Academic Research Specialist; Master's​/PhD

Academic Research Specialist (Master's / PhD)

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Mercor is collaborating with a leading AI organization to contract researchers with experience across domains such as computer science, biology, and economics. This project centers on reviewing research-oriented materials to assess methodological soundness, technical innovation, and logical consistency. Freelancers will analyze dense academic content and help distill the reasoning behind new models, algorithms, or theoretical contributions.

• Analyze technical/research documents to identify and explain methodological advancements
• Compare new approaches to baseline models and prior research
• Evaluate the strength of evidence, logical structure, and argumentation
• Summarize complex technical content in concise, structured formats
• Flag inconsistencies, unclear reasoning, or unsupported claims

• Advanced degree (or equivalent experience) in a technical or quantitative field (e.g., computer science, biology, economics, statistics)
• Strong foundation in academic research, experimental design, algorithm evaluation, or statistical methods
• Proven ability to critically assess academic or research writing
• Excellent analytical and writing skills, especially in technical contexts
• Comfortable working independently in a remote and detail-oriented environment

• Remote and asynchronous — set your own hours
• Expected commitment: 10–15 hours/week
• Suitable for researchers, academics, or graduate-level freelancers

• $45/hour
• You’ll be classified as an independent contractor
• Payments processed weekly via Stripe Connect
• US-Based

• Submit your resume to get started
• You may be asked to complete a short-form technical assessment
• We typically follow up within 3–5 business days

• Mercor is a talent marketplace that connects top experts with leading AI labs and research organizations
• Our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Adam D’Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey
• Thousands of professionals across domains like law, creatives, engineering, and research have joined Mercor to work on frontier projects shaping the next era of AI

Not Applicable

Full-time

• Research
• Analyst
• Information Technology

Software Development