Graduate Quantitative Researcher

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 Graduate 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:

• A performance-based bonus structure unmatched anywhere in the industry. We combine our profits across desks, teams and offices into a global profit pool
• The opportunity to work alongside best-in-class professionals from over 40 different countries

• 25 paid vacation days and fully paid first-class commuting expenses
• Training opportunities and discounts on health insurance
• Extensive office perks, including breakfast and lunch, world-class barista coffee, sports and leisure activities, Friday afternoon drinks, and weekly in-house chair massages
• Competitive relocation packages and visa sponsorship where necessary for expats

Who you are

• Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, or a related STEM field, with outstanding academic achievements
• Graduating by 2025, or a maximum of 3 years work experience
• Solid foundation in mathematics, probability, and statistics
• Excellent research, analytical and modelling skills
• Independent research experience
• Proficiency in any programming language
• Knowledge of machine learning, time-series analysis and pattern recognition 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.

We encourage applications from candidates from any and all backgrounds, and we welcome requests for reasonable adjustments during the process to ensure that you can best demonstrate your abilities. Please let us know if you would like to request any reasonable adjustments by contacting the Recruitment team via [email protected].

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

For applicants based in India, our entry route is via the placement office internship hiring season (July/August).

*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.