Principal Quantum Advanced Characterization Engineer

Job Title

Principal Quantum Advanced Characterization Engineer

Role Summary

Lead nanoscale materials characterization for Microsoft Quantum to establish atomic- and electronic-scale understanding of materials and heterostructures that affect qubit performance. Work across internal teams and external user facilities to define characterization strategy, run high-impact experiments, and translate results into device and process guidance.

Work focuses on advanced techniques such as STM/STS, atom probe tomography (APT), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), with responsibility for experimental leadership, data pipelines, and cross-functional technical direction.

Experience Level

Senior. Typical experience guidance from the posting: PhD + 3+ years, MS + 6+ years, BS + 8+ years, or equivalent professional experience.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include planning, executing, and interpreting nanoscale characterization experiments and translating findings into actionable materials and device improvements.

• Design and execute advanced characterization using STM/STS, APT, TEM and related methods.
• Extract atomic-scale composition, defect/dopant distributions, interface quality, and electronic/superconducting properties.
• Establish and own the materials → properties → device feedback loop to inform qubit design and process integration.
• Lead experimental campaigns at national laboratories and large user facilities; coordinate multi-institution programs.
• Provide technical leadership and influence across materials, fabrication, and device teams.
• Develop and scale data acquisition and analysis pipelines; apply AI/ML for image/spectroscopy analysis and feature extraction.
• Build and maintain collaborations with external experts and facility scientists; communicate findings across disciplines.

Requirements

Must-have skills, security/clearance expectations, and technical capabilities required to perform the role.

• Demonstrated expertise in nanoscale characterization methods and interpreting structural and electronic data (STM/STS, APT, TEM).
• Proven ability to design and execute complex, multi-step experimental programs and synthesize results into actionable guidance.
• Experience leading experiments at national labs or shared user facilities and coordinating external collaborations.
• Ability to develop high-throughput data pipelines and apply AI/ML methods for analysis, correlation, and defect classification.
• Track record of communicating technical insights across multidisciplinary teams and influencing materials/process choices.
• Familiarity with semiconductor–superconductor hybrid systems, or related quantum-relevant materials and measurements (preferred).
• Willingness to travel (posting indicates ~25–50% travel for lab/ facility work).
• Ability to meet Microsoft security and export-control screening requirements, including background checks and citizenship/immigration status verification.
• Strong scientific record (e.g., publications, invited talks, or leadership of major experimental programs) is preferred.

Education Requirements

Options provided in the posting: Doctorate (PhD) in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science/Engineering or related field (preferred) with 3+ years industry/R&D experience; OR Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, or related field with 6+ years experience; OR Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Engineering, or related field with 8+ years experience; OR equivalent practical experience. The posting also lists preferred fields such as Physics, Materials Science, and Materials Engineering and allows equivalent experience in lieu of degree.

About the Company

Company: Microsoft

Headquarters: Redmond, Washington, United States

Microsoft is a global technology company that develops and sells software, services, devices, and solutions. Known for its Windows operating system, Office suite, and Azure cloud platform, Microsoft aims to empower individuals and organizations around the world to achieve more. The company fosters a culture of innovation and inclusion, focusing on delivering trusted experiences to customers and partners globally.