Physics & Mathematics Intern

FRAGMENT WORKS PTE. LTD.; Singapore; On-site; SGD 28,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

FRAGMENT WORKS PTE. LTD. seeks quantitative research interns in Singapore to work on US equity signals, backtesting, and data analysis. Interns will use internal quantitative tools and be guided by a research-oriented team.

The role emphasizes strong math ability, data sensitivity, and curiosity. Mandarin is the primary working language, with English used for papers and technical docs.

Qualifications

• Pursuing undergrad (3rd year+) or Master/PhD in physics, math, or related field.
• Strong sensitivity to numbers and data with rigorous scientific approach.
• Familiarity with Python; NumPy and Pandas preferred.
• Mandarin Chinese is the primary working language of the team; English reading of papers used.
• Eligible to undertake an internship in Singapore.
• No prior finance experience required.

Responsibilities

• Research, develop, and validate quantitative trading signals for US equities.
• Backtest trading signals using historical market data.
• Analyze backtesting results and improve signal quality.

Skills

Mathematics

Physics

Python

NumPy

Pandas

Mandarin Chinese

English reading

Data analysis

Scientific thinking

Internship eligibility in Singapore

Education

Undergraduate/Master/PhD in Physics/Mathematics

Tools

AI-assisted programming tools

Job description

Quantitative Research - US Equities

Position Overview

We are looking for talented students from physics, mathematics, and related quantitative disciplines to join us as Quantitative Research Interns in Singapore.

The intern will work on trading signal research, backtesting, and data analysis for the US equity market.

Prior experience in finance or quantitative trading is not required. We are more interested in candidates who are strong in mathematics, sensitive to numbers and data, intellectually curious, and able to approach problems in a rigorous and scientific manner.

The company already has established quantitative research and backtesting frameworks. Interns will receive guidance on how to use these internal tools and apply their analytical skills to real market data.

The team's primary working language is Mandarin Chinese. English is mainly used for reading academic papers, technical documentation, financial data specifications, and occasional external communication.

Location

Singapore

Key Responsibilities

1. Research, develop, and validate quantitative trading signals for US equities, including price, trading volume, volatility, and other market-related signals.
2. Backtest trading signals and strategies using historical market data.
3. Analyse backtesting results, identify patterns and potential issues, and improve the quality of the signals.
4. Process and analyse US equity market data, fundamental data, and other relevant datasets.
5. Use AI-assisted programming tools for data processing, signal research, backtesting, and result analysis.
6. Clearly document research methods, assumptions, results, and conclusions.
7. Review relevant academic papers, research reports, and open-source projects, and explore how useful ideas can be applied to practical research.

Candidate Requirements

1. Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree, preferably in the third or final year, or a Master's or PhD degree.
2. Studying physics, mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, or another quantitative discipline. Candidates from physics and mathematics backgrounds are particularly encouraged to apply.
3. Strong sensitivity to numbers and data, with the ability to identify patterns, anomalies, and potential problems from datasets.
4. Strong mathematical foundation, logical reasoning ability, and scientific problem-solving skills.
5. Familiarity with Python and basic data analysis tools such as NumPy and Pandas is preferred.
6. Comfortable using AI-assisted programming tools, with the ability to understand, test, debug, and validate AI-generated code.
7. Strong intellectual curiosity and willingness to independently investigate unfamiliar problems.
8. Strong interest in applying mathematics, physics, programming, and data analysis to real-world financial market problems.
9. Strong Mandarin Chinese communication skills are required, as Mandarin is the primary working language of the team. Candidates should be able to discuss research ideas, explain results, and collaborate effectively in Mandarin.
10. Good English reading skills are required for understanding academic papers, technical documentation, and financial data specifications. Basic written and verbal communication skills in English are also expected.
11. Detail-oriented, rigorous, and willing to independently verify data, code, and research conclusions.
12. Must be eligible to undertake an internship in Singapore.

Preferred Qualifications

Candidates with any of the following experience will be viewed favourably:

• Awards in mathematics, physics, or informatics competitions during high school
• Experience in mathematical modelling, physics research, ACM, Kaggle, or similar competitions
• Academic research, experimental data analysis, or research paper replication
• Programming or data analysis projects
• Quantitative trading, financial market, or strategy backtesting experience

Prior financial or quantitative trading experience is an advantage but is not required.

What We Value Most

• Strong sensitivity to numbers and data
• Solid training in physics, mathematics, or another quantitative discipline
• Scientific thinking and rigorous research habits
• Intellectual curiosity and willingness to explore new problems
• Strong Mandarin communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to learn quickly and use AI tools effectively
• Willingness to question initial results and independently verify conclusions

Internship Arrangement

• Location: Singapore
• Duration: Preferably at least three months
• Availability: Preferably at least three to four days per week
• Start date: As soon as reasonably possible

Compensation

Monthly internship allowance: S$2,500-S$3,500, depending on the candidate's academic background, research ability, programming skills, and availability.

Exceptional candidates may be considered for higher compensation.

Outstanding interns may have the opportunity to:

• Participate directly in real-world quantitative research projects
• Independently take ownership of selected trading signal research
• Be considered for an extended internship or future full-time position

Application Materials

Please submit:

1. Your CV or résumé
2. Any materials that demonstrate your mathematical, research, or programming abilities, such as:

• GitHub projects
• Academic research projects
• Physics or mathematics competition results
• Mathematical modelling projects
• Data analysis or programming projects
• Research paper replication
• Quantitative strategy or backtesting reports, if available

3. A brief introduction covering:

• Why you are interested in applying mathematics or physics to quantitative research
• One problem or research topic you have previously explored independently
• Your proficiency in Mandarin Chinese and English

Suggested application title:

Physics & Mathematics Intern Application - Name - University - Major - Internship Availability