Principal Quantum Applications Architect - Cryptography
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 18, 2026. First seen by Alion on Jun 3, 2026. Microsoft scores B on the Alion truth index.
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, visit https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/quantum.
We’re seeking a Principal Quantum Applications Architect to develop applications for fault-tolerant quantum computers in the space of chemistry, cryptography, and simulation 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
Algorithm Development: Create, build, and refine quantum algorithms for cryptanalysis and simulation.
Protocol Creation: Design novel quantum cryptographic schemes.
Validation & Optimization: Develop, test, and validate models for estimating the cost and practicality of algorithms on scaled quantum computers.
Large-Scale Modeling: Conduct simulations to optimize quantum system architectures for applications.
Research: Drive mathematical research and experimentation aimed at developing new quantum algorithms.
Cross-Team Collaboration: Collaborate effectively across teams, demonstrating clear communication.
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, or scientific or cybersecurity computing applications.
OR Master's Degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Physics, Physical Sciences, or related field AND 7+ years software industry experience, including developing commercial software, compilers, or scientific or cybersecurity computing 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 to leverage AI tools to drive innovation and efficiency.
Ability to work in an “AI-first” environment using modern AI tools to accelerate research and discovery.
Additional or Preferred Qualifications:
Demonstrated experience in one or more of the following areas: high-performance computing, simulation of physical systems, cryptology or related mathematical subject, quantum algorithms.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively across internal and external organizations, with strong communication and leadership skills.
Programming experience in one or more quantum programming languages.
Experience developing and implementing algorithms for quantum applications.
Experience with high-performance classical computing methods.
Methodical problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
Proficient written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a dynamic multi-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 - $274,800 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 - $304,200 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.