Principal Researcher - Quantum

Join Microsoft Quantum’s laboratory in Lyngby, Denmark, and help build advanced quantum computing platforms that connect scientific discovery with system engineering. You will work with physicists, engineers, computer scientists, and researchers across disciplines to advance quantum devices, control systems, architectures, software, and cloud-connected capabilities as an integrated system.  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 https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/quantum .  As a Principal Researcher , you will take technical ownership of a major subsystem or capability within a quantum hardware program and help move technology from scientific concepts through experimental validation and system realization. You will define system strategy, make architectural decisions grounded in scientific and engineering evidence, identify the experiments that reduce the most important uncertainties, and guide technical investments. Your primary impact will come from system-level thinking, technical judgment, and leadership, while maintaining the technical depth needed to work closely with theorists, engineers, software developers, external collaborators, and technology partners. You will mentor scientists and engineers and help establish technical excellence across the organization. We expect to make multiple hires, and we welcome candidates with depth and leadership in any quantum hardware architecture or adjacent advanced experimental-systems discipline.  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 • Own the technical strategy, architecture, and design of a major subsystem or capability within a quantum hardware program, evaluating trade-offs, risks, and opportunities using scientific and engineering evidence.   • Design and drive critical experiments that reduce uncertainty, enable informed technical decisions, and uphold high standards for data quality, validation, calibration, and reproducibility.   • Translate scientific insight into practical system requirements, designs, performance targets, and execution plans.   • Partner across theory, engineering, and software teams to connect models, simulations, measurements, controls, and implementation into an integrated system.   • Work with external suppliers, technology partners, and research collaborators to advance program goals and mitigate technical risks.   • Mentor scientists and engineers, communicate complex technical topics to senior leaders and external stakeholders, and contribute to technical excellence across the organization. • Embody our  culture  and  values.

Required/Minimum Qualifications  • Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, or a related field, OR Master’s Degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field, OR Bachelor’s Degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field, OR equivalent experience.  • Experience in leading or building complex quantum architecture.  • Experience designing experiments and interpreting evidence for critical decisions.  • Experience in quantitative systems reasoning across physical mechanisms and architecture.   Other Requirements  • Ability to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) tools to drive innovation and efficiency, including