Principal Quant Researcher Full Time

Principal Quantitative Researcher

About the Organization

A leading global trading firm is seeking a Principal Quantitative Researcher to play a key role in advancing its research and trading capabilities. The firm is known for its collaborative environment, long-term strategic focus, and commitment to rigorous scientific and ethical standards. With a strong history of innovation and a culture that emphasizes trust, curiosity, and continuous improvement, the organization empowers teams to tackle complex market challenges and develop impactful solutions.

Quantitative research is central to the firm’s trading operations and is a major driver of growth and technological evolution. This role offers the opportunity to influence research direction at scale, guide cross-functional initiatives, and shape the development of next-generation trading systems.

Responsibilities

• Define and communicate a long-term research strategy aligned with market structure evolution and business objectives.
• Lead revenue-driven quantitative research initiatives while also supporting teammates in their research efforts.
• Establish a structured research roadmap that maintains alignment, accountability, and focus across quant functions.
• Oversee the design and enhancement of pricing models, analytics tools, and research infrastructure.
• Partner closely with teams such as trading, risk management, and engineering to ensure an integrated approach to model development and execution.
• Provide thought leadership and apply rigorous scientific methodology to practical, real-world trading applications.

Qualifications

• PhD in a quantitative or technical field (e.g., Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Engineering, Operations Research) strongly preferred.
• Experience within a top-tier systematic or quantitative trading environment, including 10+ years as a quantitative researcher.
• Demonstrated ability to independently conduct high-impact research.
• Proven track record of generating positive PnL or impactful commercial results.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly present complex analyses both verbally and in writing.
• Advanced programming skills and familiarity with the software development lifecycle.
• Strong analytical capabilities combined with a deep understanding of trading or financial markets.
• Commitment to high-quality work and a results-oriented mindset.
• Strong proficiency in Python, including experience with scientific libraries such as NumPy and pandas.

Preferred Experience

• Prior management or leadership experience, especially in guiding high-performing quantitative teams.
• Experience working with diverse market and alternative datasets.
• Expertise in options markets, volatility modelling, pricing frameworks, and risk management techniques.
• Strong record of research publications or applied research contributions in industry settings.