Bilingual Czech STEM Expert (PhD) — AI Safety

The Evolution of AI Safety and the Critical Need for Domain Experts

Artificial intelligence has progressed at a breathtaking pace, evolving from simple pattern-matching algorithms into sprawling frontier models capable of complex reasoning, coding, and creative output. However, as these systems become more powerful, ensuring their absolute safety, factual reliability, and ethical adherence has become one of the tech industry’s most pressing challenges. AI labs can no longer rely solely on automated guardrails or generalized feedback; they need elite, specialized domain experts who can stress-test models in niche, highly technical disciplines.

This is where platforms like Mercor are bridging the gap. By connecting elite global talent with leading artificial intelligence organizations, Mercor facilitates targeted projects that directly train models to safely manage complex scientific content. For advanced researchers, scientists, and PhD holders, this presents an unprecedented pathway to leverage years of academic and professional rigor outside traditional laboratory or academic constraints—all while commanding top-tier hourly compensation.

Detailed Breakdown of the Bilingual Czech STEM Expert Role

The Bilingual Czech STEM Expert (PhD) — AI Safety position is meticulously designed for high-caliber individuals who possess a deep mastery of scientific subfields coupled with native or near-native fluency in Czech and business-level proficiency in English. Because AI models increasingly process multilingual and multi-domain data, specialized evaluations in languages other than English are vital to mitigating regional vulnerabilities and ensuring global safety standards.

Candidates selected for this role will directly impact how frontier models process complex instructions, technical prompts, and safety-sensitive queries. No prior software engineering or machine learning background is required; Mercor provides comprehensive workflow training, allowing you to focus purely on your core scientific domain expertise.

Core Responsibilities

• Expert Prompt Generation: Craft sophisticated, high-level prompts in Czech across rigorous scientific, technical, and laboratory topics to test model limits.
• Response Evaluation & Annotation: Thoroughly review model outputs for scientific accuracy, logical consistency, helpfulness, and the safe handling of sensitive or dual-use information.
• Structured Classification: Apply detailed, framework-driven guidelines to classify prompt-response dialogues, identifying potential safety risks or hallucination vectors.
• Cross-Lingual Quality Assurance: Ensure that nuances, technical terminologies, and contextual meanings translate accurately between Czech and English technical specifications.

Candidate Profile & Qualifications

To succeed in this rigorous assessment environment, applicants must meet specific professional and academic criteria:

• Educational Background: A completed or ongoing PhD in chemistry, biology, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Language Proficiency: Native or near-native fluency in Czech, complemented by strong written and verbal business English.
• Subfield Specialization: Familiarity with modern laboratory frameworks, analytical methods, and computational techniques. Priority is given to deep focus areas such as organic/inorganic synthesis, molecular biology, microbiology, virology, genetics, or specialized material sciences.
• Specialized Nuclear/Chemical Coverage: Candidates with backgrounds in radiochemistry, nuclear chemistry, energetic materials, or radiation physics are warmly welcomed to apply.
• Risk Assessment & Judgment: Sound situational judgment regarding biosafety, biosecurity, chemical safety, and the handling of hazardous or dual-use data.

Contract Terms, Payment Structure, and Flexibility

One of the most appealing aspects of working with Mercor is the absolute autonomy and streamlined administration provided to independent contractors. This position is structured as a fully remote, part-time engagement, giving you the complete freedom to schedule your project hours around your primary research, academic commitments, or personal lifestyle.

Compensation is exceptionally competitive, set firmly between $53 and $57 per hour. Payments are processed reliably on a weekly basis via Stripe or Wise, ensuring you receive timely compensation for services rendered. Furthermore, because you act as an independent contractor, your work remains distinct from and non-conflicting with your primary institutional obligations, as it does not involve access to proprietary employer data.

Why Top Researchers Are Choosing Mercor

Traditional academic and research career paths often lock scientists into rigid institutional silos with limited earning flexibility. Mercor disrupts this paradigm by creating a meritocratic ecosystem where advanced degrees translate directly into high-value remote contracts. Working with leading AI labs not only diversifies your professional portfolio but also places you at the very forefront of technological innovation.

By helping train the next generation of safe, reliable artificial intelligence systems, you play an instrumental role in shaping how society interacts with advanced technology. Whether you are looking to supplement your income, transition into tech-adjacent consulting, or simply apply your PhD knowledge in a novel, high-impact setting, this role offers unmatched professional fulfillment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Your Application

Because these specialized positions attract top-tier talent from across Europe and the globe, completing a thorough and accurate application is paramount. Follow these essential steps to ensure your submission stands out:

1. Prepare Your Credentials: Ensure your CV or resume clearly highlights your PhD status, specific scientific subfields, lab experience, and language proficiencies.
2. Review the Role Requirements: Double-check that your expertise aligns with the targeted biological, chemical, or physical safety parameters outlined in the listing.
3. Submit Through the Official Portal: Use the secure application link below to initiate your profile creation and submission on Mercor.
4. Complete the Verification Steps: Follow all instructions carefully during the intake process to demonstrate your language fluency and domain expertise clearly.

Taking your time to complete every section of the application thoroughly will maximize your chances of immediate placement and fast-track your onboarding with the project team.