Biology Expert (PhD) - AI Safety
About the role We're hiring PhD‑level biologists to help make advanced AI models safer. Applicant pay shown: $65 - $70 / hour.
- Platform
- Mercor
- Fit category
- Research and academia
- Remote/location
- United States
- Pay
- Firm hourly pay: $65 - $70 / hour
- Eligibility
- Remote, U.S. eligibility/work authorization signal
- Difficulty
- Highly selective
- Last reviewed
- Jul 1, 2026
Current application
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What this role involves
About the role We're hiring PhD‑level biologists to help make advanced AI models safer. You'll apply your scientific expertise to evaluate and strengthen how these models handle specialized life‑science topics. No prior AI/ML experience is required — we'll train you on the workflow. What you'll do: Write expert‑level prompts across specialized life‑science topics. Evaluate and annotate model responses for scientific accuracy, helpfulness, and appropriate handling of sensitive content. Apply structured guidelines to classify prompts and conversations. What we're looking for: A PhD in biology or a closely related life‑science field — ongoing or completed (e.g., molecular biology, microbiology, virology, genetics, biochemistry, bioinformatics, synthetic biology, immunology). Deep familiarity with modern laboratory and computational techniques in your subfield. Strong scientific reasoning and writing in English.
Requirements
- Deep familiarity with modern laboratory and computational techniques in your subfield.
- Strong scientific reasoning and writing in English.
- Sound judgment around biosecurity and the responsible handling of dual‑use information.
Best for
- Researchers and advanced degree holders in the listed domain
- Experts comfortable evaluating technical AI responses
- Applicants who can explain specialist reasoning clearly
Skip this if...
- You cannot meet the visible location requirements: United States
- You need guaranteed acceptance, guaranteed work, guaranteed pay, or guaranteed hours
- You are not comfortable with Mercor's application, assessment, or independent-contractor terms.
- You require H-1B or STEM OPT support and the live listing still says those candidates are not supported.
Application tips
- Prepare concise proof of relevant professional experience before starting the application flow.
- Verify the live Mercor listing before applying because availability, pay, and eligibility can change.
- Read any location, work-authorization, and assessment requirements before applying.