The Augmented Learning and Reasoning (ALR) group in Microsoft Research utilizes large-scale interaction data to enhance our understanding of LFM-based AI systems and develop algorithmic innovations to improve their performance. This includes work on personalization, recommendations, prompt optimization, evaluation, data generation, fine-tuning, and alignment. We work closely with various Microsoft product teams that create and deploy copilots to drive cutting-edge research for large-scale AI systems using ML and AI methodologies.  

We are looking for researchers who have a strong interest in pushing the boundaries of learning and reasoning with foundation models and a proven ability to conduct impactful independent research. You will develop innovative machine learning techniques and shape/advance the research agenda of the team while collaborating widely across the organization. 

We are particularly interested in candidates who are passionate about (1) improving the performance of generative AI models, (2) enhancing user experiences in copilot systems, and (3) discovering simple, generalizable ideas that work well in practice and at scale. Candidates should have experience in one or more of the following areas: Foundation Models, Deep Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Multi-Objective Optimization, Natural Language Processing, Interactive Learning, Behavioral Modeling, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Search/Recommendation

Responsibilities

As a researcher at Microsoft Research, you will undertake cutting-edge research in collaboration with other researchers, engineers, and product groups. Specifically, you will: 

• Identify and articulate problems that are academically novel and may directly/indirectly impact business opportunities.
• Research and develop an understanding of the state-of-the-art tools, technologies, and methods being used in the research community and product groups. 
• Advance a research agenda through one or more projects, yielding new algorithms, prototypes, theories, tools, methods, or collections of data.
• Develop and deploy computing technologies that uphold trustworthiness, robustness, privacy, values, and ethical considerations.
• Collaborate with other relevant researchers or groups to advance a research agenda.

Qualifications

Required qualifications: 

• PhD (or currently pursuing) in Computer Science or related field with a focus on Machine Learning and/or Artificial Intelligence. 

Additional or Preferred Qualifications: 

• PhD in relevant field AND 2+ years related research experience.
• Research ability demonstrated by an established publication record in top-tier venues.
• Demonstrable ability to develop/shape original research agendas.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary team.
• Proficient oral and written communication skills.
• Passion for AI research.

Research Sciences IC4 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $117,200 - $229,200 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 $153,600 - $250,200 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

Microsoft will accept applications and processes offers for these roles on an ongoing basis.

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment 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 ordinances.  We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request via the Accommodation request form.

Benefits/perks listed below may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Microsoft and the country where you work.

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