microsoft
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JOB DESCRIPTION
Microsoft Research’s AI and Systems Reliability group focuses on advancing foundational and applied research that strengthens the reliability, safety, and robustness of modern computing systems. As artificial intelligence becomes deeply integrated into personal computing, cloud platforms, and data centers, this team works to bring formal rigor, verification, and reliability guarantees to AI-powered systems used at global scale.
In this role, you will define and lead a research agenda focused on AI and systems reliability, contributing original research that spans theory and real-world impact. You will collaborate closely with researchers, engineers, and product teams to transform research ideas into technologies that influence Microsoft products and services worldwide. The role combines deep technical research with cross-disciplinary collaboration in a fast-evolving AI landscape.
You will invent and explore new research directions in areas such as distributed systems reliability, machine learning systems, formal methods and verification, and dependable AI infrastructure. You will design and execute high-impact research projects, publish in top-tier conferences and journals, and communicate findings clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. The role also involves working closely with other Microsoft teams to translate research outcomes into practical tools, frameworks, and production systems.
Candidates are expected to demonstrate strong research independence, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment. You should be comfortable tackling ambiguous problems, defining success metrics where standards do not yet exist, and balancing long-term research with applied impact.
Minimum qualifications include a PhD or equivalent research experience in Computer Science or Computer Engineering, with a strong background in systems, AI, or reliability-related research. A strong publication record in leading conferences or journals is expected, along with solid foundations in distributed systems, cloud systems, or machine learning systems. Clear technical communication skills and experience collaborating across research and engineering teams are essential.
Preferred experience includes research in areas such as distributed systems, formal methods, verification, high-performance computing, operating systems, programming languages, storage systems, ML systems, or systems security. Experience working in interdisciplinary research environments and influencing real-world systems is highly valued.
The typical base salary range for this role across the United States is between $119,800 and $234,700 per year. For locations such as the San Francisco Bay Area or New York City metropolitan area, the range is between $158,400 and $258,000 per year. Compensation may also include additional benefits and other forms of compensation depending on role eligibility.
This is a full-time, on-site research position at Microsoft Research in Redmond, Washington. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled, with the role expected to remain open at least until early January 2026.