Biology PhD Expert at Mercor

Biology PhD Expert | $60–70/hr | Remote Worldwide

Mercor is seeking biology PhD experts to support a cutting-edge research collaboration with a leading AI lab. Shape how frontier AI models learn complex scientific concepts by contributing to a large-scale supervised fine-tuning dataset designed to improve model performance on biology-related reasoning and instructional tasks.

Role Overview

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a long-term dataset development initiative with flexibility around contributions and structure. Work remotely and asynchronously, setting your own hours while helping advance AI capabilities in biological sciences.

Key Responsibilities

• Author and review prompts and ideal responses in core biological subfields
• Provide detailed, accurate answers across multiple prompt types (synthesis, summarization, open/closed QA)
• Iterate on model-generated responses to correct inaccuracies and improve clarity
• Identify prompt structures likely to challenge current state-of-the-art models
• Calibrate tone and structure to suit different system personas (domain expert, generalist learner)

Ideal Qualifications

• PhD in biology or a closely related life science discipline
• Deep expertise in one or more subfields (molecular biology, evolutionary biology, neurobiology, etc.)
• Strong written communication skills and exceptional attention to detail
• Prior experience writing or editing instructional/scientific content preferred
• Familiarity with AI or LLMs is a plus but not required

Opportunity Details

• Remote and asynchronous work — set your own hours
• Expected commitment: 10–20 hours per week
• Project duration: 4+ months, with potential for extension
• Short- and long-form content development opportunities

Compensation & Contract Terms

• $60–70/hour (rates adjusted for geography)
• Paid weekly via Stripe Connect
• Independent contractor classification

Application Process

Submit your resume to get started, complete a short form detailing your expertise, and Mercor will follow up within a few days with next steps.

About Mercor

Mercor is a talent marketplace connecting top experts with leading AI labs and research organizations. Backed by Benchmark, General Catalyst, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey, thousands of professionals across domains have joined Mercor to work on frontier projects shaping the next era of AI.