STEM PhD Researcher

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Role Description

We are looking for STEM PhD experts to be part of a project at the frontier of AI research and development. This initiative focuses on building agentic workflows — structured processes that capture how experts think, reason, and solve problems. These workflows will be used to design, evaluate, and improve next-generation AI systems.

• Translate domain knowledge into clear, structured instructions (SOPs, rubrics, evaluation criteria).
• Create realistic tasks and scenarios that capture day-to-day professional activities in STEM fields.
• Collaborate with other experts to refine and validate workflows for accuracy, clarity, and reproducibility.
• Work with AI researchers and engineers to ensure workflows can be operationalized into agent environments.
• Identify opportunities where AI can augment or replicate expert decision-making in your discipline.

Qualifications

• PhD (or equivalent advanced degree) in a STEM discipline (Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Mathematics, Engineering, or related fields).
• Strong ability to explain complex processes in a clear, structured, step-by-step way.
• Experience in research, teaching, or technical writing is a plus.
• Excited about bridging your academic expertise with the development of cutting-edge AI systems.

Requirements

• Time commitment: ~10 hours/week for 3 weeks.
• Remote and flexible scheduling.
• Option to extend engagement and bring on additional experts as project needs evolve.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly compensation (exact rates to be confirmed).
• Payments issued for services rendered.
• Independent contractor arrangement.
• Payments processed via Stripe Connect.

Application Process

• Submit your resume or profile highlighting your expertise in the relevant domain.
• Short form to capture domain experience and availability.
• Mercor will follow up within a few days regarding next steps.