Graduate Quantitative Researcher (BS/MS)

IMC Trading; Illinois; On-site; USD 225,000 - 275,000; Full time

Job summary

IMC Trading in Illinois seeks a Quantitative Researcher to advance trading strategies by applying rigorous quantitative methods and working closely with Traders and Developers. This role emphasizes problem solving, innovation, and teamwork within a research-driven environment.

The position requires a student graduating in 2026-2027 with a highly quantitative degree and programming skills (Python, C/C++). Base salary is generous and accompanied by a discretionary bonus and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Current university student graduating between Sep 2026 and Jul 2027 in a highly quantitative field.
• Passion for research and problem solving.
• Strong data analysis approach and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Apply quantitative techniques to solve complex problems.
• Build custom tools to explore research ideas.
• Design mathematical models based on trading ideas.
• Implement and deploy models into production.
• Maintain best practices for reliable systems.

Skills

Quantitative research

C/C++

Python

Mathematics

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mathematics/Engineering/Statistics/Physics/CS

Tools

Python

C/C++

Job description

As a Quantitative Researcher at IMC, your work will directly impact our global trading strategies. You will leverage your superior analytical, mathematical, and computing skills to improve existing models and develop new ones. We will empower you to discover your unique niche and excel, taking on responsibility and ownership from the start. Quantitative Researchers work closely with Traders and Developers in an environment where problem solving, innovation and teamwork are recognized and rewarded.

Your Core Responsibilities:

• Apply rigorous analytical and quantitative techniques to solve complex problems

• Build custom tools to explore new research ideas

• Design mathematical models based upon trading ideas

• Implement and deploy new models into production

• Maintain best practices to keep our systems logical and consistent

Your Skills and Experience:

• Current university student graduating between September 2026 - July 2027 that is pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mathematics, Engineering, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, or another highly quantitative field

• Has a passion for research and problem solving

• Approaches data analysis with rigorous thought processes and strong intuition

• Is a creative thinker who is driven and eager to solve challenging problems collaboratively

• Proficiency in a programming language (Python, C, C++, etc) is highly desired

• Must be available for full-time employment starting in February or August 2027

The Base Salary range for the role is included below. Base salary is only one component of total compensation; all full-time, permanent positions are eligible for a discretionary bonus and benefits, including paid leave and insurance. Please visit Benefits - US | IMC Trading for more comprehensive information.

Base Salary: $250,000

About Us

IMC is a research-driven trading firm where quantitative modeling, machine learning, and engineering shape how modern markets are traded. A stabilizing force in markets since 1989, we provide liquidity across trading venues, delivering the best outcome in value and risk management to investors. Using our own technology and capital, we build proprietary systems and algorithms that operate across global markets. Our researchers, traders, and engineers work as a collective, combining rapid experimentation, advanced infrastructure, and real-time feedback to turn insight into execution and execution into advantage.