Principal Scientist (M.D. or D.O.)

About the role

We are seeking a Medical Doctor and experienced consultant for the position of Principal Scientist in our Health Sciences Practice. This position is open across all U.S. office locations.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to provide strategic leadership and expert guidance on projects involving medical evaluations, causation analysis, risk assessment, and risk communication.
• Projects may include the evaluation of mechanism of action; dose response; health hazard indices; review of medical, scientific and epidemiologic literature; comparative risk research; analyses using data science tools; and/or assistance with regulatory documents and analyses.
• Review and interpret medical records, physician notes, dosing and recommended use, and other factors will also be undertaken in these projects, as will review of relevant epidemiologic and medical sources for causation analyses.
• Leverage deep knowledge in medicine to address a wide range of complex human health challenges across diverse client sectors, therapies, clinical health endpoints, and patients, delivering scientifically rigorous and impactful solutions.
• Identify, pursue, and secure new client engagements by understanding emerging needs and building long-term partnerships.
• Maintain and grow trusted relationships with existing clients by consistently delivering high-quality work, anticipating future needs, and serving as a strategic advisor.
• Build, manage, and empower multidisciplinary teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and scientific integrity.
• Provide guidance, coaching, and professional development opportunities to technical staff, supporting their growth into future leaders and experts.
• Ensure successful project execution through effective planning, resource allocation, and budget management, while maintaining high standards of quality and timeliness.
• Offer high-level scientific and strategic advice to both internal stakeholders and external clients, contributing to the firm’s thought leadership and client impact.
• Enhance the firm’s visibility and credibility by publishing in peer-reviewed journals, presenting at industry conferences, leading seminars, and participating in expert advisory or technical committees.

Qualifications

• Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (O.D.), or equivalent degree from an accredited medical school.
• Ph.D. or M.S. degree in Epidemiology or a related scientific discipline is preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of consulting experience in the pharmaceutical or public health areas. Past or current clinical experience preferred.
• Proven track record of business generation and attracting new and repeat clients or funding.
• Expertise in epidemiologic study design and real-world evidence generation (e.g., non-interventional, database studies, registries).
• Knowledge in regulatory science, pharmacovigilance, clinical development, or HEOR.
• Critical appraisal and scientific interpretation of observational studies.
• Experience managing or contributing to multidisciplinary project teams and mentoring staff.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make informed recommendations in your scientific field.
• Outstanding reputation among clients and the scientific community for integrity, responsiveness, and technical expertise.
• Strong commitment to professional development.

Benefits

• Access benefits information on our Life @ Exponent page: https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
• Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status.
• If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com.