Scientist (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.•Phoenix, AZ

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Exponent is seeking a Scientist for their User Sciences Practice in Phoenix, AZ. This role involves conducting user experience (UX) and usability research for a variety of projects, including consumer electronics, medical devices, wearable technology, and AI applications. The Scientist will help clients understand user interactions with their products, identify usability issues, inform design improvements, and provide insights for safe and intuitive use. The position requires collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to deliver rigorous, actionable, and clearly communicated research insights to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Projects will encompass study design, data collection, analysis, and final reporting.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Developmental, Experimental, or Cognitive Psychology, Neuroscience, Vision Science, Data Sciences, Biomechanics, or a related discipline
Currently based in or are willing to relocate to the Phoenix area
Willingness to travel (e.g., 10-20%) for research sessions, client meetings, or on-site evaluations
Flexibility in scheduling (e.g., early mornings, evening, or weekends) depending on the consulting project
Breadth of knowledge of scientific literature from relevant fields along with the ability to creatively adapt expertise to specific and novel problems
Strong record demonstrating your ability to design and execute human subjects research studies using a variety of methods (e.g., qualitative research methods, usability testing, survey, experimental, quasi-experimental, case study)
Experience leading multiple scientific studies from start (i.e., design) to finish (i.e., communicating your results)
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, as well as strong interpersonal skills
Assertive, self-starter, and able to work with accuracy and attention to detail under pressure and/or deadlines
Proficiency in analytical, statistical, and computer programming (specifically Excel, MATLAB, Python, R, or SPSS)
Presently legally authorized to work in the United States; no immigration sponsorship or processing required

Nice To Haves

Experience conducting research in regulated, safety-critical, or sensitive domains (e.g., medical devices, healthcare, consumer safety, child-focused products)
Experience conducting human subjects research with diverse or specialized populations (e.g., children, caregivers, patients, healthcare providers) is a strong plus

Responsibilities

Reviewing and synthesizing scientific literature, technical data, and industry standards to ground research and inform study design and expert analysis
Designing and executing primary user research studies including usability testing, surveys, interviews, and observational research with careful attention to human perceptual, cognitive, and physical capabilities and limitations
Performing quantitative and qualitative data analysis including, for example, statistical analysis of behavioral and performance metrics and thematic analysis of qualitative data
Providing project management for multiple projects at a given time, including overseeing budgets and deadlines, coordinating project teams, and performing support tasks for team members
Preparing written reports and communicating complex analyses and findings clearly and succinctly to technical and non-technical audiences
Developing client contacts and building foundational business development skills through client interactions, supporting proposals, and gaining exposure to consulting strategies across a variety of areas (e.g., consumer products, medical devices, etc.)
Occasionally traveling (e.g., 10-20%) for research sessions, client meetings, or on-site evaluations, and being flexible in scheduling (e.g., early mornings, evenings, or weekends) to meet the needs of a consulting project