Principal Applied Scientist

We leverage the most advanced, large language models (LLMs) to develop cutting-edge Copilot experiences. We are hands-on, assist our partner teams in their Machine Learning (ML) efforts and set guidance on best practices through detailed experimentation and research. We have important AI skills like PowerPoint Summary, Q&A, Podcast generation, among others. We have shipped the first fine-tuned model for M365 and are working on multiple fine-tuning scenarios for o3, CUA, and others.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced scientist with expertise in machine learning. As a Principal Applied Scientist in Office AI, you would work in an exciting and fast-paced environment, collaborating closely with teams across the company, including Microsoft Research and various product groups and partner with them to deliver the complete solutions. This will need alignment with senior stakeholders, working together to build custom LLMs and architecture for specific product needs. We value and encourage Inclusivity in the belief that it leads to both great workplaces and great products.

Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Research and develop an understanding of the state-of-the-art tools, technologies, and methods being used in the research community and product groups.
• You will also serve as a team expert on changes in industry trends, products, and other advances, and apply this knowledge to influence product needs.
• Advance research agenda through one or more projects, fine tuning models, yielding new algorithms, prototypes, theories, tools, methods, or collections of data.
• You will review business and product requirements, incorporate research, and provide strategic direction for problem solving. You’ll also ensure scientific rigor, support the development of methods, and apply your expertise to support business impact.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to define project goals, success criteria, and deliverables.
• You will identify and inspire peers and new research talent to join Microsoft, build relationships, and advocate for research initiatives.
• You will share research findings through industry outreach, collaborate with the academic community, and help develop the recruiting pipeline.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Statistics, Econometrics, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or related field AND 8+ years related experience (e.g., statistics, predictive analytics, research) OR Master's Degree in Statistics, Econometrics, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or related field AND 6+ years related experience (e.g., statistics, predictive analytics, research) OR Doctorate in Statistics, Econometrics, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or related field AND 5+ years related experience (e.g., statistics, predictive analytics, research) OR equivalent experience.
• Proficiency in Python and relevant ML libraries (e.g., PyTorch).
  
• 2+ years experience with transformer-based models (e.g., GPT, Llama).
  
• 3+ years experience in coding and design, specifically in the development of AI models for scaled production services.
  
• 3+ years experience in shipping applied research to production, highlighting a track record of combining coding skills with advanced expertise in AI model development.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in Statistics, Econometrics, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or related field AND 12+ years related experience (e.g., statistics, predictive analytics, resea