Principal/Senior Security Researcher - NDR (Cortex)

Our Mission At Palo Alto Networks®, we’re united by a shared mission—to protect our digital way of life. We thrive at the intersection of innovation and impact, solving real-world problems with cutting-edge technology and bold thinking. Here, everyone has a voice, and every idea counts. If you’re ready to do the most meaningful work of your career alongside people who are just as passionate as you are, you’re in the right place. Who We Are In order to be the cybersecurity partner of choice, we must trailblaze the path and shape the future of our industry. This is something our employees work at each day and is defined by our values: Disruption, Collaboration, Execution, Integrity, and Inclusion. We weave AI into the fabric of everything we do and use it to augment the impact every individual can have. If you are passionate about solving real-world problems and ideating beside the best and the brightest, we invite you to join us! We believe collaboration thrives in person. That’s why most of our teams work from the office full time, with flexibility when it’s needed. This model supports real-time problem-solving, stronger relationships, and the kind of precision that drives great outcomes. Job Summary We are looking for a Network Security Researcher to join our NDR behavioral detection team. You will create statistics-based classification algorithms detecting everything from network entities through process behaviors and attackers operating in enterprise-scale networks using data from multiple network and endpoint sources; from analyzing attack patterns, finding statistical anomalies, choosing the right features, training the right model and validating that you detect the right concept on real customer data with real APTs. Key Responsibilities Research new methods to detect targeted attackers operating in networks and endpoints by utilizing enormous amounts and varied types of data Simulate attacks in Lab environments and conduct a deep analysis of the behavior Use and develop statistical and machine learning algorithms and techniques to create and improve our analytics detection capabilities Be part of a diverse research group, improving our research processes and leading us to be a better team creating a better product Stay up to date with APTs, attacker methodologies, and TTPs Qualifications Required Qualifications In-depth Knowledge of network protocols, including but not limited to HTTP/S, SMB, RPC, DNS, DHCP, Kerberos, SMTP etc Intimate knowledge and understanding of attack methods and techniques over complex enterprise networks Strong proficiency in Python Data Analysis - Proficient in SQL or similar query languages for analyzing large datasets and identifying attack patterns specific to complex enterprise networks Communication - Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex research findings, processes, and concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences Ability to drive and own projects Strong attention to detail Preferred Qualifications Exploitation knowledge and experience Experience with ML/AI for classification and anomaly detection Experience working with investigative technologies such as SIEM and and Endpoint Detection and Response tools Experience working with Go Our Commitment We’re trailblazers that dream big, take risks, and challenge cybersecurity’s status quo. It’s simple: we can’t accomplish our mission without diverse teams innovating, together. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all qualified individuals with a disability. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability or special need, please contact us at accommodationspaloaltonetworks.com . Palo Alto Networks is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in our workplace, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gen ... (truncated, view full listing at source)