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ML Research PhD Experts (ICML / NeurIPS / ICLR Publications)

Mercor

AI Expert - Machine Learning & AI Research Contractor
Remote (Global) $110 – $145/hr July 22, 2026

Job description

Role Overview

Mercor is seeking world-class Machine Learning Research PhD Experts to contribute to frontier AI research initiatives. In this fully remote hourly contract role, you will leverage your expertise in cutting-edge machine learning research to support the development of next-generation AI systems.

This opportunity is intended for researchers with a proven record of publishing original work at premier machine learning conferences such as ICML, NeurIPS, or ICLR. Candidates with multiple top-tier publications and experience advancing state-of-the-art algorithms are strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Contribute Frontier ML Expertise

  • Apply advanced machine learning research knowledge to high-impact AI projects.
  • Support the development of training data and research outputs for frontier AI systems.
  • Provide expert insights into state-of-the-art machine learning methods.

Evaluate Research and AI Outputs

  • Review and assess AI-generated research content for technical accuracy and quality.
  • Apply deep understanding of modern machine learning algorithms and research methodologies.
  • Provide structured feedback to improve AI reasoning and research capabilities.

Collaborate on AI Research

  • Work alongside researchers and AI specialists on frontier machine learning initiatives.
  • Contribute expertise across advanced research domains.
  • Support accelerated project timelines while maintaining high research quality.

Required Qualifications

  • PhD in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a closely related field.

  • Published at least one main conference paper at:

    • ICML
    • NeurIPS
    • ICLR
  • Demonstrated experience conducting original machine learning research.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Two or more publications at ICML, NeurIPS, or ICLR.

  • Research expertise in one or more of:

    • Reinforcement Learning (RL)
    • Meta-Learning
    • Recursive Self-Improvement
    • AI for Science
    • Weather Forecasting
    • Protein Modeling
    • Scientific Discovery
  • Proven track record of advancing state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms.

Compensation

  • $110–$145 per hour
  • Weekly payments via Stripe or Wise

Work Arrangement

  • Fully Remote
  • Independent Contractor
  • Flexible schedule
  • Project-based engagement
  • High-priority engagement with an accelerated timeline
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