Artificial Intelligence (AI) Cybersecurity Scientist (Ph.D.) (Hiring Immediately)
Exponent
Job Description
Position Overview Artificial Intelligence (AI) Cybersecurity Scientist (Ph.D.)
ID: 2026-2489
Location: Menlo Park, CA (or Oakland, CA)
Position Type: Full‑time
Workplace: On‑site
Salary Range: USD $140,000.00 – $154,000.00 per year
Responsibilities
Securely and responsibly adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for clients.
Develop and implement assurance practices and frameworks for operational technology (OT) environments, including critical infrastructure.
Design, build, and evaluate AI‑enabled systems that improve the cybersecurity posture of OT environments.
Deliver highly technical AI consulting services to help clients adopt AI solutions securely, responsibly, and effectively.
Develop approaches to evaluate, assure, and govern AI systems before deployment, with emphasis on cybersecurity.
Evaluate AI systems for cybersecurity risks, including adversarial manipulation, data poisoning, model extraction, prompt injection, insecure tool use, and unsafe autonomous behavior.
Apply cybersecurity and AI risk‑management frameworks such as NIST Cybersecurity Framework, NIST AI Risk Management Framework, MITRE ATT&CK, MITRE ATLAS, ISA/IEC 62443, and sector‑specific guidance.
Lead or collaborate on all phases of the client engagement lifecycle: identifying needs, framing/scoping problems, developing plans, building/evaluating solutions, and translating insights into actionable recommendations.
Advise clients on technical and strategic business solutions, identifying new technology‑driven opportunities, and helping plan scalable, sustainable, and efficient systems.
Support business development by building client relationships, identifying new opportunities, and helping craft and execute solutions.
Qualifications
Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, or a related technical discipline.
Experience developing, evaluating, or deploying machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, or agentic AI systems.
Expertise spanning AI model development, AI assurance, cybersecurity, OT systems, and software development using modern engineering best practices.
Proficiency in at least two of the following: Python, R, C++, Linux, cloud platforms, containerization, MLOps tools, or cybersecurity analysis tools.
Working understanding of common OT architectures, protocols, and constraints (industrial control systems, SCADA, PLCs, DCS, safety‑critical environments).
Strong communication skills, ability to translate complex technical concepts for diverse audiences.
Business acumen and entrepreneurial mindset with a track record of identifying value for clients and driving business development.
Strong project management and organizational skills; ability to thrive independently and as a collaborative team member in fast‑paced, multidisciplinary settings.
Currently legally authorized to work in the United States; no immigration sponsorship required.
Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV with publications.
Equal Opportunity Statement 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, please email HR‑[email protected].
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