Physics Expert

Opportunity Overview

Handshake is looking for experienced computational and theoretical physicists to support AI research through flexible, part-time contract work. This is not a traditional job — you'll draw on your hands-on experience in numerical simulation, scientific computing, or your physics subfield to evaluate AI-generated content and provide feedback that helps AI reason like a practicing physicist.

This is an ongoing, project-based opportunity you can take on alongside your current role.

What You'll Do

Use your domain expertise to create expert-level physics problems and scenarios grounded in real simulation, modeling, and computational workflows

Review and evaluate AI-generated responses for technical accuracy, numerical rigor, and alignment with how the work is actually done

Provide structured written feedback to help improve AI model performance

Complete tasks at your own pace with no set schedule or minimum hour requirement

Qualifications

Ideal candidates meet all three of the following:

Industry/research experience — first-author publications in a computational subfield or 2+ years of hands-on industry experience

Degree — PhD in Physics, with a computational or theoretical focus

Sub-domain depth — demonstrated expertise in one of the following areas:

Numerical simulation, PDE/ODE solvers, and Monte Carlo methods

HPC and scientific computing (NumPy/SciPy, C++/Fortran)

A core subfield such as condensed matter, astrophysics, high-energy physics, or fluid dynamics

Candidates who meet at least 2 of the 3 qualifications above are also encouraged to apply.

Additional qualifications (not required, but strengthen your application)

Proficiency running large-scale simulations on HPC clusters across multiple scientific computing environments

Experience with lattice methods or other specialized techniques within your subfield

Required for all applicants

Must have US work authorization

Strong written communication and attention to detail

Ability to explain complex physics concepts clearly

Ability to work independently in a remote, asynchronous environment

Work authorization information

F-1 students who are eligible for CPT or OPT may be eligible for projects on Handshake AI. Work with your Designated School Official to determine your eligibility.  If your school requires a CPT course, Handshake AI may not meet your school’s requirements. STEM OPT is not supported. See our Help Center article for more information on what types of work authorizations are supported on Handshake AI.