Microbiologist

About the Role

Day-to-day, the successful candidate will engage with cutting-edge AI models, assessing their output for scientific validity and providing detailed feedback to enhance model performance. This role is pivotal in ensuring that the AI-generated content not only meets but exceeds current scientific standards, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation and quality. The candidate will be part of a team that values collaboration and mutual respect, working closely with AI developers and other subject matter experts to achieve shared goals.

Given the nature of the work, the role will involve interpreting complex primary research literature in biosecurity-adjacent areas, requiring a deep understanding of biological principles and the ability to critically evaluate scientific information. The candidate's findings and recommendations will directly impact the development of AI models, making this a highly influential and rewarding position for someone passionate about the intersection of biology and technology.

What You Will Do

• Evaluate AI-generated content in biology for scientific accuracy and relevance.
• Provide detailed, actionable feedback to improve model performance and content quality.
• Engage with complex primary research literature in biosecurity-adjacent areas to inform model development.
• Collaborate with AI developers and other subject matter experts to align on goals and strategies.
• Conduct thorough analyses of biological data to support model evaluation and improvement.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation of findings and recommendations.
• Participate in team discussions on model development and content strategy.
• Stay updated on the latest developments in microbiology, virology, immunology, and related fields to ensure cutting-edge knowledge.
• Contribute to the development of best practices for AI-generated content evaluation in biological sciences.

What We Are Looking For

• PhD in Biology, Microbiology, Virology, Immunology, or a closely related field.
• Proven experience with molecular biology techniques, including cloning, PCR, and cell culture.
• A strong publication record in relevant subdomains of biology.
• Experience interpreting primary research literature in biosecurity-adjacent areas.
• U.S. person currently located in a Five Eyes country.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to evaluate complex scientific information.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to provide clear, actionable feedback.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting while maintaining collaboration with a distributed team.

Nice to Have

• Experience with AI or machine learning models, particularly in the context of biological sciences.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and databases.
• A background in science writing or editing, particularly in the context of AI-generated content.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with multiple stakeholders.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive hourly compensation rate.
• The opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects at the intersection of biology and AI.
• Flexible, remote work arrangement, allowing for work-life balance.
• Collaboration with a team of experts in AI and biological sciences.
• Professional development opportunities, including access to the latest scientific research and technologies.
• Potential for long-term contract renewal based on performance.
• Access to a network of professionals in the field of microbiology and AI.

• Be prepared to demonstrate your expertise in microbiology, virology, or immunology, especially in the context of molecular biology techniques and biosecurity-adjacent areas.
• Highlight your experience with scientific writing or editing, particularly if you have worked with AI-generated content, to stand out as a candidate.
• Emphasize your ability to work remotely and manage your time effectively, given the contract-based and potentially dynamic nature of the role.
• Develop a strong understanding of AI and machine learning principles as they apply to biological sciences to enhance your candidacy.
• Prepare to discuss your analytical and critical thinking skills, providing examples from your research or professional experience, to demonstrate your capability to evaluate complex scientific information.
• Show enthusiasm for the intersection of biology and technology, and be ready to discuss how your skills and experience align with Mercor's innovative approach to AI-generated content in biology.
• Be clear about your expectations regarding the contract terms, including compensation, benefits, and potential for renewal, to ensure a mutual fit.