This is a Physics Expert (PhD) role with Mercor based in Sydney, NSW, Australia
== Mercor ==
Role Seniority - mid level, junior
More about the Physics Expert (PhD) role at Mercor
NOTE: Hatch is supporting Mercor in hiring for this position, but Mercor remains the owner of the role and hiring process
Mercor is hiring experienced Physics professionals to join an exciting collaboration with a top AI research lab. This role involves contributing to the development and evaluation of advanced AI systems designed to replicate real-world workflows across classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, statistical physics, and relativity.
Key Responsibilities
- Create and assess complex problems in physics across various subdomains such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, statistical physics, and relativity
- Evaluate AI-generated responses for conceptual accuracy, mathematical rigor, and domain relevance
- Provide clear written feedback on physics problem sets and solutions
- Collaborate asynchronously with AI researchers and engineers to iterate and improve model performance
- Ensure scientific accuracy and academic precision in all physics content used to train or evaluate AI systems
Ideal Qualifications
- PhD in Physics or a directly related field from a top university
- 2+ years of academic experience (research, publication, teaching) or qualified experience (scientist, engineer or researcher)
- Deep subject-matter expertise across core areas of physics
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
- Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking
Project Timeline
- Start Date: Immediate
- Duration: 1–2 months
- Commitment: Part-time, ~20 hours/week (potential to extend to 40 hours/week)
- Schedule: Fully remote and asynchronous – flexible working hours
Compensation & Contract
- Competitive hourly rate based on experience and geography($65–$85 USD/hr, but subject to geography and conversion rates)
- Independent contractor
- Weekly payment via Stripe Connect
Application & Onboarding Process
- Upload your resume and application form
- AI interview: A short, 15-minute conversational session to understand your background, experience, and interest in the role
- Work trial: A paid, 4-hour assessment evaluating your ability to interpret project guidelines and deliver physics-specific output
Before we jump into the responsibilities of the role. No matter what you come in knowing, you’ll be learning new things all the time and the Mercor team will be there to support your growth.
Please consider applying even if you don't meet 100% of what’s outlined
Key Responsibilities
- Creating and assessing complex physics problems
- Evaluating AI-generated responses
- ✍️ Providing clear written feedback
Key Strengths
- PhD in Physics or related field
- ️ Exceptional communication skills
- Analytical thinking
- Experience in AI systems
- Teaching experience
- Project management skills
Why Mercor is partnering with Hatch on this role. Hatch exists to level the playing field for people as they discover a career that’s right for them. So when you apply you have the chance to show more than just your resume.
A Final Note: This is a role with Mercor not with Hatch.