PhD Computational Biologist - AI Benchmarks at Mercor

Computational Biologist | $65–85/hr | Remote Worldwide

Mercor is seeking computational biology experts to contribute to a cutting-edge project with a top-tier AI research organization. Design and validate complex biological datasets that challenge AI models with hidden-answer problems, helping shape next-generation AI evaluation benchmarks.

Role Overview

This short-term initiative focuses on creating biologically grounded "mystery problems" using real datasets. You'll design challenges that evaluate AI model reasoning capabilities rather than simple lookup accuracy—a unique opportunity for data-driven life scientists to influence frontier AI development.

Key Responsibilities

• Design biologically grounded problems with a single correct answer and ≥20 plausible distractors
• Identify, download, and preprocess datasets from public repositories (GEO, SRA, NCBI)
• Subsample and anonymize datasets to prevent metadata-based inference
• Independently validate solutions through custom analysis pipelines and visualizations
• Operate within technical constraints including file size and task time limits

Ideal Qualifications

• Hands-on experience analyzing sequencing or omics datasets (RNA-seq, WGS, mass spectrometry)
• Proficient with bioinformatics tools and formats (BLAST, samtools, DESeq2, FASTA/FASTQ/BAM)
• Comfortable coding in Python, R, or bash, and working in Jupyter notebooks
• Understanding of biological experiment design and lab-to-data nuances (batch effects)
• Advanced degree (MS, PhD) or research background in computational biology, genomics, or bioinformatics

Project Details

• Remote and asynchronous—set your own schedule
• Expected commitment: 15–20 hours per week
• Project duration: approximately 1 month
• Potential for additional projects based on performance and interest

Compensation & Contract Terms

• $65–85/hour depending on experience and geography
• Paid weekly via Stripe Connect
• Independent contractor status

Application Process

Submit your resume to get started. Qualified applicants will complete a short technical assessment form. Follow-up steps may include a sample task or review call. Responses typically within 3–5 business days.

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, we've helped thousands of professionals work on frontier projects shaping the next era of AI.