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Microsoft Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Research Software Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$229K/yr

Overview Microsoft Research (MSR) is a multidisciplinary global organization working to create scientific knowledge and deliver innovation that leads to positive human impact at scale. To envision ...

Principal Research Software Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$151K - $202K/yr

Overview Microsoft Research (MSR) is a multidisciplinary global organization creating scientific knowledge and delivering innovation for positive human impact at scale. We work with scientific ...

Principal Applied Researcher

Redmond, WA · On-site

$188K - $304K/yr

Overview The Data and AI team in Microsoft's Developer Division is working on the future of AI for ... We are a diverse, entrepreneurial and multi-disciplinary group of scientists, researchers and ...

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Microsoft Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do microsoft researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for microsoft researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration exist for Microsoft researchers?

Microsoft Researchers often have the chance to work alongside engineers, product managers, and other specialists across various fields, such as artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and cloud computing. The organization encourages interdisciplinary projects, allowing researchers to contribute their expertise to innovative products and services. This collaborative environment not only enhances research outcomes but also fosters professional growth and networking. Such cross-functional teamwork is a key part of the research culture at Microsoft, enabling researchers to see their work have a real-world impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microsoft researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microsoft Researcher, you typically need a strong background in computer science, mathematics, or a related field, often supported by a PhD and a robust research portfolio. Proficiency with programming languages (such as Python, C++, or Java), data analysis tools, and experience with research publishing platforms is essential. Creativity, collaboration, and effective communication are standout soft skills for generating innovative ideas and working within multidisciplinary teams. These skills enable researchers to drive technological advances, publish influential work, and support Microsoft's mission of inventing cutting-edge solutions.

What is the difference between Microsoft Researcher vs Data Scientist?

AspectMicrosoft ResearcherData Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in CS, AI, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in CS, Statistics, or related fields; often a PhD for senior roles
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, innovation teams, focus on R&DBusiness settings, data analysis, model development
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, research institutions, academiaTech, finance, healthcare, e-commerce
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Microsoft Researcher primarily focuses on innovative research and development in technology and AI, often working in labs or research teams. In contrast, Data Scientists analyze data to derive insights, build models, and support business decisions. While both roles require strong technical skills and often similar educational backgrounds, their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

What is a Microsoft researcher?

Microsoft Researchers are professionals who work at Microsoft Research, the research division of Microsoft, conducting cutting-edge research in computer science and related fields. They focus on advancing technology by exploring innovations in artificial intelligence, machine learning, human-computer interaction, and other areas. Their work often leads to new products, services, and academic publications, influencing both industry and academia. Microsoft Researchers collaborate with other experts globally and contribute to solving complex scientific and technological challenges.
More about Microsoft Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Microsoft Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Microsoft Researcher job openings:
What states have the most Microsoft Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Microsoft Researcher jobs include:
Infographic showing various Microsoft Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Senior Researcher - Deep Learning - Microsoft Research

Microsoft

Redmond, WA • On-site

$160K - $261K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Microsoft rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 243 rated software companies


Job description

Overview
The Deep Learning Group at Microsoft Research Redmond advances the state of the art on deep learning, foundation models and their applications to neuro-symbolic reasoning, software engineering, program synthesis, question answering, multi-modal intelligence, interactive AI, and natural language processing. We regularly publish in top-tier computer science venues and collaborate with Microsoft product groups including E+D, Core AI, and Bing.
We are seeking a Senior Researcher - Deep Learning with a demonstrated ability for independent research and a record of publications on deep learning or its applications. An ideal candidate is passionate about the next generation of deep learning technologies, foundation models and their real-world impact on computer vision, natural language processing, and multi-modality intelligence. We are particularly interested in candidates who thrive in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment and can lead independent research in our areas of focus.
#MSRR #Research
At 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.
Responsibilities
  • As a researcher at Microsoft Research, you lead your own research agenda and collaborate with other researchers, engineers, and product groups.
  • As a member of a world-class research organization, you are expected to aim at research breakthroughs in the field and will be given an opportunity to realize your ideas in products and services used worldwide.

Qualifications
Required qualifications
  • Doctorate in relevant field OR Master's Degree in relevant field AND 3+ years related research experience OR Bachelor's Degree in relevant field AND 4+ years related research experience.
    • OR equivalent experience.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Doctorate in relevant field AND 3+ years related research experience
    • OR Master's Degree in relevant field AND 6+ years related research experience
    • OR Bachelor's Degree in relevant field AND 8+ years related research experience OR equivalent experience.
    • OR equivalent experience.
  • Research ability demonstrated by a strong publication record of top-tier journal and conference publications or submitted/accepted papers in top venues.
  • Demonstrable ability to develop original research agendas.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary team.
  • Active participation in the scientific community.
  • Passionate about AI research.
  • Experience publishing academic papers as a lead author or essential contributor.

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:
https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-corporate-pay
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.

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About Microsoft

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our infrastructure is comprised of a large global portfolio of more than 100 datacenters and 1 million servers. Our foundation is built upon and managed by a team of subject matter experts working to support services for more than 1 billion customers and 20 million businesses in over 90 countries worldwide. With environmental sustainability and optimization at the forefront of our datacenter design and operations, we continue to grow and evolve as we meet the ever-changing business demands that hold Microsoft as a world-class cloud provider.

Industry

Computer and computer peripheral equipment and software wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Redmond, WA, US

Year founded

1975

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