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Job Title


Principal Researcher - Systems & Networking - Microsoft Research


Company : Microsoft Canada


Location : Vancouver, British Columbia


Created : 2026-01-06


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Overview Microsoft Research Asia - Vancouver lab , located in the vibrant city of Vancouver, BC, Canada, our lab represents Microsoft Research Asias exciting expansion into the Asia-Pacific region. Were on a mission to transform the future of artificial intelligence by bridging the gap between cutting-edge general AI and the specialized, real-world applications that drive meaningful impact. We are currently seeking a Principal Researcher in the area of Systems and Networking with a keen interest in exploring advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven methods for systems, thereby expediting overall system innovation. At the Vancouver lab, we focus on deeply integrating intelligent systems across every layer of computing-from infrastructure to the physical environment. Our goal is to solve complex, real-world challenges with precision, scalability, and cost-efficiency. This means working at the intersection of AI, human interaction, and environmental context through a dynamic, co-evolutionary process. If you''re passionate about pushing the boundaries of AI and want to be part of a team thats shaping the future of intelligent systems, we invite you to explore opportunities with us. This is an opportunity to drive an ambitious research agenda while collaborating with diverse teams to push for novel applications of those areas. Microsofts 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. In alignment with our Microsoft values, we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment for all employees to positively impact our culture every day. Responsibilities Conduct research on state-of-the-art AI-driven system methods and technologies to identify opportunities for system innovation and acceleration. Develop and implement new methodologies, techniques, and algorithms for improving the performance, efficiency, and scalability of AI-driven systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including hardware and software engineers, data scientists, and product managers, to drive the development and deployment of innovative AI-driven system solutions. Stay current with the latest trends, research, and developments in AI, machine learning, and system architecture to ensure our systems remain at the forefront of innovation. Evaluate the performance of AI-driven systems and provide recommendations for improvement and optimization. Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals, conferences, and other relevant venues, and present research results to internal and external stakeholders. Mentor and guide researchers and engineers in their research and development efforts. Collaborate with industry partners and academic institutions to drive joint research projects and initiatives. Embody our culture and values. Qualifications Required Qualifications: Doctorate in relevant field AND 3+ years related research experience OR equivalent experience. 3+ years experience in research related to Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning. Preferred Qualifications: Doctorate in relevant field AND 5+ years related research experience OR equivalent experience. Experience publishing academic papers as a lead author or essential contributor. Experience participating in a top conference in relevant research domain. Background in systems and networking, including experience with machine learning system, database, and networking technologies. Deep knowledge about the latest technical advancements such as Agent Systems, Vector Database, and ML Systems A track record of published research in the field of AI-driven system innovation. Research Sciences IC5 - The typical base pay range for this role across Canada is CAD $142,400 - CAD $257,500 per year. Find additional pay information here: Research Sciences IC5 - L''chelle salariale de base typique pour ce rle dans l''ensemble du Canada est de 142,400 $ CAD 257,500 $ CAD par anne. Pour plus d''information au sujet de la rmunration, veuillez cliquer ici: Ce poste sera ouvert pendant au moins cinq jours et les candidatures seront acceptes de faon continue jusqu ce que le poste soit pourvu. This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Microsoft est un employeur offrant lgalit daccs lemploi. Tous les candidats qualifis seront pris en considration pour lemploi, sans gard lge, lascendance, la citoyennet, la couleur, aux congs mdicaux ou familiaux, lidentit ou lexpression de genre, aux renseignements gntiques, ltat dimmigration, ltat matrimonial, ltat de sant, lorigine nationale, un ventuel handicap physique ou mental, laffiliation politique, au statut de vtran protg ou au statut militaire, la race, lethnie, la religion, au sexe (y compris la grossesse), lorientation sexuelle ou toute autre caractristique protge par les lois, ordonnances et rglements locaux applicables. Si vous avez besoin daide avec des accommodements religieux et/ou dun accommodement raisonnable en raison dun handicap pendant le processus de candidature, apprenez-en plus sur la demande daccommodement. 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.