Astrophysics Expert - Cosmology Specialist

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.

About the role

We are seeking an Astrophysics & Cosmology Expert to design challenging computational problems that test AI systems using real scientific software. This is a remote, part-time contract position with a commitment of 15–20 hours per week.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Requirements

• 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.

Qualifications (Preferred)

• 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.

Pay

$70–$100/hour

Schedule

15–20 hours per week