Principal Regulatory Scientist, Food Safety & Policy

Exponent Inc.; Menlo Park (CA); On-site; USD 200,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent seeks a Principal Scientist in our Chemical Regulation & Food Safety Practice based in Menlo Park, CA. You will apply deep expertise in food science, regulatory affairs, nutrition, and product safety to guide clients through complex regulatory challenges across food, beverage, and animal feed products.

You will lead engagements, mentor staff, win new business, and help advance Exponent's reputation as a trusted advisor to industry leaders.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Nutrition, Regulatory Science, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 12 years of consulting, industry, regulatory, or leadership experience.
• Extensive knowledge of U.S. food, feed, and ingredient regulatory frameworks.
• Demonstrated expertise with GRAS, FAP, AAFCO, novel foods, biotech-derived products, and related processes.
• Proven track record in developing new business and revenue growth.
• Established reputation among clients, regulators, and the scientific community for integrity and technical excellence.
• Experience as a strategic advisor to senior client stakeholders and executives.
• Strong business development, networking, and relationship management skills.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication for diverse audiences.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Providing strategic scientific and regulatory expertise on food ingredients, animal feed, nutritional products, beverages, and related manufacturing processes.
• Advising clients on regulatory compliance, product stewardship, market authorization, and approval pathways.
• Developing and implementing regulatory strategies that support innovation and long-term objectives.
• Identifying and pursuing new client engagements and expanding relationships with existing clients.
• Leading multidisciplinary project teams and overseeing complex scientific and regulatory engagements.
• Managing project execution, staffing, budgets, and client communications.
• Providing technical leadership, peer review, and guidance across food safety projects.
• Mentoring junior and mid-level consultants and fostering talent development.
• Contributing to thought leadership through publications and industry engagement.
• Monitoring evolving regulatory developments and translating them into business solutions.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Regulatory strategy

Business development

Client relationship management

Mentoring

Education

Ph.D. in Food Science or related

Job description

Exponent seeks a Principal Scientist in our Chemical Regulation & Food Safety Practice based in Menlo Park, CA. You will apply deep expertise in food science, regulatory affairs, nutrition, and product safety to guide clients through complex regulatory challenges across food, beverage, and animal feed products.

You will lead engagements, mentor staff, win new business, and help advance Exponent's reputation as a trusted advisor to industry leaders.