Biology PhD Expert
1. Role Overview
Mercor is seeking biology PhD experts to support a cutting-edge research collaboration with a leading AI lab. Experts will contribute to a large-scale supervised fine-tuning (SFT) dataset designed to improve model performance on biology-related reasoning and instructional tasks. This is a unique opportunity to shape how frontier models learn complex scientific concepts, with flexibility around contributions and structure. This is part of a long-term dataset development initiative.
- *2. Key Responsibilities**
- Author and review prompts and ideal responses in core biological subfields - Provide detailed, accurate answers across multiple prompt types (e.g., synthesis, summarization, open/closed QA) - Iterate on model-generated responses to correct inaccuracies or improve clarity - Help identify prompt structures likely to challenge current state-of-the-art models - Calibrate tone and structure to suit different system personas (e.g., domain expert, generalist learner)
- *3. Ideal Qualifications**
- PhD in biology or a closely related life science discipline - Deep expertise in one or more subfields (e.g., molecular biology, evolutionary biology, neurobiology) - Prior experience writing or editing instructional/scientific content preferred - Strong written communication skills and attention to detail - Familiarity with AI or LLMs is a plus but not required
- *4. More About the Opportunity**
- Remote and asynchronous — set your own hours - Expected commitment: 10–20 hours/week - Project duration: ~4+ months, with potential for extension - Short- and long-form content development opportunities
- *5. Compensation & Contract Terms**
- $60–65/hour for U.S.-based applicants; adjusted for other geographies - Paid weekly via Stripe Connect - You’ll be classified as an independent contractor
- *6. Application Process**
- Submit your resume to get started - Complete a short form to detail your expertise - Mercor will follow up within a few days with next steps
- *7. About Mercor**
- 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