Job Opportunity: Principal Researcher – Generative AI at Microsoft Research AI Frontiers Lab

Microsoft Research (MSR)'s AI Frontiers Lab is excited to invite qualified applicants for the position of Principal Researcher – Generative AI. Our mission is to enhance the Pareto frontier of Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities, efficiency, and safety through innovative work on foundation models and learning agent platforms.

Our lab focuses on high-impact projects such as:

• Small Language Models (e.g., Phi, Orca)
• Multi-Agent AI (e.g., AutoGen)

Position Overview

We are looking for a Principal Researcher – Generative AI to lead and advance technologies in Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs). In this role, you will be at the forefront of developing, improving, and exploring the capabilities of Generative AI models, contributing significantly to state-of-the-art technologies and offering practical solutions for real-world problems.

Key Research Areas Include:

• Pre-training: Focusing on small language and multimodal models
• Alignment and Post-training: Techniques like instruction tuning and reinforcement learning from feedback
• Continual Learning: Enabling LLMs to evolve, adapt, and learn from previous experiences and human interactions
• Specialization: Customizing LLMs to meet specific application requirements
• Orchestration and Multi-agent Systems: Automated orchestration between multiple agents with human feedback and oversight

Why Join MSR?

MSR provides an invigorating environment for cutting-edge multidisciplinary research with access to a diverse array of real-world problems and data. You will find opportunities for experimentation and real-world impact, an open publication policy, and strong connections to top academic institutions globally.

Microsoft's mission is to empower every person and organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees, we unite with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to achieve our shared goals. By embracing values of respect, integrity, and accountability, we foster a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive both at work and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Conduct groundbreaking research in collaboration with fellow researchers, engineers, and product groups
• Contribute to research breakthroughs and the realization of your ideas in globally-used products and services
• Embody and promote our culture and values

Qualifications

Required:

• Doctorate in Computer Science or a relevant field with 3+ years of related research experience, OR equivalent experience.

Preferred:

• Doctorate in Computer Science or a relevant field with 5+ years of related research experience, OR equivalent experience.
• Experience in publishing academic papers as a lead author or vital contributor in the field of Artificial Intelligence.
• Participation in top conferences within the relevant research domain.
• Proven ability to define ambitious, original research agendas.
• Strong collaboration, effective communication skills, and the capability to technically lead a multidisciplinary team.
• A keen interest in real-world applications and impact.

Compensation and Benefits

The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $133,600 - $256,800 per year. In the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the range is USD $173,200 - $282,200 per year. Some roles are eligible for additional benefits and compensation. For more details, visit our .

Application Process

Microsoft accepts applications and processes offers for these roles on an ongoing basis. Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and