Senior Researcher - Security - Microsoft Research

Job ID: 200050367Posted: 2026-08-21Location: United States, Washington, RedmondSalary: USD $119,800 - $234,700 per yearEmployment type: Full-TimeWork site: 3 days / week in-officeRole type: Individual ContributorTravel: Less than 25%Profession: Research, Applied, & Data SciencesDiscipline: Research SciencesCompany: MicrosoftOverviewThe Security Research Group at Microsoft Research works on the security and privacy problems created by the shift to AI systems. Our current areas include software and systems security, zero-knowledge proofs, and data-driven security. Our work ranges from foundational results to technologies that ship in Microsoft products. In this role as a Senior Researcher - Security, you'll be on a team that build things. Our researchers write code, stand up systems, and see implementations through — papers matter, and so does working software. Most of our projects have several people on them, so collaboration is how the group gets its work done: we share problems early, give each other real feedback, and lend time freely. It's a collaborative space, and we like it that way. #MSRR #ResearchAt Microsoft, our mission—to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more—guides how we partner with customers to deliver trusted, impactful solutions. With a growth mindset culture, we innovate responsibly and measure success by shared progress—people, teams, and customers. Join us to do meaningful work that changes the world and helps shape what’s next for everyone.ResponsibilitiesAs a Senior Researcher, you will: Conduct original research in security and privacy, and publish at leading venuesDesign, prototype, and implement systems that demonstrate your ideasCollaborate with colleagues across the group on shared projectsWork with Microsoft product teams to bring research into shipping technologies QualificationsRequired Qualifications Doctorate in relevant fieldOR Master's Degree in relevant field AND 3+ years related research experienceOR Bachelor's Degree in relevant field AND 4+ years related research experienceOR equivalent experience. Preferred Qualifications A PhD (or equivalent experience) in computer science or a related field, with a research background in security, machine learning, data mining, systems, or a closely related area.Publications at security, privacy, or systems venues Hands-on technical depth — you prototype, implement, and debug your own ideas Experience doing research as part of a team Excellent written and spoken communication Research Sciences IC4 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $119,800 - $234,700 per year. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $160,200 - $261,000 per year. Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.