Role Overview

Join MongoDB as a Principal Research Scientist, Database Systems and drive the future of database innovation. MongoDB Research advances state-of-the-art database systems through fundamental and applied research that directly impacts our products. We're seeking exceptional researchers with expertise in database architecture, query optimization, storage engines, indexing, and multicore processing. This role offers opportunities in New York City, Palo Alto, or remote in North America.

MongoDB's modern developer data platform powers AI-era applications with our unified MongoDB Atlas cloud-native solution. As a leader in NoSQL databases, we help organizations modernize workloads and unleash AI innovation across AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure. Your research will shape scalable, secure, high-performance database technologies.

Key Responsibilities at MongoDB

• Lead innovative research in query optimization, advanced indexing methods, next-gen storage engines, and performance optimization for MongoDB.
• Design, prototype, and evaluate novel database systems leveraging modern hardware like SIMD parallelism, GPU acceleration, and multicore processing.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering to translate cutting-edge research into production-ready MongoDB features.
• Publish groundbreaking papers in premier venues like VLDB, SIGMOD, and top systems journals.
• Build a high-impact Database Systems research group with 2-3 researchers in 1-2 years.
• Mentor junior talent and create a collaborative research culture at MongoDB.
• Conduct roadmap reviews to identify research opportunities for MongoDB Atlas enhancements.
• Establish stakeholder relationships across Product and Engineering teams within first 90 days.
• Define a strategic research agenda driving MongoDB's database leadership.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field specializing in database systems.
• 12+ years applying CS concepts to large-scale databases and distributed systems.
• Proven publications in top-tier database conferences (VLDB, SIGMOD, OSDI, SOSP).
• Deep expertise in query optimization, efficient data structures, high-performance architectures.
• Strong performance engineering background with hardware-aware optimizations and database internals.
• Experience building research prototypes and rigorous empirical evaluations.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills for cross-functional teamwork.

Success metrics include building stakeholder relationships in 3 months, roadmap review and agenda in 6 months, and team hiring in 12 months.

Salary & Benefits

Earn competitive compensation reflecting your expertise in MongoDB research careers. Total package includes base salary, equity, and bonuses. MongoDB offers:

• Competitive Equity in a high-growth public company.
• MongoDB University for continuous learning.
• Global Family Leave and parental support.
• Wellness Programs including gym reimbursements.
• Fertility Assistance and comprehensive health plans.
• Flexible in-office, hybrid, or remote work in North America.
• Professional growth through research publications and leadership.
• Affinity groups fostering inclusive culture.

Why Join MongoDB?

MongoDB powers nearly 60,000 customers including 75% of Fortune 100 and AI startups. Our cloud-native platform is the world's most distributed multi-cloud database. Work on real-world impact advancing NoSQL, AI databases, and modern data platforms.

Our Leadership Commitment drives innovation at market speed. Enjoy a supportive culture with employee affinity groups, generous benefits, and global offices. MongoDB is where database researchers shape the future.

How to Apply

Ready to lead database systems research at MongoDB? Apply now for Principal Research Scientist roles in New York City, Palo Alto, or remote. Submit your resume, publication list, and research statement. Join us to innovate in MongoDB Atlas, publish at top conferences, and build cutting-edge database technology. Don't miss this MongoDB careers opportunity!