Biotechnology Research Scientist - Genomics

Role Overview

Mercor is partnering with leading AI labs to engage experienced biotechnology research scientists — molecular biologists, genomicists, proteomics specialists, and biotech R&D professionals — to improve AI systems' reasoning around biological research methodologies, data interpretation, and experimental design. Contributors will apply their expertise in areas such as next-generation sequencing, protein structure and function, molecular cloning, and drug discovery research to evaluate and enhance AI performance on biotechnology research-specific tasks. This is a project-based opportunity with potential for ongoing engagement depending on performance and project needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and evaluate AI-generated outputs related to experimental design, genomic data analysis, protein characterization, and biotech research methodologies
• Create realistic scenarios based on laboratory and research workflows — gene expression analysis, CRISPR experimental protocols, proteomics data interpretation, assay development, and preclinical research planning
• Annotate, label, and validate data across biotech research use cases (e.g., sequencing pipeline accuracy, variant interpretation, pathway analysis, molecular target identification)
• Provide structured feedback on AI accuracy in areas such as molecular biology techniques, genomics and proteomics standards, regulatory guidelines for research (GLP, IRB requirements), and scientific literature interpretation
• Collaborate asynchronously with research teams to refine evaluation frameworks for biotechnology research AI

Ideal Qualifications

• 3+ years of professional or postdoctoral research experience in biotechnology, genomics, proteomics, or molecular biology
• Background in one or more areas such as:
  • Genomics and next-generation sequencing (NGS) — library prep, variant calling, bioinformatics pipelines
  • Proteomics — mass spectrometry, protein expression, structural biology
  • Molecular biology — cloning, gene editing (CRISPR/Cas9), PCR, cell culture
  • Drug discovery or target identification (lead optimization, HTS, biomarker development)
  • Bioinformatics or computational biology supporting wet-lab research
• Advanced degree (MS, PhD) in a relevant life sciences field strongly preferred
• Professional experience at a biotech company, CRO, academic research lab, or pharmaceutical R&D organization
• Strong analytical thinking and ability to translate complex research workflows into structured evaluation tasks
• Clear written communication and attention to detail

Compensation Note

• Task Completion Pay: Competitive and based on task quality (~$1,150 – $1,450 per completed task, subject to change as the project evolves)
• Performance Bonus: Top performers receive a weekly bonus incentive on top of their per task rate!
• Hourly Opportunity: Top performers may be invited to transition to an hourly compensation model based on sustained quality and throughput.