PhD-Level Computational Biologist — Design Data-Centric Benchmarks for AI Models at Mercor

1. Role Overview Mercor is seeking computational biology experts to contribute to a unique project with a top-tier AI research organization. This short-term initiative challenges AI models with hidden-answer mystery problems grounded in real biological data. Experts will design validate and anonymize complex datasets to evaluate model reasoning capabilities not lookup accuracy. This is a compelling opportunity for data-driven life scientists to shape next-generation AI evaluation benchmarks. 2. Key Responsibilities Design biologically grounded problems with a single correct answer and 20 plausible distractors Identify download and preprocess datasets from public repositories (e.g. GEO SRA NCBI) Subsample and anonymize datasets to prevent metadata-based inference Independently validate solutions through custom analysis pipelines and visualizations Operate within technical constraints (e.g. file size task time limits) 3. Ideal Qualifications Hands-on experience analyzing sequencing or omics datasets (e.g. RNA-seq WGS mass spec) Proficient with bioinformatics tools and formats (e.g. BLAST samtools DESeq2 FASTA/FASTQ/BAM) Comfortable coding in Python R or bash and working in Jupyter notebooks Understanding of biological experiment design and lab-to-data nuances (e.g. batch effects) Advanced degree (MS PhD) or research background in computational biology genomics or bioinformatics 4. More About the Opportunity Remote and asynchronous set your own schedule Expected commitment: 1520 hours/week Project duration: 1 month Potential for additional projects based on performance and interest 5. Compensation & Contract Terms $6585/hour depending on experience and geography Paid weekly via Stripe Connect Structured as a freelance contract independent contractor status 6. Application Process Submit your resume to get started Qualified applicants will complete a short form assessing technical experience Follow-up steps may include a sample task or review call Responses typically within 35 business days 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 DAngelo Larry Summers and Jack Dorsey. Thousands of professionals across domains like law creatives engineering and research have joined Mercor to work on frontier projects shaping the next era of AI. Key Skills Laboratory Experience,Transfection,Bioinformatics,DNA Isolation,Genetics,PCR,R,Biochemistry,Next Generation Sequencing,Cell Culture,Molecular Biology,Research Laboratory Experience Employment Type : Full Time Experience: years Vacancy: 1