Microsoft has announced its annual recognition of the top 100 security researchers through the Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC) Researcher Recognition Program.
The program publicly acknowledges security researchers who contribute to customer protection by discovering and reporting security vulnerabilities through Coordinated Vulnerability Disclosure.
The 2025 Most Valuable Researchers (MVRs) ranking is based on points earned for valid vulnerability reports submitted between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025.
This recognition system highlights the collaborative partnership between Microsoft and the global security research community.
The MSRC partners with thousands of researchers throughout the year, but the Most Valuable Researchers program specifically recognizes the 100 individuals who earned the most points through valid vulnerability submissions.
The point system rewards researchers based on the significance and impact of their discoveries, creating a merit-based ranking system that encourages high-quality security research.
Microsoft program operates on a continuous basis, with researchers able to submit vulnerabilities year-round.
The annual recognition period runs from July to June, allowing for comprehensive evaluation of contributions across a full twelve-month cycle.
This timeline ensures that seasonal variations in research activity don’t disproportionately affect rankings.
The program’s scope extends beyond simple vulnerability discovery, emphasizing the importance of responsible disclosure practices.
Researchers must follow coordinated vulnerability disclosure protocols, ensuring that discovered vulnerabilities are properly communicated to Microsoft before public release.
Technical Excellence
Beyond the overall top 100 ranking, Microsoft introduced technology area-specific leaderboards that recognize researchers who submitted high-impact vulnerabilities in particular product areas.
These technical leaderboards are not limited to MVR status and feature the top 10 researchers in each category regardless of their overall ranking.
The Azure security research leaderboard recognized Suresh Chelladurai, Adnan, and an anonymous researcher as the top contributors.
Office product security research was led by 0x140ce, Haifei Li, and a collaboration including Guang Gong, Li Shuang, and willJ.
Windows security research highlighted the work of wkai, VictorV, and another anonymous researcher.
The Dynamics 365 and Power Platform category recognized Dhiral Patel (@diralpatel94), Brad Schlintz (nmdhkr), and a collaborative effort between cjm00n with Kunlun Lab and Zhiniang Peng with HUST.
These specialized leaderboards demonstrate Microsoft’s commitment to recognizing excellence across its diverse product portfolio.
Badges and Rewards
Microsoft has implemented a comprehensive badge system that recognizes various aspects of research excellence beyond simple volume.
The Accuracy badge honors researchers achieving 100% validity in their submissions, meaning all reported vulnerabilities were confirmed as legitimate security issues.
The Impact badge recognizes high-impact work, awarded to researchers whose average points per valid vulnerability report meet or exceed the 90th percentile.
Meanwhile, the Volume badge acknowledges sustained contribution, requiring at least five valid vulnerability reports.
All 2025 MVRs will receive MSRC swag boxes and digital badges for sharing their achievements on social media and professional portfolios.
The recognition program underscores Microsoft’s commitment to collaborative security research and its appreciation for the global community of security researchers who help protect customers worldwide.
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