Astrophysics Researcher - Fully Remote

Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark
, General Catalyst
, Peter Thiel
, Adam D'Angelo
, Larry Summers
, and Jack Dorsey
.

Position: Astrophysics & Cosmology Expert
Type:
Contract
Compensation: $70–$100/hour
Location:
Remote
Commitment:
15–20 hours/week

• Design challenging computational problems to test AI systems using real scientific software.
• Develop problems requiring strategic planning and multi-step workflows for AI to uncover hidden data.
• Refine problems through iterative testing against state-of-the-art AI models.
• Utilize astropy and related tools for cosmological calculations and data analysis.
• Work independently to enhance problem designs based on feedback.
• Collaborate asynchronously with teams to ensure problem difficulty is optimal.

• Graduate-level training in a relevant STEM field (
  MS, PhD, or equivalent research experience
  ).
• Proven proficiency with scientific software libraries through research publications or professional work.
• Strong Python skills for writing problem setups and solution validators.
• Comfortable in a Linux/terminal environment with remote compute sandboxes.
• Available for at least 15–20 hours per week
  .

• Experience across multiple domains or tools.
• Familiarity with benchmark or evaluation design.
• Background in scientific teaching or exam/problem-set design.
• Experience with computational reproducibility and containerized environments.

• For details about the interview process and platform information, please check:
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PS:
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