Astronomy Expert

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Role Description

Mercor is collaborating with a leading AI research lab on a project to advance

frontier astronomy problem-solving

. We are seeking

astronomy experts

with

International Astronomy Olympiad (IAO)

experience including participants, medalists, problem setters, coaches, graders, or selection committee members.

The goal of this project is to create

novel, clear, and challenging Olympiad-style astronomy problems

that cause frontier AI models to fail (i.e., generate an incorrect response) and to support the training of cutting-edge AI reasoning systems.

This is a

short-term, high-impact, remote opportunity

for those excited about applying their expertise to frontier AI research, with the possibility of extension based on performance.

Key Responsibilities

Write original & advanced

IAO-style astronomy problems

to challenge frontier AI models

Evaluate AI-generated solutions for correctness, clarity, and reasoning quality, and identify where models fail

Identify logical flaws, incomplete reasoning, or insufficiently rigorous derivations

Provide clear, concise, and correct

solutions and reasoning

, formatted in

LaTeX

Maintain extremely high standards of precision, scientific rigor, and problem difficulty

Qualifications

Highly proficient in writing and formatting documents using

LaTeX

Olympiad medalist, problem setter, coach, or selection committee member in

IAO (preferred)

or equivalent competitions (

RAO, CAO, IAO TST, AAO, EuAO, USAAO, BAO, INAO, JAO, UAC, IAYPT, CAUT

, etc.)

Graduate researcher or educator experienced in designing advanced conceptual or quantitative problems in astronomy, astrophysics, or related physical sciences

Deep understanding of

core theoretical and observational concepts

in astronomy and astrophysics

Ability to articulate reasoning and derivations clearly in written form

Strong ability to evaluate the rigor and complexity of astronomy problems

Rigorous attention to detail in verifying solutions

Requirements

Expected commitment: 20 hours/week minimum; up to 40 hours/week available

Project length: ~2 months, with potential for extension

Rolling start dates; setup typically within 1 2 days of approval

Compensation & Contract Terms

$60 80/hr, dependent on experience and performance

Open to contributors

worldwide

(English proficiency required)

Independent contractor

engagement

Payments issued weekly via Stripe Connect

Application Process

Submit your

resume or CV

highlighting your astronomy background and relevant achievements

Complete a brief

interview (20 30 minutes)

Submit a

short form

detailing your experience writing problems and competing in astronomy or related Olympiads

Selected applicants will be contacted within a few days with next steps