Particle Physics Expert - Computational Specialist

About the job

Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.

Position: Particle & Nuclear Physics Expert
Type: Contract
Compensation: $70–$100/hour
Location: Remote
Commitment: 15–20 hours/week

Role Responsibilities

• Design challenging computational problems to evaluate AI capabilities in Particle & Nuclear Physics.
• Develop problems requiring skilled use of scikit-hep and related HEP Python tools for data analysis and simulations.
• Test and refine problems against state-of-the-art AI models to achieve target difficulty.
• Collaborate on problem-solving strategies that involve strategic planning and efficient data interpretation.
• Work independently to refine problem designs based on feedback and testing outcomes.
• Utilize Linux/terminal environments and remote compute sandboxes effectively.

Qualifications

Must-Have

• Graduate-level training in a relevant STEM field (MS, PhD, or equivalent research experience).
• Proficiency with at least one scientific software library, demonstrated through research publications or professional work.
• Strong Python skills for writing problem setups and solution validators.
• Ability to work independently and refine designs based on feedback.
• Comfortable in a Linux/terminal environment.

Preferred

• Experience across multiple domains or tools.
• Familiarity with benchmark or evaluation design.
• Background in scientific teaching or exam/problem-set design.
• Experience with computational reproducibility and containerized environments.

Application Process (Takes 20–30 mins to complete)

• Upload resume
• AI interview based on your resume
• Submit form

Resources & Support

• For details about the interview process and platform information, please check: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/welcome
• For any help or support, reach out to: support@mercor.com

PS: Our team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.