Graduate Quantitative Researcher, 2024

GRADUATE QUANTITATIVE RESEARCHER

Our Quantitative Team are a mixture of mathematicians, statisticians and technologists that find solutions to problems. We create trading models and strategies scientifically by combining our quantitative expertise with an understanding of derivatives and financial markets. We are seeking graduates to join the team to apply their quantitative skills to exciting problems. You don't need a background in finance or trading, instead we look for maths and coding skills.

Our Quantitative Researchers are mathematicians, statisticians and modelling experts who seek to quantify and automate the most complex problems in options trading. Quantitative Researchers work closely with both traders and developers to create, test and deploy new models and strategies. 

If this sounds interesting to you, apply now! We are looking for people who have innovative ideas, think analytically, and have an entrepreneurial mindset and want to make an immediate impact in our growing company and contribute to Akuna’s strategy portfolio.

Start dates: February 2024 

Training: As a junior, you will be paired with an experienced mentor to work together on your first project, and we offer extensive training opportunities to learn about market making, our systems, and financial theories such as Options Greeks and Black Scholes model.

What you’ll do:

• Leverage mathematical expertise from a variety of domains, including Probability & Statistics, Linear Algebra, Stochastic Calculus, Machine Learning, Optimization, and Control Theory to solve challenging problems in the trading domain
• Use large data sets to train, test, and validate models, strategies, and algorithms 
• Collaborate directly with traders and developers to take your ideas from concept to production 
• Develop a clear understanding of the mathematics of derivatives and financial markets

What you’ll bring:

• Australian or NZ citizen or Australian Permanent residences only
• VISA: you need full working rights that lead to PR, such as the Graduate Work Visa 485. Akuna does not offer sponsorship for this position
• University Degree graduating before February 2024 and within the last 3 years 
• Bachelor, Honours, Masters or PhDs in Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, or related degrees
• Distinction Average & proven strong academics
• Awards, prizes, medals, competitions, & scholarships
• Experience in research within an academic or professional environment
• Achievements outside of studies through your hobbies & interests
• An understanding of statistics and machine learning
• Basic programming skills in Python or C++
• Strong maths skills: able to apply concepts of probability, calculus and linear algebra
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to run a project in a fast paced, team environment
• Financial experience or studies are NOT a requirement

What you’ll get:

• Structured learning program built upon our flagship Options 101 Course by our dedicated Trader Training Manager 
• An attractive base salary, generous bonus structure & relocation package if you’re not from Sydney. 
• Professional development, global mobility opportunities & tuition reimbursements to make sure you keep learning.
• Buddy program to help you transition into Akuna, your role and team, as well as build connections and support network
• Catch up with your colleagues over coffee made by our in-house barista & grab a bite to eat in our fully stocked kitchen 
• Weekly social events, team competitions & Akuna clubs
• 180-degree views of Darling Harbour in our collaborative, open plan office space in Barangaroo
• Paid volunteer leave to give back to communities and/ causes that are important to you