Research Associate - Wealth Management Portfolio Research

Northern Trust•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The Research Associate in Wealth Management Portfolio Research (WMPR) works with WMPR Directors and Investment Research Analysts to support the Wealth Management investment process. The Research Associate is responsible for supporting work related to investment analytics, asset allocation, portfolio construction, manager selection and monitoring, and best practices in portfolio management. Applies quantitative and programming expertise to achieve objectives through hands-on analytical and technical work. Utilizes skills typically gained through formal education and relevant professional experience to develop, enhance, and maintain analytical tools, data pipelines, and research outputs. Requires working knowledge of data analysis, programming, and investment concepts to support portfolio research and decision-making. Continues to build knowledge of the firm, investment processes, and client needs. Performs a range of analytical and technical assignments using established guidelines and best practices, while exercising judgment in straightforward situations. Receives a moderate level of guidance and direction.

Requirements

Strong quantitative knowledge, including statistics and data analytics, with the ability to apply analytical techniques to investment research and portfolio analysis.
Technical and programming skills in data analysis languages (R and/or Python preferred).
Proficiency in Excel, databases, and other analytical software; experience with investment and market data platforms (e.g., Morningstar Direct, eVestment, Bloomberg, FactSet) is a plus.
General knowledge of financial markets, asset classes, and investment concepts, with an interest in investing and portfolio management.
Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new tools, programming languages, concepts, and technologies.
Strong communication skills, including writing, presentation, and data visualization.
Critical thinking skills, attention to detail, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work both collaboratively and independently.
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a quantitative or computing-related field.
2+ years of relevant professional experience in investment research, data analytics, financial analysis, or a related quantitative role.
Demonstrated hands-on experience using R or Python to perform data analysis, automate workflows, build analytical tools, or support research and portfolio analytics.
Experience supporting data-intensive projects, including data sourcing, management, analysis, and reporting.
Demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and contribute to both routine and ad hoc research initiatives.

Nice To Haves

Prior software or application development experience is a plus.
Experience with cloud-based technologies (e.g., Microsoft Azure) is a plus.
Interest in pursuing, or progress toward, the CFA designation is a plus.

Responsibilities

Conducts preliminary investment research and analysis
Responsible for data sourcing, data management, and data analytics
Compiles and generates reports as needed
Web Application/tool development and updates
Responsible for collateral material updates
Works on ad hoc projects for WMPR and the National Investment Practice
Solves problems in straightforward situations
Analyzes possible solutions using technical experience and judgment and precedents
Impacts quality of own work and the work of others on the team
Works within guidelines and policies

Benefits

Northern Trust provides a comprehensive benefits package including retirement benefits (401k and pension), health and welfare benefits (medical, dental, vision, spending accounts and disability), paid time off, parental and caregiver leave, life & accident insurance, and other voluntary and well-being benefits.
Northern Trust also provides a discretionary bonus program that may include an equity component.

Stand Out From the Crowd

Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.

Upload and Match Resume