Sr. Principal Security Researcher - Wildfire

Palo Alto Networks • San Jose, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Security Researcher on the WildFire Team, you will play a crucial role in developing automated defenses against emerging and sophisticated threats and malware. Part of the Cloud Delivered Security Service (CDSS) organization, our team is dedicated to innovating and delivering cutting-edge security services. Your expertise will be instrumental in translating deep threat knowledge into scalable, productized detection capabilities to combat cyber threats.

Requirements

• 10+ years of deep technical experience in malware analysis (static/dynamic) and reverse engineering.
• Deep experience with OS internals (Windows/Linux/macOS).
• Proven track record of designing high-performance, distributed systems for automated threat analysis at scale.
• Proficiency in at least one of the following programming languages: Python, Golang, C++.
• A self-starting “can-do” attitude with the ability to lead cross-functional projects independently while mentoring junior researchers.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills.
• BS/MS in Computer Science or related fields with security research experience.

Nice To Haves

• Experience building or fine-tuning AI agents to autonomously triage alerts, summarize malware behavior, or generate detection content via LLMs.
• Experience with public cloud development (e.g., GCP, AWS, Azure).
• PhD in Cybersecurity or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Lead the deep-dive analysis of emerging malware and advanced persistent threats.
• Maintain an authoritative command of the global threat landscape to preemptively identify shifts in adversary tactics.
• Architect and validate next-generation detection methodologies, leveraging different approaches to build automated systems.
• Drive the full software development lifecycle for scalable, extensible prevention systems from architecture to deployment.
• Act as the primary conduit between Research and Engineering teams, ensuring discoveries are integrated into product features.
• Represent the company as a subject matter expert through high-impact white papers, industry conferences, and patent filings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees