Graduate Quantitative Researcher, PhD (2027 Start)

Optiver • Chicago, IL

15h • Onsite

About The Position

As a Graduate Quantitative Researcher, you’ll tackle some of the most challenging quantitative problems in global financial markets. Working alongside researchers, engineers, and traders, you’ll analyze large-scale datasets, develop predictive models and algorithms, and apply statistical and machine learning techniques to better understand market behavior and identify trading opportunities. Research at Optiver is highly applied and end-to-end. You’ll frame research questions, test hypotheses, develop and validate models, and see your ideas evaluated in live market environments. Combining rigorous scientific thinking with modern AI-enabled research infrastructure, you’ll transform insights into solutions that directly influence how we trade. This opportunity is also available in our Austin office.

Requirements

• PhD in Statistics, Computer Science, Machine Learning, Mathematics, or a related STEM field, with outstanding academic achievements
• Expected to graduate by mid-2027 and available to start full-time employment upon graduation
• Solid foundation in mathematics, probability, and statistics
• Excellent research, analytical, and modeling skills
• Experience applying machine learning methods to real-world research problems, such as time-series analysis, prediction, forecasting, pattern recognition, optimization, or decision-making
• Proficiency in any programming language
• Strong interest in working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
• Fluent in English with strong written and verbal communication skills

Responsibilities

• Develop predictive models and machine learning systems to better understand market behavior and identify trading opportunities
• Analyze large-scale market and order-flow data to uncover signals, evaluate hypotheses, and improve trading performance
• Build and test statistical and stochastic models for pricing, forecasting, and risk management
• Apply modern research techniques, including deep learning and AI-enabled workflows, to accelerate discovery and improve research efficiency

Benefits

• 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, snacks, regular social events, clubs, sporting leagues, and more

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree