These comments for the Sony US Research Center
If you wish to work at the Sony, work for other division besides the Sony US Research Center in San Jose. Major problems exist at the Sony US Research Center.
Fact: I observe this year, over 25% of the technical staff quit and leave. [There is still 1.5 months left in fiscal year.] Typical turnover at other research center - Nokia, HP, IBM is 2-3%. Silicon Valley currently in recession. This number tell you how bad the conditions to be at the Sony US Research Center.
Fact: Head of the research center employed by Sony 20+ years. But, nearly all engineers in the research center have been working at the research center < 5 years. Many are new hire within the last 1 to 2 year. Not a good sign....
Fact: There are big funding issue and job security problem at the Sony US Research Center.
Fact: Upper management dishonest with employees. No transparency.
Fact: The Sony Electronics have company survey. Survey result suppose to be reported to employees by mandate of Sony President. The Sony US Research Center never report results to employees. My understanding based on talk with other employees at the Sony US Research Center. Our results are very bad, very bad, very bad.
Fact: Pay is low. You can confirm if you get job offer here.
Stay away. I would not recommend friend to work at the Sony US Research Center. Other departments in the Sony are ok.