About the role#
As a Quantitative Research Intern, you will work with researchers, engineers, and traders to solve quantitative problems in global financial markets. You will follow an apprentice-style model, working directly with an experienced researcher on a project aligned with current business needs. This role is open to PhD students who are interested in how research translates into live trading strategies.
What you'll do#
- Develop predictive models and machine learning systems to 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 research efficiency.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a PhD program in Statistics, Computer Science, Machine Learning, Mathematics, or a related STEM field.
- Outstanding academic performance with expected graduation between December 2027 and June 2029.
- A solid foundation in mathematics, probability, and statistics.
- Excellent research, analytical, and modeling skills.
- Experience applying machine learning methods to real-world problems like time-series analysis, prediction, forecasting, pattern recognition, or optimization.
- Proficiency in at least one programming language.
- Fluency in English with strong written and verbal communication skills.
Location & details#
- Locations: Chicago, Illinois or Austin, Texas.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: This is a full-time, on-site internship.
- Compensation: The base salary range is $80,000 to $100,000 USD, plus a sign-on bonus. Optiver covers flights, living accommodations, and commuting stipends.
- Sponsorship: US immigration sponsorship is supported for this role.
About Optiver
Optiver is a global electronic market maker founded in 1986. The firm provides liquidity for listed derivatives, cash equities, ETFs, bonds, and foreign currencies. It operates from offices in cities including Amsterdam, Chicago, Sydney, and Singapore. The company employs between 1,001 and 5,000 people.
How to get in at Optiver
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