Statistics Expert (PhD) — Remote AI Training Consultant

About OpenTrain

OpenTrain is the #1 platform for finding and building careers in AI training and data labeling. We help freelancers consolidate proof-of-work, discover projects that match their skills, and grow a durable portfolio in the human side of AI development.

Why AI training work matters

AI training (data labeling, annotation, and human feedback) is how modern models learn from human expertise. Contributors shape model behavior by writing examples, rating outputs, and providing precise feedback — work that’s highly flexible, remote, and accessible to specialists and non-specialists alike.

• 100% remote: work from anywhere with an internet connection
• Flexible, part-time projects that fit around other commitments
• Directly influence how state-of-the-art AI systems behave

The role

OpenTrain is recruiting a Statistics Expert (PhD) to provide structured expert answers, review model outputs, and write clear explanations so AI systems learn from rigorous statistical reasoning. Prior AI training experience is not required; the role centers on deep real-world statistical knowledge and precise written communication.

• Write or refine expert-level responses and show clear reasoning
• Evaluate model outputs and source materials against project rubrics
• Provide feedback that can be directly used to improve model behavior
• Maintain consistency and high quality across repeated review tasks

What you'll do day-to-day

This is hands-on annotation and evaluation work: you will craft or improve model answers, judge responses using detailed guidelines, and record explanations that teach models how to reason about statistical problems.

• Produce expert responses on statistical topics and document reasoning
• Compare model outputs to reference solutions and apply rubrics consistently
• Flag errors, suggest improvements, and explain trade-offs clearly
• Work independently to meet quality and consistency targets

Requirements

You must have a PhD-level background in statistics or a closely related field and strong written communication skills. The role demands careful attention to detail and the ability to follow written project instructions and rubrics.

• PhD in Statistics or a closely related field
• Demonstrated expertise in core and advanced areas: probability, inference, Bayesian methods, experimental design, computational statistics, or biostatistics
• Exceptional written communication for conveying complex concepts precisely
• Ability to follow project rubrics and apply criteria consistently
• Comfort working independently as a remote contractor
• Fluency in English
• Familiarity with MySQL and advanced data analysis techniques is preferred
• Experience creating, reviewing, or publishing technical or scientific materials in statistics

Schedule, pay, and project length

This is a part-time contractor role with flexible scheduling. Typical engagement is about 20 hours per week for 1–3 months, though weekly hours may vary by project needs.

• Pay: $90–$120 per hour
• Estimated project earnings: $14,400–$19,200 based on ~20 hrs/week over 1–3 months
• Contractor, part-time engagement

Who should apply

Apply if you hold a PhD in statistics (or equivalent), enjoy explaining technical ideas in writing, and want flexible, remote work that directly shapes AI behavior. Prior AI training experience is helpful but not required.

• Ideal for academic researchers, senior statisticians, or technical authors with strong statistical backgrounds
• Good fit for people seeking part-time, remote consulting in AI training

How it works on OpenTrain

If selected you’ll work as a contractor through OpenTrain: build or use your OpenTrain profile to apply, complete project tasks in the platform’s workflow, and receive pay per the contract. OpenTrain helps you consolidate proof-of-work so you can grow a long-term portfolio in AI training.

• Worldwide applicants welcome; English fluency required
• Apply through your OpenTrain profile and follow the project onboarding steps