments, and global funding councils. To find out more about the types of information systems research projects currently receiving funding visit: UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
Find research jobs in information systems here.
Salaries
Salaries in computer sciences research vary depending on the field and specific activities of the university. However, as a general rule, postdoctoral researchers and research associates can expect to start on a salary of around £30,000 to £39,999 p.a.
Ph.D. Studentships
Research jobs in information systems require candidates to have a Ph.D. Undertaking doctoral studies will train you in the advanced research techniques and methods required for an academic research career and a doctorate will also give your application the edge in the commercial sector. Ph.D. studentships in information systems are widely available, particularly in areas relating to data science, machine learning and information security.
A Ph.D. takes around 3-5 years to complete; most are fully funded and come with a stipend in the range of £15,000 and £17,000 p.a.
Find Ph.D. studentships related to information systems here.
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