How to Become an AI Researcher? | Everything You Need to Know

AI, a part of computer science doesn’t only make easier human beings’ daily life but also provides an option to create an exciting career with it. Nowadays, the demand for AI (Artificial Intelligence) engineers and researchers are getting higher and they have a pretty handsome salary as well. 

Are you willing to have a career with AI and want to become a researcher? Then this article can help you to prepare yourself to make yourself perfect for becoming a great AI researcher.

In this article, we have discussed the skills that you should acquire and the steps that you will need to become an AI researcher. So, be with us till the end and prepare yourself to be the next successful AI researcher. Let’s begin then!

Skills that You will Need to Have to Become a Successful AI Researcher or Scientist or Engineer

Always remember that skills are the key to success. It doesn’t matter what kind of work you are doing, dedication and set of skills will take you to a different level. That’s why it’s mandatory to achieve skills as well as provide pure dedication.

Here we have shared a few skills, by achieving them, you can have a concrete solid foundation of your journey to become an AI researcher.

• You must have fluency in various programming languages. 
• Strong knowledge of algorithms. One of the important things of AI is the algorithm.
• Brainstormer with critical thinking ability.
• A mathematical expert or you can say Pythagoras (Jokes apart).  

Start acquiring these skills from your high school or college days. Always remember, self-learning let a person learn the best thing in the best way.

What are the Steps You Should Follow to Become an AI Researcher 

Becoming a researcher is not a matter of a cup of tea. You will need to be dedicated, research-oriented, and have a strong foundation of knowledge. The same thing goes for an AI researcher. If you are willing to see yourself as an AI researcher then you will need to go through the following steps.

Step 1: Achieve a Degree in AI Related Subject or Computer Science

First, you will need to enroll yourself in an AI-related dept or in Computer Science. From here, the journey will begin. You will start concreting the foundation of the journey from here. Complete the bachelor’s degree and if you want you can do a Master’s degree or Ph.D. 

Step 2: Start Gathering Experience and Enhance Your Network

While pursuing your bachelor’s degree, during that time, start gathering experience. Go to AI competitions, participate, and learn things. Through this, you will slowly get some experience and the projects will help you in the future.

Besides this, start attending AI-related seminars and conferences. Connect yourself with the communities and always seek a good mentor. A good mentor can teach you many things.

Step 3: Have a Good Portfolio and Research Work History

Now, build a rich portfolio with your experience, achievements, and degrees. Having a good portfolio will add more valuation to your profile. While pursuing your degree, do some research, publish papers, and if you could, increase the number of publications. It will boost your portfolio to the next level. 

Step 4: Start Seeking Working Opportunities with AI

After achieving all three steps, now it’s time to start seeking a job in the AI research field. Find a suitable one, apply, and start your journey as an AI researcher.

Bonus Tips

While studying, seeking a job, or working as an AI researcher, always stay current on trends that are related to AI. It will help you to learn new things as well as it will help you to upgrade yourself with time. Additionally, having certificates from IBM’s Watson or Google’s TensorFlow can add more value to your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (FAQs)

How much does an AI researcher make?

On average, an AI researcher makes $63 per hour. About $2500 per week, around $10,000 per month, and $120,000 per year. The number can vary, and it may increase or decrease.

Do I need Ph.D. to do AI research?

Having a Ph.D. degree can add more value but it’s not mandatory for being an AI researcher. After completing the undergrad, you can start working as an AI researcher.  

Can I become an AI researcher without a degree?

Having a degree can put you ahead of others in the AI research field. However, you can be an AI researcher without a degree but you may face issues while seeking a job.

Are AI researchers in demand?

If you have asked this question a few years ago then the answer would be no. But, nowadays, professions that are related to AI including AI research are in great demand and you can have a satisfactory career with it. 

Conclusion

Lastly, creating a career in AI is beneficial. With it, you can have a bright future ahead. So, follow the guideline that we have mentioned earlier and create a tremendous career as an AI researcher. Wish you luck for your bright future!