Position: Senior Researcher – Computational Social Science
Location: Microsoft Research NYC
Are you driven by curiosity and a passion for uncovering how people, data, and technology intersect? Do you thrive in an environment where experimentation meets real-world impact? If so, we invite you to join the Computational Social Science group at Microsoft Research NYC, where your expertise will shape cutting-edge research and innovation.
About the Role
At Microsoft Research NYC, we’re on a mission to redefine computational social science. As a Senior Researcher, you’ll have the freedom to explore bold ideas and design transformative experiments that influence the field. Collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry to uncover insights, develop groundbreaking tools, and contribute to products that impact millions globally.
You’ll work alongside leading researchers Dan Goldstein, Jake Hofman, and David Rothschild, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across our NYC lab and beyond, including groups focused on:
- FATE (Fairness, Accountability, Transparency, and Ethics in AI)
- Economics and Computation
- Machine Learning and AI Systems
What You’ll Do
- Innovate: Design and execute original research in computational social science, leveraging your expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and programming.
- Collaborate: Partner with top-tier researchers, engineers, and product teams to bring your ideas to life.
- Impact: Shape the future of online experimentation and social science by publishing at top research venues and influencing real-world applications.
- Lead: Mentor, inspire, and drive diversity and inclusion in the research community.
Why Microsoft Research?
We’re not just a research organization—we’re a platform for innovation and impact. Here’s what makes us unique:
- Resources Beyond Limits: Access unparalleled data sources, generous experimentation budgets, and state-of-the-art tools.
- Interdisciplinary Synergy: Collaborate across disciplines to solve complex problems with global implications.
- Academic Freedom Meets Real-World Impact: Pursue independent research while contributing to Microsoft’s mission to empower every person and organization to achieve more.
- Culture of Inclusion: Be part of a supportive, diverse, and collaborative community that values respect, growth, and integrity.
What We’re Looking For
Required Qualifications:
- Doctorate in a social science, mathematical, or computational field (or equivalent experience).
- Proven programming skills, demonstrated through publications, source code, or coursework.
- A strong publication record as a lead author or key contributor in top research venues.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience designing and running large-scale online experiments.
- Active participation in the scientific community, with contributions to top conferences or journals.
- The ability to thrive in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.
How to Apply
Join us in reshaping the future of computational social science. Submit your application, including:
- Your CV
- Contact Information for 2+ Referees (e.g., dissertation advisor, senior collaborators).
- Two Writing Samples: Showcase your best work—journal articles, conference papers, or equivalent.
- A Research Statement (min. 2 pages): Highlight your research achievements, future goals, and plans for mentoring or fostering diversity in the field.
