Human-AI Interface Research Assistant

About The Role

Autopoiesis Sciences is a San Francisco-based AI lab building systems that can do science autonomously. We are building the architectures, training methods, and reasoning systems that give AI the judgment to pursue discovery on its own, working the full stack from how scientific reasoning is distilled into models to how the research process itself can be made autonomous. We are backed by Informed Ventures, Alpaca VC, and VitalStage Ventures, Adam Grosser, Ally Warson, Hiro Mizushima, Mike Mahklow, Cross Atlantic Angels, and others.

We are currently testing a newly trained autonomous AI system across a broad range of real-world tasks and need sharp, curious people to help us do it. Our AI reasons and plans autonomously, then relays instructions to a human operator who executes them across whatever interface the task requires. For the purposes of this research, it is the most direct way to study unconstrained autonomous behavior at the fidelity we need. You are the hands. The AI is the brain. Together, you close the loop.

What You'll Be Doing

• Receiving real-time instructions from an autonomous AI system and executing them accurately across whatever interface the task requires
• Logging outcomes, flagging ambiguities, and providing structured feedback that feeds directly into our research
• Working alongside ML researchers and engineers to help refine evaluation protocols as the project evolves
• Participating in debrief sessions where your observations shape how we understand and improve the system
• Occasionally supporting broader lab operations and research workflows as needed

Who We're Looking For

• Curious about AI research and autonomous systems, whether through coursework, personal interest, or prior experience
• No degree required, but a background or active interest in STEM is a plus
• Comfortable following precise technical instructions quickly and accurately
• Detail-oriented enough to notice when something unexpected happens and articulate it clearly
• Interested in how autonomous AI systems actually behave outside of demos and papers
• Reliable, communicative, and able to work on-site at our SF office and warehouse space

Compensation and Benefits

• Duration: 3 months with potential for extension
• Mentorship from researchers and engineers working on autonomous AI systems
• Collaborate in building a thoughtful, mission-driven team culture focused on autonomous scientific discovery
• Compensation packages are variable based on experience, expertise, and contribution potential. If your expectations fall outside our stated range, we encourage you to apply regardless. The range for this role is $25/hr-35/hr

Get To Know Us

We're a dedicated team of scientists, researchers, and engineers who believe deeply in the transformative potential of our work. You'll work closely with our leadership team including Chief Executive Officer Joseph Reth (Attended University for CS at 14, former DARPA), Chief Business Officer Dr. Eike Gerhardt (University of Tübingen PhD, University of Tübingen staff), Chief Scientist Dr. Larry Callahan (University of Chicago PhD, former FDA, former NIH), and VP of Research Vincent Karpf (UC Berkeley).

Application Process: Due to the high volume of automated applications, we only accept applications through LinkedIn as it helps us connect with genuine candidates. We have systems in place to detect automated submissions and strongly advise against using bots or automated tools in your application process. Please be human in your approach.

Equal Opportunity: Autopoiesis Sciences, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected characteristics.