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Computational Social Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prolific

Research Scientist

PhD in a relevant quantitative field such as psychology, research methodology, computational social science, statistics, economics, social science, or similar * Strong grounding in online research ...

Leidos

Senior Data Scientist

Rockville, MD · Hybrid

$131K - $237K/yr

Bachelor's, Master's, or equivalent graduate degree in a quantitative or analytical field (Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, Computational Social Science, etc.

Improbable LLC

Applied Scientist

Arlington, VA

Demonstrated experience with agent-based modeling, micro-simulation, computational social science, or modeling socio-technical systems. * Experience using game engines such as Unity and Unreal.

NTENT

Research Scientist

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

Graduate degree (PhD preferred) in Computer Science, Linguistics, Statistics, Computational Social Sciences or other quantitative field. * 3+ years of professional experience or equivalent experience ...

Leidos

Senior Data Scientist

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

$131K - $237K/yr

Bachelor's, Master's, or equivalent graduate degree in a quantitative or analytical field (Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, Computational Social Science, etc.

Improbable LLC

Applied Scientist

Arlington, VA

Demonstrated experience with agent-based modeling, micro-simulation, computational social science, or modeling socio-technical systems. * Experience using game engines such as Unity and Unreal.

Leidos

Senior Data Scientist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Bachelor's, Master's, or equivalent graduate degree in a quantitative or analytical field (Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, Computational Social Science, etc.

Leidos

Data Scientist

Bethesda, MD

S. Degree in a quantitative or analytical field such as Computer Science, Mathematics, Economics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, or Computational Social Science with 2+ years of experience; or ...

NTENT

Research Scientist

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

Graduate degree (PhD preferred) in Computer Science, Linguistics, Statistics, Computational Social Sciences or other quantitative field. * 3+ years of professional experience or equivalent experience ...

VMD Corp

Data Scientist - TS/SCI

Bethesda, MD · On-site

S. Degree in a quantitative or analytical field such as Computer Science, Mathematics, Economics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, or Computational Social Science with 2+ years of experience; or ...

Leidos

Data Scientist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

S. Degree in a quantitative or analytical field such as Computer Science, Mathematics, Economics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, or Computational Social Science with 2+ years of experience; or ...

Xcelerate Solutions

Be Seen First

Data Scientist - TS/SCI

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

S. Degree in a quantitative or analytical field such as Computer Science, Mathematics, Economics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, or Computational Social Science with 2+ years of experience; or ...

VMD Corp

Data Scientist - TS/SCI

Bethesda, MD · On-site +1

S. Degree in a quantitative or analytical field such as Computer Science, Mathematics, Economics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, or Computational Social Science with 2+ years of experience; or ...

NorthEastern

Finance Administrator

Boston, MA · On-site

$23.37 - $32.14/hr

Cultural studies, Governance, and Globalization; and Network Science, Computational Social Science, Digital Humanities, and Data Ethics. Minimum Qualifications * Bachelor's degree required * Minimum ...

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Computational Social Science information

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How much do computational social science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for computational social science in the United States is $54.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.88 and $73.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is computational social science?

Computational social science is an interdisciplinary field that uses computational methods, such as data analysis, simulations, and modeling, to study social phenomena and human behavior. It combines tools from computer science, statistics, and social sciences to analyze large-scale social data, like social media activity, online interactions, or census records. This approach helps researchers uncover patterns and trends that would be difficult or impossible to detect using traditional social science methods alone.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computational Social Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computational Social Scientist, you need a solid background in social science research methods, statistics, and programming—often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with data analysis tools such as Python, R, machine learning libraries, and experience with large datasets or social network analysis software is typical. Strong analytical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and effective communication skills help you interpret results and convey insights to diverse audiences. These competencies are crucial for generating impactful, data-driven insights into complex social phenomena and informing decision-making.

What is the difference between Computational Social Science vs Data Scientist?

AspectComputational Social ScienceData Scientist
Required CredentialsSocial science background, programming skillsStatistics, programming, domain knowledge
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, academia, social research firmsTech companies, finance, healthcare
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, social research organizationsCorporations, startups, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Computational Social Science focuses on analyzing social phenomena using computational methods rooted in social science theories, often within academic or research settings. Data Scientists, however, apply statistical and machine learning techniques to large datasets across various industries. While both roles require programming skills, Computational Social Science emphasizes social theory and research, whereas Data Science centers on data analysis and business insights.

What types of data sources and analytical methods are commonly used in Computational Social Science roles?

In Computational Social Science positions, professionals typically work with large and diverse datasets, including social media feeds, digital communication records, surveys, and online behavioral data. Analytical methods often involve a mix of quantitative techniques such as network analysis, machine learning, natural language processing, and agent-based modeling. Collaborative projects may require integrating insights from computer science, sociology, and statistics, making interdisciplinary teamwork a frequent part of the role. Adapting to evolving data privacy guidelines and ensuring ethical data use are also important daily considerations.
More about Computational Social Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Computational Social Science jobs? Cities with the most Computational Social Science job openings:
What states have the most Computational Social Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Computational Social Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Computational Social Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Computational Social Science jobs are:
Computational Social Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computational Social Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 70% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,249 per year, or $54.9 per hour.
Research Scientist

Research Scientist

Prolific

Remote

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Research Scientist
Team: Sciences
Location: East Coast Time Zone Only
Prolific
Prolific isn't just powering AI development-we're redefining it. While foundational AI technologies are becoming commoditized, Polific's human data infrastructure delivers the high-quality, diverse data needed to differentiate the next generation of AI models. Through our platform, we empower researchers and companies to access a global pool of participants, ensuring cutting-edge AI research and training grounded in ethical and inclusive practices.
The role
Prolific is a leading research platform with an established research operation in the UK and US. In 2026 we are investing in levelling up our Research Sciences team. We're hiring a Research Scientist to own a dedicated research portfolio focused on some of the most pressing questions in online research today, including data quality, online methodologies, and the impact of AI on how research gets done.
You'll sit within the Research Sciences team, reporting to the team's lead researcher. This is an individual contributor role where you'll design and lead your own research agenda, collaborate closely with the rest of the sciences team, and build partnerships with academic and industry collaborators. You'll also be expected to get your work in front of the right audiences at conferences, journals, in the press, and through Prolific's own channels. This isn't a role for someone who needs a well-worn path. We want someone who generates more ideas than they can execute, moves quickly, and thrives when the next interesting problem is always around the corner.
What you'll be doing
  • Leading a dedicated research portfolio: Designing and executing primary research on subjects related to data quality, online sampling methodologies, and the effects of AI on online research (both independently and in collaboration with the wider team)
  • Producing high-grade, publishable research: Conducting work that meets the standard expected at leading academic venues and industry conferences, contributes meaningfully to live debates in the field, and is publishable in high IF journals
  • Building and managing external partnerships: Cultivating relationships with academic institutions and industry partners, identifying collaboration opportunities, and managing those relationships through to research outputs
  • Presenting and disseminating your work: Representing Prolific at academic conferences and industry events, and working with our marketing team to maximise the reach and impact of research findings
  • Contributing to the wider sciences agenda: Our current work spans data quality, representativeness, synthetic data, and methodological innovation. We're looking for someone who can help shape this agenda, not just execute within it

Who we're looking for
Core requirements:
  • PhD in a relevant quantitative field such as psychology, research methodology, computational social science, statistics, economics, social science, or similar
  • Strong grounding in online research methods, with experience in at least some of: online sampling methodologies, data quality assessment, non-probability sampling, or synthetic data approaches
  • Demonstrated ability to lead research projects end-to-end, with a track record of publications, conference presentations, or equivalent public outputs
  • Strong quantitative research skills, including experimental design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation, with proficiency in tools such as R, Python, or Qualtrics
  • A self-starter who is comfortable executing a research programme with limited hand-holding and genuine intellectual curiosity about where online research is heading
  • High output and comfortable working at pace, you get things done, ship work, and don't wait for perfect conditions
  • An ideas-first mentality: you keep a close eye on the latest developments across relevant fields, and you're quick to spot their implications for online research and translate them into concrete directions
  • Based in the US East Coast or UK

Nice to have:
  • Postdoctoral or industry research experience (one or the other is expected if industry experience is limited)
  • Familiarity with online panel platforms and the trade-offs of working with them
  • Experience working across academic-industry partnerships
  • Comfort with on-the-record commentary or media engagement

Why Prolific is a great place to work
At Prolific, you'll have the chance to shape the future of human-AI collaboration by empowering participants to contribute to cutting-edge AI research and training. You'll work in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment that values impact, inclusion, and innovation.
We offer competitive compensation, benefits, and flexible remote working options. Be part of a team that's pioneering a responsible AI landscape, ensuring that the technology of tomorrow understands and respects the full spectrum of human experience.
Links to more information on Prolific
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Privacy Statement
By submitting your application, you agree that Prolific may collect your personal data for recruiting and global organisation planning. Prolific's Candidate Privacy Notice explains what personal information Prolific may process, where Prolific may process your personal information, its purposes for processing your personal information, and the rights you can exercise over Prolific use of your personal information.

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