We are looking for Principal Research Scientist (Computer Science / Computational Physics) candidates for a project delivered through the hiring partner.
What you'll do
- Identify, frame, and articulate foundational open problems, theoretical bounds, or simulation challenges where verifiable progress can be demonstrated.
- Guide AI models and agents in multi-step research processes—ranging from proofs and algorithms to numerical experiments and high-performance simulations.
- Critically assess and validate results, utilizing proof checks, computational reproduction, and formal methods to pinpoint the limits of model-generated reasoning.
- Evaluate and document the novelty, correctness, and significance of research outputs relative to current literature and established results.
- Produce clear, concise research memos detailing research attempts, partial solutions, and observed model limitations or failure patterns.
- Advise on research directions, recommending promising subfields and open problems suitable for advancement via AI models and computational tools.
What you need
- No prior experience in AI is required — your domain knowledge is what matters.
Nice to have
- Recognition at the field level—such as major prizes, society fellowships, or plenary/invited talks at top scholarly events.
- A consistent publication record in leading venues within your domain, with recent results published in the past year.
- Demonstrated success resolving named open problems or introducing influential concepts adopted by peers.
- Deep, hands-on experience with computational research methods: simulation, numerical analysis, algorithmic implementation, and/or high-performance computing environments.
- Proven ability to rigorously examine technical work outside your immediate area of expertise.
- Experience on program committees, editorial boards, or with formal research tools (e.g., Lean, Coq, SAT/SMT solvers) is a strong plus, as is a public record of outlining open problems or showcasing research with advanced AI systems.
Expertise
Who you work with
Project and contracting process: the hiring partner. Applications continue on the provider's website.
Pay and hours
This role pays $100–$400/hr. That is about 194% above the $85 an hour median for science & research roles open now.
Who can apply from where
The provider has not confirmed country eligibility. Check the original offer before applying. With a profile, Tier1 checks your country and languages against this role and every other before you apply.

