Astronomy Expert (PhD, Master's, or Olympiad Participants)

This role is for one of the Weekday's clients

Compensation: $60-$80 per hour

We are partnering with a leading AI research lab on an advanced initiative to push the boundaries of astronomy and astrophysics reasoning. This project seeks experienced astronomy experts to design challenging, Olympiad-style problems that deliberately stress-test frontier AI models and reveal gaps in their scientific reasoning.

This is a short-term, high-impact, fully remote opportunity for individuals interested in applying deep domain expertise to cutting-edge AI research, with the possibility of extension based on performance.

Requirements:
Key Responsibilities

• Create original, advanced International Astronomy Olympiad (IAO)-style problems designed to challenge state-of-the-art AI models.
• Evaluate AI-generated responses for correctness, clarity, depth, and quality of reasoning.
• Identify logical errors, incomplete derivations, conceptual gaps, and insufficient scientific rigor in model outputs.
• Develop clear, concise, and fully correct reference solutions, including step-by-step reasoning, formatted in LaTeX.
• Maintain exceptionally high standards of precision, scientific accuracy, and problem difficulty.

Required Qualifications

Mandatory:

• High proficiency in writing and formatting technical content using LaTeX.

You are a strong fit if you meet one or more of the following:

• Hold a Master’s or PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a closely related field.
• Are a current or former participant or medalist in the International Astronomy Olympiad (IAO) or equivalent national/international competitions (e.g., RAO, CAO, USAAO, INAO, BAO, EuAO, AAO, IAO TST, or similar).

Additional Requirements:

• Deep understanding of core theoretical and observational concepts in astronomy and astrophysics.
• Ability to clearly articulate complex reasoning and mathematical derivations in written form.
• Strong judgment in assessing the rigor, structure, and difficulty of advanced astronomy problems.
• Exceptional attention to detail when verifying calculations, assumptions, and conclusions.

Engagement Details

• Time Commitment: Minimum 20 hours per week; up to 40 hours per week available
• Project Duration: Approximately 2 months, with potential extension based on performance and research needs
• Start Timeline: Rolling start dates; onboarding typically completed within 1–2 days of approval
• Work Model: Fully remote with a flexible, self-managed schedule
• Contract Type: Independent contractor

Application Process

• Submit a resume or CV highlighting academic background and astronomy-related achievements.
• Complete a short interview (approximately 20–30 minutes).
• Fill out a brief questionnaire detailing experience with astronomy problem writing and Olympiad participation.
• Selected candidates will be contacted within a few days with next steps.

Contract & Payment Terms

• Independent contractor engagement
• Fully remote, flexible work schedule
• Weekly payments via Stripe or Wise based on services rendered
• Project duration and scope may be adjusted based on performance and project requirements
• No access to confidential or proprietary information from any employer, client, or institution
• Visa sponsorship (H1-B, STEM OPT) is not available