Inorganic & Semiconductor Expert at Mercor

Inorganic & Semiconductor Expert | $84/hr | Remote (US-based)

Mercor is seeking experienced experimental scientists and engineers specializing in inorganic synthesis, superconductors, semiconductors, and advanced packaging to support a cutting-edge AI research lab. You will play a direct role in shaping how advanced AI models reason about materials, devices, and physical processes by contributing expert-level scientific knowledge to training and evaluation datasets.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply deep domain expertise in synthesis, characterization, fabrication, and device physics to generate high-quality training and evaluation data for AI models.
• Review and evaluate AI-generated scientific reasoning, identifying errors and improving technical accuracy.
• Design and solve challenging, expert-level problems within your area of specialization.
• Rate and rank model outputs against defined scientific criteria, providing clear written justifications.
• Structure technical knowledge — including experimental procedures, characterization results, and process data — into well-organized, model-ready formats.
• Deliver reliable, high-quality work consistently within defined timelines.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experimental experience in one or more of: inorganic synthesis (solid-state, solution, solvothermal, sol-gel), superconducting materials, or semiconductors and advanced packaging.
• Strong materials or device characterization skills, including XRD, SEM, TEM, spectroscopy, and electrical/transport measurements.
• Experience with thin-film growth or device fabrication (MBE/epitaxy, MOCVD, CVD, sputtering, IBAD, etch, cleanroom microfabrication) is a plus.
• Advanced degree (PhD or MS) or equivalent hands-on experience in materials science, chemistry, physics, or a related engineering discipline.
• Excellent written English communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical reasoning clearly and concisely.

Role Details

• Type: Long-term, ongoing engagement
• Hours: Up to 40 hours/week (minimum 10 hours/week)
• Arrangement: Fully remote (US-based)