Scientific Computing SME (Physics)
Turing • Remote
Education
Any
Type
hourly
Pay Rate (by country)
$15–$30/hr
Listed
Today
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Turing: our referral track record
We've referred 677 candidates to Turing roles. 2% (15) were placed.
Turing: typical time to hire
Based on 15 tracked placements across all Turing roles on our site.
About this Role
From the Turing listing
About Turing: Based in San Francisco, California, Turing is the world’s leading research accelerator for frontier AI labs and a trusted partner for global enterprises deploying advanced AI systems. Turing supports customers in two ways: first, by accelerating frontier research with high-quality data, advanced training pipelines, plus top AI researchers who specialize in coding, reasoning, STEM, multilinguality, multimodality, and agents; and second, by applying that expertise to help enterprises transform AI from proof of concept into proprietary intelligence with systems that perform reliably, deliver measurable impact, and drive lasting results on the P&L Role Overview: In this role, you will be working on projects to help fine-tune large language models (like ChatGPT) using your strong analytical and English comprehension skills. The ideal candidate should have a solid foundation in Physics, particularly at the level expected in engineering entrance exams, as well as graduate or PhD-level programs. You should be able to break down complex Physics concepts into simple, clear explanations and work efficiently. The projects will also help you learn how to leverage AI to be a better analyst. This is your chance to future-proof your career in an AI-first world! What does day-to-day look like: Design and solve challenging Physics problems to probe the limitations of large language models. Create clear, high-quality, step-by-step solutions with well-articulated reasoning. Collaborate with LLM researchers to align problems with evaluation goals, especially in areas where models typically struggle (e.g., abstraction, multi-step reasoning, symbolic manipulation). Help define new evaluation benchmarks based on Physics curricula spanning early undergraduate to PhD-level topics. Requirements: Analytical Skills: Good research and analytical skills Feedback Skills: Ability to provide constructive feedback and detailed annotations. Creative Thinking: Creative and lateral thinking abilities. Communication: Excellent structured communication and collaboration skills in a remote setting. Independence: Self-motivated and able to work independently in a remote setting. Technical Setup: Desktop/Laptop set up with a good internet connection.Strong proficiency in Python for scientific computing Prefered Qualification: Candidates currently pursuing a Master’s/Ph.D./Postdoctoral degree in Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field are eligible and encouraged to apply. Ability to analyze and solve complex physics problems with a structured and logical approach. Ability to explain physics concepts clearly using simple language, visuals, and physics reasoning. Perks of Freelancing With Turing:
- Work in a fully remote environment.
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge AI projects with leading LLM companies.
- Potential for contract extension based on performance and project needs. Offer Details:Commitments Required : At least 4 hours per day and minimum 20 hours per week with overlap of 4 hours with PST.
- Engagement type : Contractor assignment/freelancer (no medical/paid leave)
- Duration of contract : 3 weeks; [expected start date is next week]
Requirements
- Python
- PhD Physics
- Grad Physics
What to Expect
Looking at Turing STEM listings we've tracked, contracts in this domain typically run about 9.2 weeks. Actual length varies by project, but this gives you a realistic baseline going in.
Based on 19 extracted Turing STEM listings.
Eligible Languages
Fluent proficiency in English
Why This Role
As a Scientific Computing SME (Physics), you don't need prior AI experience to start, just solid STEM knowledge. The rate ($22/hr) and remote setup make it an accessible way into the AI training industry.
Skills & Categories
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a software engineer to work for Turing?
No, not anymore. Turing built its name matching senior engineers with Silicon Valley companies, but it has since expanded into AGI infrastructure work and now hires non-engineering domain experts, technical writers, and researchers for post-training data annotation and RLHF. A strong analytical background and excellent English matter more than coding ability.
How does Turing's talent matching work?
Turing calls it the Intelligent Talent Cloud. You build a profile and go through vetting (automated tests, an AI-powered interview, practical skill assessments), and once vetted, Turing's algorithm surfaces your profile directly to partner companies like Fortune 500s and top AI labs. You don't browse listings or bid on work; matches come to you.
How and when does Turing pay contractors?
Monthly, in USD, via Deel, Payoneer, or direct bank transfer. You're engaged as an independent contractor responsible for your own local taxes. Plan your cash flow around a monthly cycle if you're used to weekly payouts elsewhere.
What does task-based AI training work actually look like?
Practical, hands-on data work: recording short videos, categorizing images, rating text responses, or analyzing data. Tasks are designed to be short and distinct, typically 5 to 60 minutes each.
What does asynchronous AI training work mean in practice?
No set hours, no check-ins, no meetings. You log in when you want, pick up an available task, complete it, and submit; nobody is waiting on you in real time. That's different from remote employment, where you're expected online during business hours. The tradeoff: you're competing with others for available tasks, so an empty queue means there's simply nothing to do until more work is released.
What does STEM work look like for a Scientific Computing SME (Physics)?
Tasks here are scoped to STEM, not generic labeling. As a Scientific Computing SME (Physics), expect to draw on real domain judgment (evaluating outputs, correcting errors, or providing expert reasoning specific to STEM) rather than following a one-size-fits-all rubric. If you don't have hands-on STEM background, this is likely not the right listing to start with.
Do I need to be fluent in English?
Yes. This role specifically requires English proficiency. You will likely be evaluated on written fluency during the assessment, not just conversational level. If English is not your first language or you are not professionally fluent, this is not the right role. Filter for your native language to find better-matched listings.
What happens when I click Apply on this listing?
You'll be taken to Turing's external site to complete your application there. This listing links through a referral, but the process is identical to applying directly; the link just routes you correctly. Create an account on their site and follow their onboarding steps.