Quantitative Research Intern, PhD (Summer 2026)

Optiver • Chicago, IL

181d • $80,000 - $90,000

About The Position

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 project 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.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a PhD program in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics or a related STEM field with outstanding academic performance.
• Expected graduation between December 2026 and June 2028.
• Available to intern during Summer 2026.
• Open to full-time opportunities upon graduation in 2027 or 2028.
• Solid foundation in mathematics, probability, and statistics.
• Excellent research, analytical, and modeling skills.
• Independent research experience.
• Proficiency in any programming language.
• Experience in machine learning, with practical applications in time-series analysis and pattern recognition.
• Strong interest in working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Fluent in English with strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Delve into trading fundamentals and engage in a research project that makes a real-world impact.
• Use statistical models and machine learning to develop trading algorithms.
• Leverage big data technologies to analyze high-frequency trading strategies, market microstructure, and financial instruments to identify trading opportunities.
• Build stochastic models to determine the fair value of financial derivatives.
• Combine quantitative analysis and high-performance implementation to ensure the efficiency and accuracy of pricing engines and libraries.

Benefits

• The opportunity to work alongside best-in-class professionals from over 40 different countries.
• The opportunity to earn a return internship or full-time offer in Chicago, Austin, New York City, or Amsterdam based on performance.
• A highly-competitive internship compensation package.
• Optiver-covered flights, living accommodations, and commuting stipends.
• Extensive office perks, including breakfast, lunch and snacks, regular social events, clubs, sporting leagues and more.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees