Her Story
About Sonal
Sonal Shrivastava is an accomplished cybersecurity professional who serves as a Security Researcher II at Microsoft, specializing in cloud and application security. With nearly a decade of experience in cybersecurity, including several years at Microsoft, she focuses on identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities across Microsoft Cloud products and services that support millions of customers worldwide. Her work encompasses security research, vulnerability assessment, secure code review, threat analysis, and developing proactive security solutions to strengthen cloud environments. Sonal is also an active member of the cybersecurity community, participating in events such as the Grace Hopper Celebration and Women in Cybersecurity, where she shares knowledge and contributes to advancing the field. Sonal’s professional journey reflects determination, continuous learning, and a commitment to growth. She began her career in India after earning her bachelor’s degree and gaining early professional experience before pursuing a master’s degree in Computer Science from Indiana University Bloomington, where she graduated with a 3.9 GPA. Her graduate studies opened the door to opportunities in information and application security, ultimately leading to roles with organizations including Cigital(now Synopsys) and PayPal before joining Microsoft. Throughout her career, she has expanded her expertise across vulnerability research, web and cloud application security, secure development practices, and emerging attack techniques. She has also shared her research and insights through conference presentations covering topics such as cross-site scripting, OAuth security, cloud vulnerabilities, and modern application security. Sonal attributes her success to accountability, hard work, smart work, and the support and guidance of the people around her, while also recognizing the role that opportunity and good fortune have played in her journey. She believes in giving back and volunteers with local mentorship programs that support high school students, helping young people explore opportunities in technology and cybersecurity. She is particularly passionate about encouraging young women entering the industry to speak up confidently, make their voices heard, and participate fully in professional conversations. While she recognizes that gender bias and visibility remain ongoing challenges within cybersecurity, Sonal continues to make a meaningful impact through security research, vulnerability mitigation, mentorship, and public speaking, demonstrating that technical expertise, confidence, and a commitment to supporting others can help create a stronger and more inclusive cybersecurity community.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sonal
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the group of people I surround myself with. Being among the right set of people who are aspiring and challenging themselves kept me motivated through tough times, along with guidance, luck, hard work, and smart work.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice is to show up and keep contributing every day. Just take small steps at a time without knowing the final outcome, and eventually the path clears and you see what you have achieved.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't hesitate to speak up in meetings and professional settings. Women often hesitate even though they have the ability, unlike at home where they don't hesitate to direct their families. Just put your mind out there without overthinking.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is the gender gap and bias, particularly around visibility. Women do the work but struggle to get credit and attention compared to male counterparts who promote their work more openly.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Accountability is most important. When I say I will do something, I must follow through or clearly communicate if I cannot, which builds trust and reputation at work.
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