Microsoft is to add 550 jobs across its operations in Ireland as the tech giant ramps up its research and development into AI technologies.
The investment will see Microsoft undertake significant industrial research in the area of AI and cyber security.
The new roles will be added over the next three to four years, across software engineering, applied sciences, product management, program management, data science, design, technical writing and analytics.
Microsoft Ireland said people can apply from today for 120 of those positions.
The expansion will see Microsoft's overall headcount in Ireland increase to more than 6,000 across its operations in Leopardstown, its data centre campus in Grange Castle, and LinkedIn.
This investment is supported by the Government of Ireland through IDA Ireland.
Taoiseach Simon Harris said the expansion by Microsoft marks a significant boost for the AI ecosystem in Ireland. "Fostering AI skills and advancing capabilities in the field are core to the Government’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and this project will help develop new specialist skills and expertise, thereby positioning Ireland for further investment in this critical area," he said.
Tara Roth, Microsoft's corporate vice president for engineering said the new roles span many of Microsoft’s future-focused product areas.
"Security is Microsoft’s top priority, and our Secure Future Initiative (SFI) is the largest cyber security project in history. We’re delighted that these roles will significantly contribute to both Microsoft’s AI development and our security efforts," she said.