Research Assistant

Role Overview

Keystone Recruitment is partnering with a leading AI research team on a large-scale supervised fine-tuning (SFT) initiative aimed at improving how advanced language models respond to real-world questions. We are seeking strong writers and critical thinkers to contribute as independent contractors on a flexible, project-based basis. This opportunity is ideal for individuals with excellent reasoning and communication skills who are interested in contributing to applied AI research while maintaining control over their schedule.

Key Responsibilities of a Research Assistant

• Create realistic prompts that reflect how people naturally ask questions across general topics.
• Review and edit AI-generated responses for clarity, accuracy, and usefulness.
• Write high-quality human-authored responses to selected prompts.
• Generate small variations of prompts to test nuanced differences in model behavior.
• Evaluate responses across varying lengths, tones, and instructional styles.
• Identify ambiguities, weaknesses, or failure cases in model outputs.

Ideal Qualifications

• Current undergraduate or graduate student, or recent graduate.
• Strong written communication and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to synthesize information clearly and accurately.
• High attention to detail and comfort comparing similar written responses.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote environment.
• Applicants from diverse academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Engagement Details

• Fully remote and asynchronous – work on your own schedule.
• Expected commitment: approximately 10–40 hours per week.
• Project-based engagement with potential for extension based on project needs.
• Work performed on an independent contractor basis.

Compensation & Contract Terms

This Research Assistant position offers $35–$45 per hour, based on experience and performance, under an independent contractor classification.

Application Process

To apply for the Research Assistant role:

• Submit your resume.
• Complete a brief background form.
• Selected applicants will be invited to complete a short sample task.

We consider all qualified applicants without regard to legally protected characteristics and provide reasonable accommodations upon request.

Key skills/competency

• AI Research
• Language Models
• Supervised Fine-Tuning (SFT)
• Critical Thinking
• Written Communication
• Data Annotation
• Content Evaluation
• Prompt Engineering
• Natural Language Processing (NLP)
• Independent Work