Graduate Quantitative Researcher, PhD

As a Graduate Quantitative Researcher, you will develop, refine and implement algorithmic trading strategies that shape the future of electronic trading. Working alongside a research team of mathematicians, scientists and technologists, you will leverage vast data sets to construct complex models to predict market movements. With your expertise in statistics and exceptional analytical and research skills, you will develop innovative solutions that are foundational to Optiver’s trading strategies.

What you’ll do:

Your onboarding

You will participate in Optiver’s comprehensive Global Academy and be equipped with the knowledge needed to make an impact the moment you join your team. The comprehensive training covers trading theory and Optiver’s tech stack to hone your skills for your role. In addition, you will be paired with a dedicated mentor who will empower you to take ownership of your work and make a difference.

Your responsibilities

As a Quantitative Researcher, you will have the opportunity to contribute to several key areas:

• 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.

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 supportive, high-performing environment alongside talented colleagues, working collectively to tackle the toughest problems in the financial markets.

In addition, you’ll receive:

• The opportunity to work alongside best-in-class professionals from over 40 different countries

• A highly competitive compensation package

• Global profit-sharing pool and performance-based bonus structure

• 401(k) match up to 50%

• Comprehensive health, mental, dental, vision, disability and life coverage

• 25 paid vacation days alongside market holidays

• Extensive office perks, including breakfast, lunch and snacks, regular social events, clubs, sporting leagues and more

Who you are:

• PhD in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, or a related STEM field, with outstanding academic achievements

• Expected graduation date between December 2024 and Spring 2025

• Availability to commence full-time employment upon graduation in 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

Who we are: (Include this only when on job boards or LinkedIn, but not on our website)

At Optiver, our mission is to improve the market by injecting liquidity, providing accurate pricing, increasing transparency and stabilising the market no matter the conditions. With a focus on continuous improvement, we prioritise safeguarding the health and efficiency of the markets for all participants. As one of the largest market making institutions, we are a respected partner on 100+ exchanges across the globe.

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.