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Principal Researcher - Machine Learning & Statistics

Microsoft· Research Sciences
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Cambridge, MA$142.8k - $274.8kFull-timePosted 4d ago

About the role

Principal Researcher position at Microsoft Research New England in Cambridge, MA, focusing on artificial intelligence, machine learning, statistics, and related areas. Role centers on defining and leading an independent research program, producing impactful contributions, mentoring others, and shaping research priorities across MSR.

Responsibilities

  • Define and lead an influential research agenda spanning fundamental and applied work.
  • Provide intellectual leadership across projects and disciplines, initiate collaborations, and shape broader research priorities within Microsoft Research.
  • Produce sustained, field-shaping research contributions; mentor and support the development of other researchers; identify strategic opportunities for research to influence the scientific community, Microsoft products, and society.

Qualifications

  • Doctorate in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Mathematics, Statistics or relevant field AND 3+ years related research experience
  • OR Master's Degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Mathematics, Statistics or relevant field AND 4+ years related research experience
  • OR Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Mathematics, Statistics or relevant field AND 6+ years related research experience
  • OR equivalent experience.

Skills

Required:Independent research program leadershipPublish impactful research
Nice to have:Experience running large-scale experiments with transformers/LLMsLarge-scale ML pipelinesData collection and curation pipelinesCollaboration & communication

Benefits

  • See compensation information: base pay range across the U.S. is USD $142,800 - $274,800 per year; San Francisco Bay Area and NYC ranges USD $188,000 - $304,200 per year.
Last updated Oct 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

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