Principal Applied Scientist / Principal Applied Scientistess

Microsoft Schweiz GmbH - August 6, 2026

Overview

Frontier Tuning is an innovative product aimed at fine-tuning large language models (LLMs) utilizing tenant data, facilitating task-specific agents and solutions. We are a small, agile team dedicated to advancing the state of the art in models for M365 Copilot. Join us in transforming the LLM experience within enterprises.

We are seeking a Principal Applied Scientist with robust research and development skills, eager to create cutting-edge AI products that push technological boundaries. Ideal candidates will possess interest and experience in designing, building, and deploying AI products, engaging with the latest cloud and machine learning technologies, and utilizing customer data to extract insights applicable to broader products.

We cultivate a nurturing environment that supports passionate researchers and engineers in driving technology innovation. We seek individuals who excel in deep thinking, advanced development, and entrepreneurial execution within a collaborative setting.

Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. Together, we adopt 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 foster a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive both at work and beyond.

Responsibilities

  • Design, build, test, and deploy cloud-based AI applications.
  • Build and deploy LLM-based agentic systems.
  • Engage with customers to identify and address their pain points.
  • Document experiments and communicate results across the team.
  • Mentor early-career team members.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Statistics, Econometrics, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or a related field AND 6+ years of related experience (e.g., statistics, predictive analytics, research)
  • OR Master's Degree in a related field AND 4+ years of related experience
  • OR Doctorate in a related field AND 3+ years of related experience
  • OR equivalent experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's Degree in a related field AND 9+ years of related experience
  • OR Doctorate in a related field AND 6+ years of related experience
  • OR equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years of experience creating publications (e.g., patents, libraries, peer-reviewed academic papers).
  • 2+ years of experience presenting at conferences or other events as an invited speaker.
  • 5+ years of experience conducting research as part of a research program (in academic or industry settings).
  • 3+ years of experience developing and deploying live production systems, as part of a product team.
  • 3+ years of experience developing and deploying products or systems throughout the product lifecycle from ideation to shipping.

Compensation

The typical base pay range for this role across Switzerland is CHF 183,800.00 - CHF 309,700.00 per year. Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and additional compensation.

Find additional benefits and compensation information here.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Equal Opportunity

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to various protected characteristics. If you require assistance with religious accommodations and/or reasonable adjustments due to a disability during the application process, please consult the relevant resources.

Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

Please enter your information in the following form and attach your resume (CV)

Only pdf, Word, or OpenOffice file. Maximum file size: 3 MB.