Senior Threat Intelligence Researcher (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 The Cortex Threat Intelligence team is responsible for maintaining an up-to-date overview of the ever-changing threat landscape and its effects on the Cortex product suite. This includes the collection, analysis, and dissemination of technical threat intelligence from multiple internal and external sources. As part of this role, you will identify detection opportunities, automate threat intelligence processes, and develop tools and methodologies to increase team productivity. Palo Alto Networks’ Cortex XDR is a market-leading platform with an almost unparalleled telemetry data lake. Our team is deeply data-driven; it is the ideal environment for analysts who are enthusiastic about data mining, tracking threat actors, and deconstructing complex cyberattacks. Key Responsibilities Monitor the global threat landscape using diverse sources to proactively identify potential coverage gaps and improve Cortex XDR’s defensive posture. Perform in-depth research into cyberattack techniques to provide actionable insights and suggestions for improving product capabilities. Leverage Palo Alto Networks’ telemetry datasets to identify emerging attack patterns and hunt for novel threats. Design and propose robust detection logic across multiple operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux). Partner with cross-functional teams within Palo Alto Networks to communicate findings and co-develop security enhancements. Transform technical intelligence into high-impact deliverables, including customer-facing reports, research articles for the company blog, or presentations at international security conferences. Qualifications Required Qualifications 4+ years of experience in at least one of the following fields: Threat Intelligence, Threat Hunting, Malware Analysis, Security Research, SOC (Level 3), or Incident Response. Deep understanding of the cyber threat landscape, including advanced malware and threat actor techniques. A strong command of the MITRE ATT&CK® framework is a must. Strong proficiency in Python, specifically for automating data collection via APIs and performing data analysis. Proven experience using BigQuery or SQL-based languages to query massive datasets and identify anomalies. Strong understanding of OS internals (e.g., processes, registry, memory, file system events) and OS event logs. Hands-on experience simulating attacks or performing static and dynamic malware analysis in a controlled lab environment. Analytical Mindset: Ability to analyze large amounts of technical data, extract crucial details, and draw meaningful conclusions. Independence: Ability to work independently, lead projects to fruition, and collaborate across the company with other departments. High proficiency in English, both verbal and written. Preferred Qualifications Experience in OSINT or intelligence analysis (e.g., military intelligence). Experience with EDR/XDR platforms, YARA, or Sigma rules. Strong presentation and public speaking skills. 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 accommodations@paloaltonetworks.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, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or other legally protected characteristics. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. Is role eligible for Immigration Sponsorship? No. Please note that we will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.