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Quantum Computing Researchers

Computer & Mathematicalmediumaugment
BLS 2024-34: +22%
Median Wage: $145,080
Employment: 8K

Overall Exposure

35+13

2025 vs 2023

Theoretical Exposure

53

What AI could do

Observed Exposure

18

What AI actually does

Automation Risk Score

16

Displacement risk

3-Year Outlook (2025 → 2028)

Projected changes in AI automation metrics over the next 3 years based on estimated data.

Overall Exposure

35→51
+16

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Theoretical Exposure

53→69
+16

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Observed Exposure

18→33
+15

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Automation Risk

16→25
+9

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Exposure Metrics (2023 - 2028)

Detailed Metrics Table

YearOverallTheoreticalObservedRiskData Type
20232240810actual
202428461213actual
202535531816actual
202641592319estimated
202746642822estimated
202851693325estimated

Task Breakdown

Design and simulate quantum algorithms
38%β 0.5
Develop quantum error correction codes
25%β 0.5
Publish research papers and present findings
42%β 0.5
Benchmark quantum hardware performance
55%β 1
Collaborate with industry partners on applications
15%β 0

About This Occupation

If you work as a Quantum Computing Researcher, AI is reshaping your profession. With an automation risk of 16/100 and overall exposure at 35%, this role faces medium transformation. The highest-impact area is benchmark quantum hardware performance at 55% automation. This is classified as an 'augment' role. BLS projects +22% growth through 2034. The deeply theoretical nature of this work keeps displacement risk low, but AI-assisted simulation is accelerating research cycles.

Frequently Asked Questions

With an automation risk score of 16%, Quantum Computing Researchers has a low risk of AI replacement. Most tasks in this role require skills that are difficult for AI to replicate, such as complex decision-making, physical dexterity, or deep interpersonal interaction. AI is more likely to serve as a supportive tool.

The AI automation risk score for Quantum Computing Researchers is 16% (2025 data). Overall AI exposure is 35%, with 53% theoretical exposure and 18% observed exposure. The risk trend from 2023 to 2025 is +6 points.

The tasks with the highest automation potential for Quantum Computing Researchers are: Benchmark quantum hardware performance (55%), Publish research papers and present findings (42%), Design and simulate quantum algorithms (38%). These rates reflect how much of each task current AI systems can handle, based on research data from Anthropic and academic sources.

The BLS projects +22% employment change for Quantum Computing Researchers from 2024 to 2034. Combined with an overall AI exposure of 35%, this occupation is experiencing both traditional labor market shifts and AI-driven transformation. Workers should monitor both employment trends and AI capability growth.

Since AI primarily augments capabilities in this role, professionals in Quantum Computing Researchers should embrace AI as a productivity multiplier. Focus on learning to use AI tools effectively, developing higher-order analytical and creative skills, and positioning yourself as someone who can leverage AI to deliver greater value.