Role Overview for VP, Quantitative Research with a Hedge Fund – New York, NY
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, technology-driven hedge fund based in New York City, renowned for its rigorous and innovative approach to systematic trading. We are seeking an exceptional and highly motivated Vice President of Quantitative Research to join their elite team. This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in the firm’s ongoing success by contributing to the research, development, and implementation of next-generation trading strategies across a diverse range of global markets and asset classes.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned quantitative researcher with a deep passion for applying sophisticated mathematical and computational techniques to solve complex financial problems. You will be immersed in a dynamic, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating environment, working alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry, including world-class researchers, engineers, and portfolio managers. This role is not just about model development; it’s about making a tangible impact on the firm’s profitability and strategic direction. You will have access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure, massive and unique datasets, and significant computational resources.
Our client fosters a meritocratic culture where creativity, intellectual curiosity, and a drive for excellence are highly valued and rewarded. As a VP, you will be expected to not only generate novel ideas but also to mentor junior talent, lead research projects from conception to production, and contribute to the firm’s collective intellectual capital. If you are a strategic thinker with a proven track record of generating alpha and are looking to take your career to the next level at a top-tier quantitative investment firm, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Quantitative Research with a Hedge Fund – New York, NY
As a Vice President of Quantitative Research, you will be at the forefront of the firm’s efforts to find and capitalize on market inefficiencies. Your responsibilities will be broad and impactful, encompassing the full lifecycle of strategy development:
Strategy Research and Development
Conceptualize, design, and implement novel quantitative trading models and alpha-generating signals. This involves rigorous statistical analysis and creative exploration of market phenomena.
Advanced Data Analysis
Work with vast and complex datasets, including high-frequency market data, fundamental data, and a wide array of alternative datasets (e.g., satellite imagery, geolocation data, web scraped text). You will be responsible for cleaning, processing, and extracting valuable insights from this information.
Statistical & Machine Learning Modeling
Apply a diverse toolkit of sophisticated quantitative methods. This includes time-series analysis, econometrics, statistical inference, and advanced machine learning techniques such as deep learning, reinforcement learning, natural language processing (NLP), and gradient boosting models.
Rigorous Backtesting and Simulation
Develop and maintain robust backtesting frameworks to simulate the performance of trading strategies. This includes a careful analysis of transaction costs, market impact, and risk-adjusted returns to ensure strategy viability.
Portfolio Construction and Risk Management
Contribute to the development of portfolio optimization and risk management models. You will analyze and manage the risks associated with various strategies and the overall portfolio.
Collaboration and Communication
Work in close collaboration with portfolio managers to refine and deploy strategies, and partner with software engineers to build and scale the necessary research and trading infrastructure. You will be expected to clearly articulate and present complex research findings to senior management and investment committees.
Mentorship and Leadership
Provide guidance and mentorship to junior members of the research team, fostering their technical and professional growth. You will lead research initiatives and contribute to a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
Technology and Infrastructure Enhancement
Proactively identify and advocate for improvements to the firm’s research platform, data infrastructure, and computational tools to maintain a competitive edge.
Requirements for the VP, Quantitative Research with a Hedge Fund – New York, NY
We are looking for candidates who possess a unique combination of deep quantitative expertise, strong programming skills, and a genuine passion for financial markets. The following qualifications are essential for success in this role:
Educational Background
A Ph.D. or M.S. degree from a top-tier university in a highly quantitative discipline such as Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 5-10 years of professional experience in a quantitative research role, specifically focused on alpha generation at a leading hedge fund, proprietary trading firm, or top-tier investment bank.
Programming Proficiency
Expert-level programming skills are required. You must have deep fluency in Python and its scientific computing libraries (e.g., NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-learn, Matplotlib, StatsModels). Strong experience with C++ for performance-critical applications is also essential.
Quantitative & Statistical Acumen
A profound understanding of probability, statistics, econometrics, optimization, and time-series analysis. Extensive hands-on experience applying machine learning models to real-world financial data is critical.
Financial Market Knowledge
A strong intuition for financial markets and a proven track record of developing profitable systematic strategies in at least one major asset class (e.g., equities, futures, options, FX, credit).
Data Expertise
Demonstrable experience working with large and noisy financial datasets, including cleaning, feature engineering, and validation. Experience with alternative data is highly desirable.
Problem-Solving Skills
Exceptional analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and creatively to overcome complex research challenges.
Communication Skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex concepts and present them clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes that attracting and retaining the best talent requires a commitment to providing an exceptional and supportive work environment. They offer a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
Exceptional Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant performance-based bonus that directly rewards your contributions to the firm’s success.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents, with low or no employee contributions.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) retirement plan with a substantial company match to help you build long-term financial security.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation days, sick leave, and company holidays.
World-Class Office Amenities
A modern office in a prime New York City location, featuring daily catered gourmet meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), a fully stocked kitchen with healthy snacks and beverages, and an on-site fitness center.
Professional Growth
A strong emphasis on continuous learning, with support for attending academic and industry conferences, pursuing relevant certifications, and accessing other professional development opportunities.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for outstanding candidates who are not currently based in the New York metropolitan area.
A Culture of Excellence
The opportunity to work on challenging and intellectually rewarding problems in a collaborative, data-driven, and non-bureaucratic environment.
How to Apply
JRG Partners specializes in connecting elite talent with leading firms in the quantitative finance industry. We have a deep understanding of the unique skills and experience required to succeed in this demanding field. If you meet the qualifications and are excited by the prospect of joining a world-class hedge fund, we invite you to submit your application.
Please apply through JRG Partners to be considered for this exclusive opportunity. To learn more about our expertise and other roles in this space, please visit our Quantitative Analytics & Trading practice area page.
JRG Partners and our client are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
