Principal Quantitative Researcher - Systematic

Chicagotrading · Chicago, Illinois, United States; New York, New York, United States · Other

Posted 2026-10-10

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Quantitative research is a key driver of innovation at CTC and one of the pillars upon which our firm is built. We are seeking a Principal Quantitative Researcher to partner with Trading and Technology to drive new revenue, scale, and evolve the firm's trading capabilities. In this role, you will lead research areas, influencing the direction of the team in a dynamic environment. This includes partnership with other researcher managers, traders and engineers on quantitative problem solving, trading strategy generation, back-testing, statistical analysis, and system design.

Take advantage of this opportunity to apply the scientific method to business problems as part of the Quant team at CTC!

What You’ll Do

Define and articulate a long-term vision that will lead to new sources of revenue, evolving with business needs and market structure

Conduct commercially focused revenue generating research, while supporting others with their research

Develop a structured roadmap and ensure quant functions remain focused, aligned, and accountable

Direct development of innovative infrastructure across pricing models and research platforms

Foster coordination across risk management, development, and quantitative research to drive measurable business impact

Provide thought leadership while applying academic rigor to practical trading applications

What We’re Looking For

PhD in Science or Engineering fields (e.g. Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, Operations Research, Electrical Engineering) strongly preferred

Experience in a top systematic trading team of which at least 10 years as a quantitative researcher

Proven ability to conduct independent, high-quality research

Demonstrable track record of generating positive PnL

Exceptional ability to communicate complex ideas and research results, both in writing and verbally

Experience with the software development lifecycle with advanced programming skills

Unique combination of analytical prowess, programming skills, and acute understanding of business

Unwavering commitment to quality, coupled with a drive for delivering commercial outcomes

Strong Python skills including Numpy and Pandas libraries

Nice to Haves

Management experience leading a healthy and empowered team, driving accountability.

Experience with a wide variety of market and alternative data

Expertise in US options markets, options pricing models, volatility surfaces, and risk management techniques

Strong Python skills including Numpy and Pandas libraries

Strong track record of publications in an industry setting

Compensation

The salary range for this role is listed below. This role is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. The discretionary bonus will be dependent upon the individual’s skills, experience, qualifications, and firm performance.

Salary Range

$250,000—$300,000 USD

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