Senior Security Researcher (GenAI)

TL;DR

Senior Security Researcher (GenAI): Identifying novel vulnerabilities and threats in Generative AI and large language model (LLM) technologies with an accent on developing proof-of-concept attacks and adversarial techniques. Focus on translating findings into actionable detection content, product improvements, and engineering backlogs to integrate research into Datadog’s platform.

Location: Hybrid

Company

Datadog is a global SaaS business, delivering a rare combination of growth and profitability.

What you will do

• Lead research initiatives to identify novel vulnerabilities and threats in Generative AI and large language model (LLM) technologies.
• Develop and demonstrate proof-of-concept attacks and adversarial techniques for educational and defensive purposes.
• Translate findings into actionable detection content, product improvements, and engineering backlogs.
• Collaborate with product managers, detection engineers, and software teams to integrate research into Datadog’s platform.
• Share research through blog posts, conference talks, and open-source contributions to promote customer trust and industry awareness.
• Engage with external stakeholders—including cloud providers and open-source communities—for responsible disclosure and remediation.

Requirements

• Experienced in Generative AI systems, with a deep understanding of vulnerabilities like prompt injection or model poisoning.
• Familiar with the OWASP Top 10 for LLMs and the application of traditional security principles (e.g., input handling, access control) to AI environments.
• Background in offensive security, penetration testing, or vulnerability research in cloud or SaaS environments.
• Able to independently plan and execute research projects with stakeholder alignment.
• Skilled in communicating complex findings clearly—through documentation, internal sharing, or public forums.
• Proficient in programming languages such as Go, Python, or Rust for building tools and systems for research.

Nice to have

• Experience working in a Security Research organization.
• A proven track record in discovering, disclosing, and documenting vulnerabilities.
• Experience presenting your research at large conferences.
• Experience working in an OKR driven environment.

Culture & Benefits

• New hire stock equity (RSUs) and employee stock purchase plan (ESPP).
• Continuous professional development, product training, and career pathing.
• Intradepartmental mentor and buddy program for in-house networking.
• An inclusive company culture, ability to join our Community Guilds (Datadog employee resource groups).
• Access to Inclusion Talks, our internal panel discussions.
• Free, global mental health benefits for employees and dependents age 6+.