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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. 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 Materials Nanofabrication Engineer to play a key role in developing, executing, and refining nanofabrication processes that directly support next generation topological qubit devices. This role provides hands-on ownership of fabrication workflows and close coupling to materials growth, device physics, and characterization teams. 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.
Job Responsibility
Nanofabrication Process Development: Develop, execute, and optimize semiconductor and hybrid device fabrication processes in Microsoft's West Lafayette cleanroom facilities
Contribute to end-to-end process flows for advanced quantum devices, from wafer preparation through final device definition
Identify process sensitivities and failure modes, and systematically improve yield, reproducibility, and device performance
Device Enablement & Characterization Support: Fabricate devices for materials and device characterization experiments, ensuring high process fidelity and documentation quality
Work closely with materials growth, measurement, and device physics teams to translate experimental requirements into robust fabrication solutions
Execute detailed design of experiments and iterate results
Documentation & Process Discipline: Rigorously document fabrication processes, protocols, and results to enable reproducibility and cross-team knowledge transfer
Communicate results clearly in written reports and technical discussions
Transfer research and development processes to high volume manufacturing
Tool Stewardship & Knowledge Sharing: Assist with maintenance and qualification of cleanroom tools and processes
Train and mentor junior personnel on equipment operation, safety practices, and fabrication best practices
AI-Accelerated Engineering: Use modern AI tools to improve efficiency in process development, data analysis, and technical documentation
Design or leverage AI agents/copilots to assist with experiment setup, log triage, report generation, protocol templating, and knowledge retrieval
Embody our culture and values
Requirements
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
This position requires verification of citizenship or other protected status to meet legal requirements of the role
Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role
Ability to leverage AI tools to drive innovation and efficiency
Ability to work in an AI-first environment using modern AI tools to accelerate discovery through hardware development
Nice to have
Hands-on experience with one or more of the following in a cleanroom environment: Electron-beam lithography
Atomic layer deposition (ALD)
Thin-film metal deposition
Gate dielectric deposition and characterization
Ion milling / etching processes
Proven track record of developing or improving semiconductor process flows that materially impact device performance
Direct experience optimizing and characterizing thin-film gate dielectrics
Written and oral communication skills, with attention to detail and process rigor
Demonstrated ability to safely operate sophisticated equipment and handle industrial solvents, acids, and bases
Hands-on experience developing new process steps and fabrication flows for semiconductor or hybrid devices
Demonstrated ability to operate independently in a cleanroom environment and execute complex fabrication workflows