Engineering Physics Phds (STEM) Part-time

Engineering Physics PhDs (STEM)

$20-$50 per hour

Hourly contract

Remote

Posted by Mercor

Mercor is seeking PhDs and PhD candidates in Engineering Physics, Biophysics, and Control Theory to contribute to a high-impact AI research initiative in collaboration with a leading AI lab.

This role centers on assessing and advancing the performance of cutting-edge large language models (LLMs) by leveraging your advanced domain knowledge to rigorously evaluate scientific and technical reasoning in your area of expertise.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate the relevance, correctness, and depth of LLM-generated responses in your specialization, which may include:
• Dynamic systems, feedback control, and automation theory
• Thermodynamics, solid mechanics, and fluid dynamics
• Signal processing, circuit theory, and electromagnetics
• Biophysical modeling and biomedical instrumentation
• Quantum mechanics, statistical physics, and computational methods
• Design and refine complex technical tasks to probe the LLM's conceptual understanding, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving accuracy.
• Deliver structured, expert-level feedback on model performance, identifying strengths, gaps, and misconceptions.
• Collaborate closely with AI researchers to inform model development and suggest scientifically grounded improvements.
• Contribute to the creation of domain-specific benchmarks and evaluation datasets that challenge the frontier capabilities of language models.

You're a Strong Fit If You Have:

• A PhD (or are currently a PhD candidate) in one of the following or a related field:
• Engineering Physics
• Biophysics
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Control Theory / Control Engineering
• Deep domain knowledge in key topics such as:
• Control systems, robotics, and systems identification
• Circuit analysis, signal filtering, and electromagnetics
• Biophysical instrumentation and physiological systems modeling
• Solid/fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and manufacturing systems
• Quantum physics and applied computational methods
• A sharp eye for scientific and mathematical rigor, as well as an ability to critique logic and modeling assumptions.
• Excellent technical writing and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and concisely.
• Experience working independently and collaboratively in remote settings.

Role Details

• Part-time (10–20 hours/week), fully flexible commitment.
• 100% remote and asynchronous — set your own schedule and work from anywhere.

Compensation & Legal

• Hourly contractor role through Mercor.
• Highly competitive pay based on subject-matter expertise, ranging from $20 to $50/hour.
• Weekly payments processed seamlessly via Stripe Connect.

We consider all qualified applicants without regard to legally protected characteristics and provide reasonable accommodations upon request.