Quantitative Investment Research Co-op (Equities)

Columbia-Threadneedle-Investments; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 43,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia Threadneedle Investments in Boston is seeking a Quantitative Equity Research Co-op to support systematic equity strategies. You will apply quantitative analysis, develop stock signals, and assist portfolio implementation on a team of seven investment professionals.

This six-month program offers hands-on experience across the investment process, opportunities to work with data science and technology partners, and exposure to machine learning techniques for investment signals.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in statistics, applied mathematics, quantitative finance, economics, computer science, business, or related field.
• Graduation date of December 2027 or May/June 2028.
• Strong interest in the investment management industry and data-driven research.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze factor and model performance.
• Present research findings to team members and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with investment teams, data science, and technology partners.
• Pre-process large data sets for signal processing and model estimation.
• Apply machine learning and generative AI techniques to uncover investment signals.
• Contribute to the team’s development of advanced investment analytics.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Attention to detail

Communication

Time management

Problem solving

Organization

Education

Bachelor's degree (Statistics / Applied Mathematics / Quantitative / Economics / Computer Science / Business)

Tools

R

Python

SQL

Job description

About Our CompanyWorking at Columbia Threadneedle Investments you'll find growth and career opportunities across all of our businesses.We're intentionally built to help you succeed. Our reach is expansive with a Columbia Threadneedle Investments global team of 2,300 people working together. Our capability is diverse with more than 550 investment professionals sharing global perspectives across all major asset classes and markets. Our clients have access to a broad array of investment strategies, and we have the capability to create bespoke solutions matched to clients' specific requirements. Our unwavering focus on our clients and strong financial foundation connects each of our enterprise businesses — Ameriprise Financial, Columbia Threadneedle Investments and RiverSource Insurance and Annuities.Job DescriptionPlease note that applications will be assessed on a rolling basis. Due to anticipated interest, the role may close earlier than the stated deadline. We recommend submitting your application promptly. The advertised closing date is October 3, 2026.At Ameriprise Financial, Columbia Threadneedle Investments, and RiverSource, we're committed to helping early-career talent grow through meaningful work and practical learning. Whether you're joining us as an Intern or Leadership Development Program participant, you'll work alongside experienced colleagues, contribute fresh perspectives, and gain exposure to the people, projects, and experiences that drive our business forward.Guided by our values of excellence in all we do and respect for individuals and our communities, participants will have opportunities to connect with Executive Leadership through our ELT Speaker Series, gaining insights from senior leaders across the business, while also making a positive impact through our annual volunteering day.This is an exciting opportunity to develop your skills, expand your network, and explore what's possible across a global financial services organization.About the RoleAs a Quantitative Equity Research Co-op, you will work with researchers and portfolio managers supporting systematic equity strategies. You will apply quantitative analysis, technology, and creativity to research investment ideas, develop stock selection signals, and support portfolio implementation.This six-month co-op provides hands-on experience across the quantitative investment process and the opportunity to contribute directly to active research initiatives on a team of seven investment professionals.Key ResponsibilitiesMonitor and analyze factor and model performance and contribute to regular performance reportingPresent research findings to team members and key stakeholdersCollaborate with investment teams, data science, and technology partners to support research initiativesWork independently on impactful research and development projects.Pre-process large data sets for signal processing and model estimation, including validation, cleaning, normalization, dimension reduction and visualization.Apply innovative techniques such as machine learning and generative artificial intelligence to uncover differentiated investment signals and enrich our stock selection models.Contribute to the team’s development of advanced investment analytics.Work with portfolio managers to analyze market dynamics and their impact on factor behavior and portfolio performance.Required QualificationsPursuing a bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Quantitative, finance, Economics, Computer Science, Business, or related fieldGraduation date of December 2027 or May/June 2028Passionate about the investment management industry and dedication to being a part of a successful team.Preferred QualifcationsProficient programming skills in R, Python, SQL, or similarHigh degree of self-motivation with strong integrity and ethicsAttention to detailExcellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skillsAbility to multi-task, problem solve independently and think creativelyProven organization skills and ability to manage time effectivelyExperience with large dataset manipulation and statistical analysisVisa SponsorshipApplicants must have a valid work authorization that does not now, or in the future, require visa sponsorship for employment in the United States (e.g., H-1B, F-1 CPT, F-1 OPT, TN).In-Office CollaborationWe are a client-centric, relationship-based business. Working together, in-person, is foundational to how we achieve results. By fostering a culture of face-to-face collaboration, idea sharing, productivity and personal connection, we deliver for our stakeholders — clients, advisors, employees and shareholders. Our employees work in the office at least four (4) days per week, with flexibility to work from home one (1) day per week. Some roles may require additional in-office time or different in-office expectations, and specific requirements will be discussed during the hiring process.Base Pay SalaryThe estimated hourly rate for this role is $32.75 per hour. We have a pay-for-performance compensation philosophy. Your initial total compensation may vary based on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographical work location. In addition, most of our roles are eligible for variable pay in the form of bonus, commissions, and/or long-term incentives depending on the role. We also have a competitive and comprehensive benefits program that supports all aspects of your health and well-being, including but not limited to vacation time, sick time, 401(k), and health, dental and life insurance.Full-Time/Part-TimeFull timeExempt/Non-ExemptNon-ExemptJob Family GroupHuman CapitalLine of BusinessAMINV US Asset ManagementColumbia Threadneedle is a people business, and we recognise that our success is due to our talented people, who bring diversity of thought, complementary skills and capabilities. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and performance-based culture where everyone can belong, grow, contribute and realise their potential.Columbia Threadneedle is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, military status, veteran status, genetic information, citizenship, disability status, marital status, family status or any other basis prohibited by law.We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible recruitment process for individuals with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, speak to your recruiter to discuss how we can support you.