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Quantitative Research Winter Intern Jobs in Illinois

As a Quantitative Research Intern, you will work side-by-side with our Research Team of mathematicians, scientists and technologists, to develop and enhance the models that drive Optiver's trading.

Akuna's Trading and Research teams are seeking Quant Researchers to join a multidisciplinary group ... If you are a current student or recent graduate, please take a look at our Entry Level and Intern ...

Akuna's Trading and Research teams are seeking Quant Researchers to join a multidisciplinary group ... If you are a current student or recent graduate, please take a look at our Entry Level and Intern ...

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Quantitative Research Winter Intern information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Quantitative Research Winter Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Quantitative Research Winter Intern, you generally need strong analytical abilities, proficiency in mathematics or statistics, and coursework or experience in quantitative fields such as finance, economics, or computer science. Familiarity with programming languages like Python, R, or MATLAB, and experience using data analysis tools are typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, curiosity, and effective communication set top candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for analyzing complex datasets, generating actionable insights, and collaborating within research teams.

What types of projects or tasks can a Quantitative Research Winter Intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Quantitative Research Winter Intern, you will typically work on projects involving data analysis, statistical modeling, and developing or backtesting quantitative trading strategies. Interns often collaborate closely with experienced quantitative researchers and traders to analyze large datasets, optimize algorithms, and explore new financial models. The environment is fast-paced and intellectually stimulating, offering exposure to real-world market problems and cutting-edge financial technologies. These experiences provide valuable practical skills and can open doors to full-time roles in quantitative finance.

What does a Quantitative Research Winter Intern do?

A Quantitative Research Winter Intern assists professional researchers in analyzing financial markets using mathematical models and statistical techniques. Their work often involves collecting and processing data, backtesting trading strategies, and developing tools to support decision-making. They typically use programming languages like Python, R, or MATLAB to manipulate large datasets and perform quantitative analyses. The internship provides hands-on experience in applying quantitative methods to solve real-world financial problems and often serves as an introduction to careers in quantitative finance or research.

What is the difference between Quantitative Research Winter Intern vs Quantitative Analyst Intern?

AspectQuantitative Research Winter InternQuantitative Analyst Intern
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in finance, economics, or related fieldsSimilar educational background, often with coursework in statistics or finance
Work EnvironmentInternship programs in financial firms, hedge funds, or asset management companiesInternship roles within investment banks, asset managers, or hedge funds
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in data collection, model testing, and research projectsSupporting quantitative analysis, data modeling, and strategy development

Both roles are internship positions in finance-focused environments requiring strong analytical skills and relevant coursework. The main difference lies in the specific focus: Quantitative Research Winter Interns primarily assist with research and data collection, while Quantitative Analyst Interns are more involved in modeling and analysis tasks. Both prepare interns for careers in quantitative finance, with similar educational backgrounds and work settings.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Quantitative Research Winter Intern jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Quantitative Research Winter Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Quantitative Research Winter Intern job openings in Illinois as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 57% Full Time, and 36% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution.
Quantitative Research Intern

Quantitative Research Intern

Akuna Capital

Chicago, IL

$130K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

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 – meaning we are committed to providing competitive quotes that we are willing to both buy and sell. To do this successfully, we design and implement our own low latency technologies, trading strategies and mathematical models.

Our Founding Partners first conceptualized Akuna in their hometown of Sydney. They opened the firm’s first office in 2011 in the heart of the derivatives industry and the options capital of the world – Chicago. Today, Akuna is proud to operate from additional offices in Sydney, Shanghai, London, and Singapore. 

What you’ll do as a Quantitative Research Intern at Akuna:

Akuna’s Quant team is looking to add Quant Research Interns to a team of mathematicians, statisticians and technologists for our 10-week Akunacademy internship program in our Chicago office. This team creates trading strategies scientifically by combining its quantitative expertise with sophisticated understanding of derivatives and financial markets.

We are looking for talented researchers who can apply and develop machine learning algorithms to contribute to Akuna’s strategy portfolio. In this role you will:

  • Develop trading strategies using statistical and machine learning algorithms.
  • Design and implement optimization algorithms for portfolio construction.
  • Develop quantitative models describing market behavior.
  • Advance existing initiatives and explore opportunities for new research topics.

Qualities that make great candidates:

  • Pursuing a bachelor’s, masters or PhD in Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics (or a related subject)
  • Expertise in statistics and machine learning
  • Experience building mathematical models for complex real-world problems
  • Intermediate programming skills in Python 
  • The ability to react quickly and accurately to rapidly changing market conditions, including the ability to quickly and accurately respond and/or solve math and coding problems are essential functions of the role
  • Financial experience is not a requirement
  • Must graduate by August 2027
  • GPA of 3.5 or above
  • Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required on the first day of employment including F-1 students using CPT, OPT or STEM

**Resumes must be submitted in PDF format. 

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 everyone to feel empowered to apply. We welcome your application and encourage you to take the first steps toward your future with us!

Please note: By submitting an application for this role, you are indicating this is your top preference and acknowledge you will not be considered for other Quant and/or Tech roles at Akuna this recruiting season. This acknowledgement does not limit applications to Trading roles - in addition to this role, you may apply to any Trader roles of interest. 

In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the minimum annualized 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. The minimum base salary herein was determined in good faith by Akuna Capital LLC.