Astronomy Expert (Olympiad Problem Writers, Medalists, Participants, & Affiliates)

1. Role Overview

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.

2. 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

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 IAO (preferred) or equivalent competitions (RAO, CAO, IAO TST, AAO, EuAO, USAAO, BAO, INAO, JAO, UAC, IAYPT, CAUT, etc.)
• Or are a graduate researcher or educator experienced in designing advanced conceptual or quantitative problems in astronomy, astrophysics, or related physical sciences

Other qualifications:

• 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

4. More About the Opportunity

• 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

5. 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

6. Application Process

1. Submit your resume or CV highlighting your astronomy background and relevant achievements
2. Complete a brief interview (20–30 minutes)
3. Submit a short form detailing your experience writing problems and competing in astronomy or related Olympiads
4. 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 such as science, engineering, and research have partnered with Mercor to contribute to frontier AI projects shaping the next era of technology.