Quantitative Research Intern, PhD

4 months ago

Chicago, United States Optiver Full time

As a Quantitative Research Intern, you will work side-by-side with our Research Team of mathematicians, scientists and technologists, to develop and enhance the models that drive Optiver's trading. You will tackle a practical research challenge that has real-world impact and directly influences Optiver's trading decisions. In our business, where the markets are always evolving, you will use your skills to predict its movements.

What you'll do:

Led by our in-house education team, you will delve into trading fundamentals and engage in a research project that makes a real-world impact. You will be paired with one of Optiver's seasoned researchers, providing you exposure to a variety of research areas, including:

  • Using statistical models and machine learning to develop trading algorithms.
  • Leveraging big data technologies to analyze high-frequency trading strategies, market microstructure, and financial instruments to identify trading opportunities.
  • Building stochastic models to determine the fair value of financial derivatives.
  • Combining quantitative analysis and high-performance implementation to ensure the efficiency and accuracy of pricing engines and libraries.
Based on your performance during the internship, you could receive an offer to join our firm full-time after your studies or return as an intern the following summer, depending on when you graduate.

What you'll get:

You'll join a culture of collaboration and excellence where you'll be surrounded by curious thinkers and creative problem solvers. Motivated by a passion for continuous improvement, you'll thrive in a high-performing environment alongside talented colleagues working collectively to tackle the toughest challenges in the financial markets.

Additionally, you'll receive:
  • A highly-competitive internship compensation package
  • Optiver-covered flights, living accommodations and commuting stipends (where applicable)
  • Office perks, including fully paid commuting expenses, daily breakfast and lunch, social events and clubs
Who you are:
  • Currently enrolled in a PhD program in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics or a related STEM field with outstanding academic performance
  • Anticipated graduation date between December 2025 and June 2027
  • Availability to commence full-time employment upon graduation in 2026 or 2027
  • Must be available to intern during Summer 2025
  • Solid foundation in mathematics, probability, and statistics
  • Excellent research, analytical, and modeling skills
  • Independent research experience
  • Proficiency in any programming language
  • Knowledge of machine learning, time-series analysis, pattern recognition, and NLP is a plus
  • Strong interest in working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
  • Fluent in English with strong written and verbal communication skills


Diversity statement

Optiver is committed to diversity and inclusion.

For answers to some of our most frequently asked questions, refer to our Campus FAQs.

Optiver is supportive of US immigration sponsorship for this role.

*We accept one application per role per year. If you have previously applied to this position during this season and have been unsuccessful, you can reapply once the next recruitment season begins in 2025.

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