Quantitative Researcher

Akuna Capital•Chicago, IL

29d•$130,000

About The Position

Akuna Capital is an innovative trading firm with a strong focus on collaboration, cutting-edge technology, data driven solutions, and automation. We specialize in providing liquidity as an options market-maker - meaning we are committed to providing competitive quotes that we are willing to both buy and sell. To do this successfully, we design and implement our own low latency technologies, trading strategies, and mathematical models. Our Founding Partners first conceptualized Akuna in their hometown of Sydney. They opened the firm's first office in 2011 in the heart of the derivatives industry and the options capital of the world - Chicago. Today, Akuna is proud to operate from additional offices in Sydney, Shanghai, London, and Singapore. Akuna's Trading and Research teams are seeking Quant Researchers to join a multidisciplinary group of mathematicians, statisticians, technologists and traders. These teams drive the development of trading strategies and predictive models by combining quantitative rigor with deep expertise in financial markets. We are looking for talented researchers who can apply and develop machine learning algorithms to contribute to Akuna's strategy portfolio. In this role, you will: Please note that level/title, as well as team placement, will be determined upon the conclusion of the interview process. If you are a current student or recent graduate, please take a look at our Entry Level and Intern positions. In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the minimum base salary starts at $130,000. Exact compensation offered may vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's experience, qualifications, and skill set. This role is also eligible for a discretionary performance bonus as part of the total compensation package and includes a comprehensive benefits package that may encompass employer-paid medical, dental, vision, retirement contributions, paid time off, and other benefits. The minimum base salary herein was determined in good faith by Akuna Capital LLC.

Requirements

3+ years of strong professional work experience in statistics, machine learning or related area
BS/MS/PhD degree in a technical field - Engineering, Computer Science, Math, Physics, or similar
Proven research background in academic or professional environment
Programming experience in Python or C++
Expertise in statistics and machine learning
The ability to react quickly and accurately to rapidly changing market conditions, including the ability to quickly and accurately respond and/or solve math and coding problems are essential functions of the role

Nice To Haves

Financial experience or knowledge of trading is a plus

Responsibilities

Develop trading strategies using statistical and machine learning algorithms
Drive improvements in predictive models through rigorous signal and feature research
Design and optimize machine learning workflows to support scalable, efficient, and reproducible research
Bring a results-driven mindset paired with strong collaboration and communication skills.