Academic Research Specialist (Master's / PhD)

Job Description

Job Description

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