Physics Expert (Statistical Physics / Quantum Information / Condensed Matter)

$100–200/hr

rate as listed

Workload: 5–10+ hrs/week
Engagement: Project-based
Location: Worldwide
Field: Sciences

micro1 is contracting physics PhDs to write, critique, and adjudicate hard problems in statistical physics, quantum information, and condensed matter theory for an AI training project. The work centers on disordered Ising/Ashkin-Teller models, the Nishimori line, toric-code thresholds, and 4-state Potts numerics, at an observed $100–200/hr for 5–10+ hours a week.

What the work actually involves

You will be handed physics problems at research level and asked to do one of three things with them: solve them cleanly with documented reasoning (Solver), check someone else's solution line by line and say precisely where it breaks (Auditor), or arbitrate when a solver and auditor disagree (Adjudicator). The subject matter is narrow and specific — replicated random-bond Ising and Ashkin-Teller models, Kramers-Wannier duality and square-lattice self-duality, quenched disorder averaging, domain-wall free energy, the Nishimori line, toric-code error thresholds, and noncontractible loop defects on the torus. A fair share of tasks are numerical: 4-state Potts simulations, finite-size scaling, and the interpretation of results that look ambiguous.

The deliverable is not a paper. It is a written artifact an AI model can learn from: an unambiguous problem statement, a derivation with no skipped algebra, stated assumptions and limits of validity, and a verdict you can defend when challenged. Auditing is where most of the value sits — catching the solution that reaches the right threshold estimate through a wrong duality argument, or that averages over disorder in the wrong order.

What the screen looks for

micro1 runs an AI-led interview. Expect it to probe whether your stated subfield depth survives follow-up questions: not "do you know the Nishimori line" but why the internal energy is exactly computable on it, and what that buys you for the toric code. It also tests calibration — whether you can distinguish a claim you can derive from a claim you half-remember — and whether you can grade someone else's argument rather than just producing your own. No AI or machine-learning background is required or expected.

Logistics

Fully remote, contractor, open worldwide.
5–10+ hours per week, fully flexible; after-hours and weekend work is accommodated.
Work is assigned per project, and your role (Solver / Auditor / Adjudicator) depends on subfield strength.
Pay observed in the $100–200/hr band; actual rate depends on assessed depth and role assignment, and is not guaranteed.

What they look for

PhD (or equivalent research experience) in physics with specialization in statistical physics, quantum information, or condensed matter theory
Hands-on use of Kramers-Wannier duality, square-lattice self-duality, and quenched disorder averaging
Numerical simulation and finite-size scaling analysis of Potts / Ising-type lattice models
Working knowledge of topological quantum codes, especially toric-code error thresholds
Ability to write rigorous, fully documented derivations for a technical reader
Critical review skills — locating the specific step where another physicist's argument fails

Before you apply

Would you pass this screen?

Drawn from what this listing actually requires. Answered in your browser — nothing is sent to us, and we do not store your answers.

Do you hold a PhD in physics, or have equivalent research experience in statistical physics, quantum information, or condensed matter theory?
Doctoral background · required
Have you applied Kramers-Wannier duality, square-lattice self-duality, or quenched disorder averaging in your own research or project work?
Duality and disorder methods · required
Have you personally run and analyzed numerical simulations of Potts or Ising-type lattice models, including finite-size scaling?
Lattice model numerics · preferred
Have you worked with topological quantum codes such as the toric code and its error threshold?
Topological codes · preferred
Can you commit at least 5 hours per week, including flexibility for after-hours or weekend turnaround?
Weekly availability · required
Are you able to work as an independent contractor on a fully remote basis from your current country of residence?
Remote contracting · required

0 of 6 answered

Included with this listing

Interview prep — 10 questions

Matched to what this platform's screening actually measures. Answer each out loud in 60–90 seconds: claim → concrete example → implication.

What it tests: Whether your claimed subfield overlaps the actual task domain (random-bond models, duality, code thresholds) rather than physics generally.
A strong answer: A concrete project: the model and its Hamiltonian, what quantity you extracted, the method (transfer matrix, Monte Carlo, tensor network), lattice sizes, and what the result settled.
Where people lose it: Answering at the level of a thesis abstract. If you cannot name the observable and the numerical method within thirty seconds, the screener reads the expertise as adjacent rather than direct.

Summary, eligibility guidance and screening preparation are prepared by Sidequest from the platform's posting. Check the source listing before applying.