Astrophysics & Cosmology Expert | $70-$100/hr Remote
Overview
We’re hiring an astrophysics and cosmology expert to design challenging benchmark problems for advanced AI systems. You’ll craft original, graduate-level computational tasks that test whether AI can use real scientific software like astropy to run simulations, interpret results, and uncover hidden insights from data. This is not a typical data-labeling role — you’ll iterate against state-of-the-art AI models and fine-tune difficulty until each problem demands genuine scientific reasoning.
What You'll Do5
- 1Create original, graduate-level computational problems that require skilled use of astrophysics and cosmology software, including astropy-based workflows for cosmological calculations, angular power spectra, and galaxy survey analysis.
- 2Design two types of tasks: ones with fully defined setups that require exact multi-step computations, and open-ended investigative problems where the AI must plan which experiments or queries to run to reveal hidden information.
- 3Test your problems against cutting-edge AI models and refine them based on performance, adjusting difficulty until they hit the target level.
- 4Develop problem setups, oracle functions, and solution validators in Python to ensure each problem is unambiguous and correctly solvable.
- 5Work independently in a Linux/terminal environment, using remote compute sandboxes to run simulations and validate outcomes.
Requirements6
- 1Graduate-level training in a relevant STEM field (MS, PhD, or equivalent research experience) in astrophysics, cosmology, or a closely related discipline.
- 2Hands-on, proven proficiency with astropy or similar scientific libraries, demonstrated through publications, open-source contributions, or professional projects.
- 3Strong Python programming skills for writing problem setups, validators, and solution-checking code.
- 4Ability to work self-sufficiently and refine problem designs based on feedback from AI model evaluations.
- 5Comfortable using Linux and command-line tools, plus remote compute environments.
- 6Available to commit at least 15–20 hours per week.
Who Should Apply
You’re a scientist or researcher who has used astropy and related tools for real research — not just theoretical knowledge. You enjoy puzzle design and can craft problems where the difficulty lies in smart reasoning rather than raw computation. You’re comfortable with Python, Linux, and debugging your own workflows, and you can work independently while incorporating feedback. If you have experience in benchmark design or teaching scientific problem-solving, that’s a plus.
Salary Insight
$70.00 - $100.00 per hour, depending on experience and project scope.
Location
Required Skills
Application Tip
Make your application stand out by linking to a GitHub repo or publication that shows a specific research problem you solved with astropy or Python. Also, practice a coding task beforehand — there’s an assessment as part of the evaluation.
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1Application received
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