Astronomy Expert

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