Principal Quantitative Researcher - Systematic

Chicago Trading Company; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 250,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous time off

Insurance coverage

Paid parental leave

Free breakfast and lunch

Wellness reimbursement

Job summary

Chicago Trading Company is seeking a quantitative researcher with a PhD in a Science or Engineering field and over 10 years of experience in systematic trading. This role involves defining a revenue vision, conducting research, and developing innovative models while collaborating across teams.

Top candidates will possess exceptional Python programming skills, analytical prowess, and a strong track record of generating positive returns. The compensation package includes a salary range of $250,000—$300,000 USD with benefits.

Qualifications

• 10+ years experience as a quantitative researcher in a top systematic trading team.
• Proven ability to generate positive PnL through independent research.
• Exceptional communication skills for complex ideas and results.

Responsibilities

• Define a long-term vision for new revenue sources.
• Conduct research while supporting colleagues in their work.
• Direct infrastructure development across pricing models.

Skills

Quantitative research

Python

Analytical skills

Communication

Software development lifecycle

Education

PhD in Science or Engineering

Tools

NumPy

Pandas

Job description

What You’ll Do

• Define and articulate a long‑term vision that will lead to new sources of revenue, evolving with business needs and market structure
• Conduct commercially focused revenue generating research, while supporting others with their research
• Develop a structured roadmap and ensure quant functions remain focused, aligned, and accountable
• Direct development of innovative infrastructure across pricing models and research platforms
• Foster coordination across risk management, development, and quantitative research to drive measurable business impact
• Provide thought leadership while applying academic rigor to practical trading applications

What We’re Looking For

• PhD in Science or Engineering fields (e.g. Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, Operations Research, Electrical Engineering) strongly preferred
• Experience in a top systematic trading team with at least 10 years as a quantitative researcher
• Proven ability to conduct independent, high‑quality research
• Demonstrable track record of generating positive PnL
• Exceptional ability to communicate complex ideas and research results, both in writing and verbally
• Experience with the software development lifecycle and advanced programming skills
• Unique combination of analytical prowess, programming skills, and acute understanding of business
• Unwavering commitment to quality, coupled with a drive for delivering commercial outcomes
• Strong Python skills including NumPy and Pandas libraries

Nice to Haves

• Management experience leading a healthy and empowered team, driving accountability
• Experience with a wide variety of market and alternative data
• Expertise in U.S. options markets, options pricing models, volatility surfaces, and risk management techniques
• Strong Python skills including NumPy and Pandas libraries
• Strong track record of publications in an industry setting

Compensation

Salary Range: $250,000—$300,000 USD

Eligible for an annual discretionary bonus based on skills, experience, qualifications and firm performance

Our Benefits

We strongly believe in the well‑being of employees and their families. We offer generous time off, insurance coverage, paid parental leave, free breakfast and lunch, wellness reimbursement, and many other benefits to support a healthy work‑life balance

Interns and contractors are not eligible for benefits

Most teams follow a hybrid workplace model, subject to change based on business need

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

At CTC, we aim to cultivate a workplace that celebrates diversity and where each person feels included, engaged and empowered. We are committed to having a diverse workforce and are proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer. CTC does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability status. The company will provide reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities