Principal Quantum Advanced Characterization Engineer

** Overview*
* At Microsoft Quantum, we aim to empower science and scientists to solve the world's biggest problems by realizing advanced computing platforms at the intersection of high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, and quantum information technology. Microsoft Quantum will change the world of computing and help solve some of humankind's currently unsolvable problems. For more information about our team, visit   . 

Microsoft Quantum is building the world's first scalable quantum computing system, with a full‑stack approach spanning materials, devices, systems, and cloud services. Our hardware strategy is centered on topological qubits, which require sophisticated nanofabrication of hybrid semiconductor-superconductor devices with stringent control of interfaces, materials quality, and process integration.

We are seeking a  
** Principal Quantum Advanced Characterization Engineer
** to lead and execute state-of-the-art nanoscale characterization of quantum materials and heterostructures using techniques such as STM/STS, atom probe tomography (APT), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

This role is central to establishing a deep physical understanding of materials at the atomic and electronic scale and translating that understanding into actionable insights that directly impact qubit performance, device design, and process integration.

You will operate across internal teams and external national laboratory facilities, defining characterization strategy, executing high-impact experiments, and driving materials → device feedback at the frontier of quantum hardware R&D.

Microsoft's mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond. 

** Responsibilities*
* + Advanced Nanoscale Characterization:
Define and execute advanced characterization experiments using:
Scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/STS), Atom probe tomography (APT), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM)

+ Extract atomic-scale and electronic structure information relevant to:
Interface quality and disorder, Composition, defects, and dopant distribution, Electronic states and superconducting properties

+ Materials-Device Feedback & Insight Generation:
Establish and own the structure → properties → device feedback loop, linking nanoscale measurements to qubit-relevant metrics

+ National Lab Collaboration & Experiment Leadership:
Lead experimental campaigns at U.S. national laboratories and user facilities (e.g., DOE labs, shared instrumentation centers)

+ Technical Leadership & Cross-Functional Impact:
Provide characterization-driven technical direction across materials, fabrication, and device teams

+ Tooling, Data & AI-Enabled Analysis:
Develop and scale pipelines for high-throughput data acquisition, analysis, and correlation

+ Other

+ Embody our  culture  and  values.

** Qualifications*
* ** Required Qualifications*
* + Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 3+ years experience in industry or in a research and development environment

+ OR Master's Degree in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 6+ years experience in industry or in a research and development environment

+ OR Bachelor's Degree in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 8+ years experience in industry or in a research and development environment

+ OR equivalent experience.

+ As stated in the job posting, this position requires verification of citizenship or other protected status to meet legal requirements of the role. If the role requires US citizenship, as indicated in the job description, a valid US passport must be provided to verify your citizenship. If the role requires US Person status, as indicated in the job description, US citizens must provide a valid US passport for verification while lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees may complete this verification using green cards or other status…