Join Palo Alto Networks as a Principal Security Researcher (DNS Security)

Company Description

At Palo Alto Networks®, we are committed to being the preferred cybersecurity partner, safeguarding our digital lifestyle. Our vision is a safer and more secure world every day. Built on innovation, we are looking for forward-thinkers passionate about creating the future of cybersecurity.

Our Mission

We start and end with our mission: to be the cybersecurity partner of choice.

Our Approach to Work

We prioritize flexibility and choice in our employee programs, challenging traditional norms. Customized offerings allow our employees to choose what suits them best—from wellbeing support to career growth.

At Palo Alto Networks, we value collaboration and in-person interactions. Our employees typically work from the office three days a week, with two days for flexible arrangements. This setup promotes casual interactions, problem-solving, and trust-building. While future details may change, our goal remains to foster innovation with office-based teamwork.

Job Description: Your Career

As part of our Internet Security Research team, you'll deliver high-quality content to our products to prevent cyberattacks, focusing on DNS security, network security, and privacy protection. We design and maintain detection systems and data infrastructures to safeguard customers against evolving threats.

Your Impact

• Research and track emerging threats, innovating ways to identify malicious indicators such as domains, URLs, IP addresses, and email addresses.
• Design and build scalable, extensible prevention/detection systems.
• Utilize data-driven methods like statistical analysis and machine learning.
• Convert research discoveries into products and research papers.

Qualifications

Your Experience Includes:

• BS/MS in Computer Science or related fields; PhD in Cyber Security or Machine Learning is a plus.
• Creative thinker and team player, passionate about data-driven security research.
• Expertise in DNS and DNS security.
• Strong knowledge of machine learning techniques and algorithms.
• Excellent programming skills in Python, Shell script, Go, or SQL.
• Understanding of core network protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP/HTTPS).
• Experience with modern databases and big data tools (MySQL, MongoDB, Elasticsearch, etc.).
• Comfortable working independently and efficiently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with malware traffic analysis, graph databases, and Google Cloud Platform is a plus.
• Proven success in publications or open-source contributions is a big plus.

Additional Information

The Team

We set industry standards and thrive on challenges. We seek individuals who embrace ambiguity and are excited by new risks.

Our Commitment

We are pioneers who dream big and challenge the status quo in cybersecurity. We need diverse teams innovating together. We offer reasonable accommodations for all qualified individuals with disabilities. Contact us at [email protected] for assistance.

Palo Alto Networks is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and welcome all qualified applicants irrespective of age, color, gender, disability, ancestry, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or other legally protected characteristics. All information shared with us will remain confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Compensation

The compensation for this position depends on qualifications, experience, and work location. The starting base salary ranges from $170,000 to $275,000 per year. The total package may include restricted stock units and a bonus. For more details about our employee benefits, please visit this .