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Role Description
Mercor is collaborating with a leading AI research lab on a project to advance
frontier astronomy problem-solving
. We are seeking
astronomy experts
with
International Astronomy Olympiad (IAO)
experience — including participants, medalists, problem setters, coaches, graders, or selection committee members.
The goal of this project is to create
novel, clear, and challenging Olympiad-style astronomy problems
that cause frontier AI models to fail (i.e., generate an incorrect response) and to support the training of cutting-edge AI reasoning systems.
This is a
short-term, high-impact, remote opportunity
for those excited about applying their expertise to frontier AI research, with the possibility of extension based on performance.
Key Responsibilities
-
Write original & advanced
IAO-style astronomy problems
to challenge frontier AI models
-
Evaluate AI-generated solutions for correctness, clarity, and reasoning quality, and identify where models fail
-
Identify logical flaws, incomplete reasoning, or insufficiently rigorous derivations
-
Provide clear, concise, and correct
solutions and reasoning
, formatted in
LaTeX
-
Maintain extremely high standards of precision, scientific rigor, and problem difficulty
Qualifications
-
Highly proficient in writing and formatting documents using
LaTeX
-
Olympiad medalist, problem setter, coach, or selection committee member in
IAO (preferred)
or equivalent competitions (
RAO, CAO, IAO TST, AAO, EuAO, USAAO, BAO, INAO, JAO, UAC, IAYPT, CAUT
, etc.)
-
Graduate researcher or educator experienced in designing advanced conceptual or quantitative problems in astronomy, astrophysics, or related physical sciences
-
Deep understanding of
core theoretical and observational concepts
in astronomy and astrophysics
-
Ability to articulate reasoning and derivations clearly in written form
-
Strong ability to evaluate the rigor and complexity of astronomy problems
-
Rigorous attention to detail in verifying solutions
Requirements
-
Expected commitment: 20 hours/week minimum; up to 40 hours/week available
-
Project length: ~2 months, with potential for extension
-
Rolling start dates; setup typically within 1–2 days of approval
Compensation & Contract Terms
-
$60–80/hr, dependent on experience and performance
-
Open to contributors
worldwide
(English proficiency required)
-
Independent contractor
engagement
-
Payments issued weekly via Stripe Connect
Application Process
-
Submit your
resume or CV
highlighting your astronomy background and relevant achievements
-
Complete a brief
interview (20–30 minutes)
-
Submit a
short form
detailing your experience writing problems and competing in astronomy or related Olympiads
-
Selected applicants will be contacted within a few days with next steps
