Quantitative modelling acts as the foundation upon which Optiver’s trading activities are built. Our Research Teams – experts with MSc and PhDs in Econometrics, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics and other STEM subjects – utilise a scientific approach to research and design our world-class trading algorithms. This means applying and developing state-of-the-art stochastic models to price options and predict market volatility, as well as utilising Monte Carlo methods; and determining how to perform differentiation on discrete realisations of stochastic processes. It also means developing statistical arbitrage strategies by working with petabytes of low latency, high-frequency market data sets, an extensive high-powered computing back- testing framework and much more.

Optiver Researchers believe in academic discourse, and therefore invite their teammates and Traders to challenge each hypothesis. Can it be mathematically improved? Does it pose potential risk? Does it exploit a market behavioural pattern? Can it sustain its output goals? Constant testing, analysis, refinement and innovation ensure our quantitative models remain at the cutting-edge of constantly evolving capital markets.

Who we are:

Optiver is a tech-driven trading firm and leading global market maker. As one of the oldest market making institutions, we are a trusted partner of 50+ exchanges across the globe. Our mission is to constantly improve the market by injecting liquidity, providing accurate pricing, increasing transparency and acting as a stabilising force no matter the market conditions. With a focus on continuous improvement, we participate in the safeguarding of healthy and efficient markets for everyone who participates.

As one of the world’s major financial centres, London was selected as the home of Optiver’s FX trading business, our UK-focused Institutional Trading Team and rapidly growing commodities trading arm. Optiver UK is located in a city that bridges European, Asian and American time zones, connecting our regional offices and embracing a truly global mindset. With more than 270 nationalities and 300 languages, London is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and is home to some of the best museums, a thriving international restaurant scene and bustling high streets that attract people from all over the globe.

What you’ll do:

When it comes to solving a complex problem, there’s no stone you won’t leave unturned. It’s this kind of energy that’ll see you shine on one of the most dynamic and exciting trading floors in Europe. As a Quantitative Researcher, you’ll be instrumental in the success of the trading floor. With your knowledge of statistics and top-tier analytical abilities, you’ll develop the insights, reports and proposals that will drive our most impactful new trading strategies.

Optiver's team of Researchers work alongside Traders to solve a range of mathematical problems, from ad hoc market analysis to sophisticated model creation and tool development. As our business has grown and diversified, so too has our Research Team, which now owns projects ranging from option pricing, statistical modeling of trading strategies, to collaborating with development teams to optimise our systems and build new tools for accurate trading decision making.

As a Quantitative Researcher, you’ll collaborate closely with world-class traders and software engineers from more than 50 countries to take on the challenges of one of the most complex and fast-paced industries that exists.

Who you are:

Optiver's success has been founded on the collaborative nature throughout our trading floor. We look for people who thrive in team environments, love to be challenged daily and are intuitively strong.

In terms of qualifications, we’re looking for:

Experience working in trading/finance environments. The more relevant to Options market making the better, but at the very least you have worked in quantitative research roles within finance.
Deep quantitative research and modelling skills. You have lived and breathed math and stats for much of your career. You have a passion for solving math problems and you have the skills to make it happen.
A track record of successful leadership of research projects. You will be able to demonstrate that you have effectively interacted with various teams and added significant value to businesses that you supported.
You enjoy mentoring others, sharing your knowledge and helping them improve.

What you’ll get:

At Optiver UK, you will be part of a well-established and high-performing global firm whilst experiencing the excitement that comes from a growing operation. As our London operations grow, the opportunity to make a global impact and take your career to a new level expands with it. We offer a supportive environment for you to perform at your best. Some of our key benefits Include:

Competitive remuneration
27 paid vacation days (plus UK public holidays)
Daily onsite breakfast and lunch
Paid commuting expenses (home to office)
50% paid gym subscription
Private medical insurance
Pension scheme
Training, conference attendance and continuous learning opportunities
International transfer opportunities

How to apply:

Apply directly via the form below and please provide us with a CV and letter of motivation in English. Should there be a potential match, a member of our team will reach out sooner rather than later. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to reach out to recruitment@optiver.uk.

When applying for a role with Optiver UK Limited, the recruitment process is run via our Optiver global recruitment team. The personal data you will submit as part of the recruitment process may be processed in the UK, US and the Netherlands. By continuing with your application you hereby consent to your personal data being processed in these locations. More information on how Optiver processes your personal data can be found in our[ Privacy Policy.](https://www.optiver.com/content/uploads/files/document/Privacy- statement-12-2019.pdf?mtime=20200124172956)

As an intentionally flat organisation, we believe that great ideas and impact can come from everyone. We are passionate about empowering individuals and creating diverse teams that thrive. Every person at Optiver should feel included, valued and respected, because we believe our best work is done together. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is hardwired