Quantitative Researcher

Akuna Capital; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 117,000 - 143,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Employer-paid medical, dental, vision insurance

Performance bonus

Job summary

A leading trading firm in Chicago is seeking a Quantitative Researcher to develop trading strategies with advanced statistical and machine learning methods. The ideal candidate will have over 3 years of experience, a degree in a technical field, and strong programming skills in Python and C++. Akuna emphasizes collaboration and problem-solving in a fast-paced environment with a compensation package starting at $130,000 and benefits including performance bonuses and medical coverage.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of work experience in statistics or machine learning.
• Proven research background in an academic or professional environment.
• Expertise in statistics and machine learning.

Responsibilities

• Develop trading strategies using statistical and machine learning algorithms.
• Drive improvements in predictive models through rigorous signal and feature research.
• Design and optimize machine learning workflows for efficient research.

Skills

Statistical analysis

Machine learning algorithms

Programming in Python

Programming in C++

Research background

Financial knowledge

Education

BS/MS/PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Math, Physics

Job description

Join to apply for the Quantitative Researcher role at Akuna Capital.

About Akuna

Akuna Capital is an innovative trading firm with a strong focus on collaboration, cutting‑edge technology, data‑driven solutions, and automation. We specialize in providing liquidity as an options market‑maker, designing and implementing our own low‑latency technologies, trading strategies, and mathematical models. Our founding partners first conceptualized Akuna in Sydney; the firm opened its first office in Chicago in 2011 and now operates additional offices in Sydney, Shanghai, London, and Singapore.

What you'll do as a Quantitative Researcher

• Develop trading strategies using statistical and machine learning algorithms
• Drive improvements in predictive models through rigorous signal and feature research
• Design and optimize machine learning workflows to support scalable, efficient, and reproducible research
• Bring a results‑driven mindset paired with strong collaboration and communication skills

Qualities that make great candidates

• 3+ years of strong professional work experience in statistics, machine learning or related area
• BS/MS/PhD degree in a technical field – Engineering, Computer Science, Math, Physics, or similar
• Proven research background in an academic or professional environment
• Programming experience in Python or C++
• Expertise in statistics and machine learning
• Financial experience or knowledge of trading is a plus
• The ability to react quickly and accurately to rapidly changing market conditions, including solving math and coding problems

In addition to technical skillsets, Akuna values the unique perspectives people can bring to the table to collaboratively solve complex problems and drive Akuna forward. We want all groups to feel empowered to apply, even if you don't meet every qualification. We welcome your application and encourage you to take the first steps toward your future with us!

In accordance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, the minimum base salary starts at $130,000. Exact compensation offered may vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's experience, qualifications, and skill set. This role is also eligible for a discretionary performance bonus as part of the total compensation package and includes a comprehensive benefits package that may encompass employer‑paid medical, dental, vision, retirement contributions, paid time off, and other benefits. The minimum base salary herein was determined in good faith by Akuna Capital LLC.

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Finance and Sales

Industry: Capital Markets