Phylogenetics PhD / Domain Expert

About the role

This opportunity is with Mercor, a company that connects high-caliber creative and technical professionals with AI research teams. The business is based in San Francisco and is backed by investors such as Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D’Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.

Position overview

The opening is for Phylogenetics PhDs and other domain experts working on the Zion (Arches) project. The work is contract-based, fully remote, and compensated at $55 to $80 per hour.

What you’ll do

• Create high-quality datasets and challenging phylogenetics problems that help shape future AI systems.
• Partner with AI labs to strengthen large language models using subject-matter expertise.
• Assess model outputs carefully and provide structured feedback for improvement.
• Work on an independent, asynchronous schedule while keeping pace with project timelines.
• Maintain a very high level of precision across all outputs and deliverables.

Required background

• A PhD or other advanced degree in Evolutionary Biology, Phylogenetics, Genetics, Genomics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Molecular Biology, or Ecology & Evolution.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent written and spoken communication abilities.

Interview and onboarding

The selection process includes a short interview plus a task that takes around 20 to 30 minutes. This task is paid and also covers a few onboarding videos.

How to apply

The application process is expected to take 20 to 30 minutes and includes uploading a resume, completing an AI-based interview drawn from the resume, and submitting a form.

Support

If applicants need help, support is available through the company’s support channel.

Additional information

The team reviews applications every day. Candidates should finish both the AI interview and the remaining application steps to be considered.