Principal Security Researcher – Identity Threat Detection

About the role

Microsoft Security is looking for a Principal Security Researcher to lead the technical direction of its Identity Threat Detection and Response (ITDR) portfolio. You will shape multi‑quarter research agendas, mentor a high‑performing team, and help protect millions of customers from sophisticated identity‑based attacks.

Key responsibilities

• Define and own the multi‑quarter research strategy for a major area of the identity protection charter.
• Drive multiple concurrent research initiatives, breaking ambiguous problems into tractable workstreams.
• Lead deep investigations of identity‑related data to uncover novel threats and attacker tradecraft.
• Design robust detection logic across the full kill‑chain, improving coverage and resilience to evasion.
• Collaborate with product management, engineering, data science, and peer research teams to influence product strategy and roadmap.
• Represent Microsoft research externally through publications, talks, and industry engagement.

Required profile

• Proven track record as a senior security researcher with deep knowledge of the attacker landscape.
• Experience mentoring and influencing technical teams.
• Ability to translate complex research findings into practical detection solutions.
• Strong communication skills for cross‑functional partnership and external representation.

Required skills

• Generative AI techniques applied to security research.
• Data analysis and interpretation of large identity‑related datasets.
• Design and implementation of detection logic and threat models.

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on one of Microsoft’s most impactful security products.
• Collaborative environment with a growth‑mindset culture.
• Access to cutting‑edge research resources and AI tools.