1. Role Overview
Mercor is collaborating with a leading AI research lab on a project to advance frontier physics problem-solving. We are seeking physics experts with International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) experience (participants, medalist, problem-setters, coaches, graders, selection committee members). The goal of this project is to create novel, clear, and challenging Olympiad-style physics problems that cause the frontier AI models to fail (i.e. generate an incorrect response) and support the training of cutting-edge AI models.
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.
2. Key Responsibilities
* Write original & advanced IPhO-style physics problems to challenge frontier AI models
* Evaluate AI-generated solutions for correctness, clarity and style and identify where models fail
* Identify logical flaws, incomplete reasoning, or insufficiently-rigorous proofs
* Provide clear, concise, and correct solutions & chain of thought reasoning using proper LaTeX formatting
* Maintain extremely high standards of precision and problem difficulty
3. Required Qualifications
Note: Applicants must be highly proficient in writing and formatting documents using LaTeX
You are a good fit for the project if you have any of the following experiences:
* Olympiad medalist, problem setter, coach, or selection committee member in IPhO (preferred) or equivalent competitions (RPhO, CPhO, IPhO TST, APhO, EuPhO, USAPhO, BPhO, INPhO, JPhO, UPC, IYPT, CUPT)
* Or as a graduate researcher or educator experienced in designing advanced conceptual or quantitative problems in the sciences.
Other qualifications:
* Deep understanding of your domain’s core theoretical and experimental concepts
* Ability to articulate reasoning and derivations clearly in written form
* Strong ability to evaluate the rigor and complexity of physics problems
* Rigorous attention to detail in verifying solutions
4. More About the Opportunity
* Expected commitment: 20 hours/week minimum; up to 40 hours/week available
* Approximate project length: ~2 months, with extension potential
* Rolling start dates; setup typically within 1–2 days of approval
5. Compensation & Contract Terms
* $60-80/hr dependent on experience + performance
* Open to contributors worldwide (English proficiency required)
* Independent contractor engagement
* Payments issued weekly via Stripe Connect
6. Application Process
* Submit your resume or CV highlighting physics background and relevant achievements
* Complete a brief interview (20–30 minutes)
* Submit a short form detailing your experience writing problems and competing in physics competitions
* Selected applicants will be contacted within a few days with next steps
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 partnered with Mercor to contribute to frontier projects shaping the next era of AI.
We consider all qualified applicants without regard to legally protected characteristics and provide reasonable accommodations upon request.