Academic Research Specialist (Master's / PhD)

1. Role Overview

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.

2. Key Responsibilities

• 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

3. Ideal Qualifications

• 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

4. More About the Opportunity

• Remote and asynchronous — set your own hours

• Expected commitment: ~10–15 hours/week

• Suitable for researchers, academics, or graduate-level freelancers

5. Compensation & Contract Terms

• $45/hour

• You’ll be classified as an independent contractor

• Payments processed weekly via Stripe Connect

• US-Based

6. Application Process

• 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

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

Originally posted on Himalayas