Principal Scientist (Ph.D.)

About Exponent

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients’ most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.  

 

We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower our clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.  

 

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you’ll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team!   

 

Key statistics: 

• 950+ Consultants 
• 640+ Ph.D.s 
• 90+ Disciplines 
• 30+ Offices globally 

Our Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced consultant for a Principal Scientist position in our Ecological & Biological Sciences Practice in our Philadelphia, PA office. In this role, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to provide strategic leadership and expert guidance on areas including complex environmental projects, such as sustainability initiatives, environmental permitting, biodiversity, and natural resource damage assessment. As a Principal Scientist, you will lead high-profile projects, cultivate relationships with existing clients, identify new business opportunities, and contribute to the growth of our Ecological & Biological Sciences Practice. 

You will be responsible for

 

• Leveraging deep knowledge in ecological and environmental sciences to address a wide range of environmental challenges across diverse client sectors, delivering scientifically rigorous and impactful solutions.

• Identifying, pursuing, and securing new client engagements by understanding emerging needs and building long-term partnerships. 

• Maintaining and growing trusted relationships with existing clients by consistently delivering high-quality work, anticipating future needs, and serving as a strategic advisor. 

• Building, managing, and empowering multidisciplinary teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and scientific integrity. 

• Providing guidance, coaching, and professional development opportunities to technical staff, supporting their growth into future leaders and experts. 

• Ensuring 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.  

You will have the following skills and qualifications

• PhD in Ecology, Biology, Ecotoxicology, Environmental Sciences or a related scientific field  

• Minimum of 10 years of consulting experience in the ecological or environmental sciences space 

• Proven track record of business generation and attracting new and repeat clients or funding 

• 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 

• Adept people management abilities coupled with extensive experience in successfully overseeing and executing complex projects  

• Strong commitment to professional development  

 

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page]. 

Li