New

Principal Quantum Applications Architect - Cryptography

Microsoft
$142,800.00 - $274,800.00 / yr
United States, Washington, Redmond
Jun 04, 2026
Overview The Microsoft Quantum team is redefining what is possible with technology-creating unprecedented possibilities to solve humanity's most complex challenges. Our team combines hardware innovation with software technologies and Azure services to build scalable quantum technologies in an industry-leading quantum ecosystem. 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, visithttps://www.microsoft.com/en-us/quantum. We'reseeking aPrincipalQuantumApplicationsArchitectto develop applications for fault-tolerant quantum computersin the space ofchemistry,cryptography,andsimulation of physical systems.Are you enthusiastic about quantum computing and its applications? Do you want to be part of the next revolution in computing? Microsoft is looking for you! We are looking for talented scientists and engineers to join our team to build algorithms and applications for scaled fault-tolerant quantum computers. This is a unique opportunity to work with world-class scientists and engineers to drive innovation across quantum applications, development platforms,and hybrid quantum-classical workflows. 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 AlgorithmDevelopment:Create, build, andrefinequantumalgorithmsfor cryptanalysis and simulation. ProtocolCreation:Design novel quantum cryptographic schemes. Validation & Optimization:Develop, test, andvalidatemodelsfor estimating the cost and practicality ofalgorithmson scaled quantum computers. Large-Scale Modeling:Conduct simulations tooptimizequantum systemarchitecturesfor applications. Research:Drivemathematicalresearch and experimentation aimed atdeveloping new quantum algorithms. Cross-Team Collaboration:Collaborate effectively across teams,demonstratingclear communication. Embody ourCultureandValues Qualifications Required/Minimum Qualifications: Doctorate in Computer Science,Mathematics,Software Engineering, Physics, Physical Sciences, or related field AND 3+ years software industry experience, including developing commercial software, compilers,orscientificor cybersecuritycomputing applications. ORMaster's Degree inMathematics,Computer Science, Software Engineering, Physics, Physical Sciences, or related field AND 7+ years software industry experience, including developing commercial software, compilers,orscientificor cybersecuritycomputing applications. OR Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Physics, Physical Sciences, or related field AND 9+ years software industry experience, including developing commercial software, compilers, or scientific or cybersecurity computing applications. OR equivalent experience. Other Requirements: Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following specialized security screenings: Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud Background Check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter. Citizenship & Citizenship Verification: This role will require access to information that is controlled for export under export control regulations, potentially under the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or Export Administration Regulations (EAR), the EU Dual Use Regulation, and/or other export control regulations. As a condition of employment, the successful candidate will be required to provide either proof of their country of citizenship or proof of their U.S. permanent residency or other protected status (e.g., under 8 U.S.C. * 1324b(a)(3)) for assessment of eligibility to access the export-controlled information. To meet this legal requirement, and as a condition of employment, the successful candidate's citizenship will be verified with a valid passport. Lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees may verify status using other documents, where applicable. Ability toleverageAI tools to drive innovation and efficiency. Ability to work in an "AI-first" environment using modern AI tools to accelerateresearch anddiscovery. Additional or Preferred Qualifications: Demonstrated experience in one or more of the following areas:high-performance computing, simulation of physical systems,cryptologyor related mathematicalsubject,quantum algorithms. Demonstrated ability to work effectively across internal and external organizations, withstrong communicationand leadership skills. Programming experience inone or more quantumprogramming languages. Experience developing and implementing algorithms for quantum applications. Experience with high-performance classical computing methods. Methodical problem-solving andcritical-thinkingabilities. Proficient written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within adynamicmulti-disciplinary team environment. #Quantum #QuantumCareers #MDQCareers Quantum Software Engineering IC5 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $142,800.00 - $274,800.00 per year. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $188,000.00 - $304,200.00 per year. Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here: https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-corporate-pay This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.