Optiver PhD Quant Lab 2025

Have you often thought about what research looks like outside of academia? At Optiver’s two-day PhD Quant Lab, you’ll be immersed in an environment where deep research drives decision making at a global scale.

Whether you're new to trading or already intrigued by financial markets, the Quant Lab is designed exclusively for PhD students as a hands-on introduction to the kinds of challenges our researchers tackle every day. This is your opportunity to apply your academic expertise in a real-world context and explore how your skills could translate into a career in quantitative trading, research, or a number of other roles.

You’ll experience our unique culture of constant learning, thoughtful collaboration, and where your ideas can make an immediate impact.

No background in finance or financial knowledge needed!

Eligible for PhD students in: Mathematics, AI / ML, Statistics, Physics, Electrical / Mechatronic / Software Engineering, Computer Science, Applied/Quantitative Finance, Econometrics or any other quantitative field.

Program dates: 24th & 25th July
Where: Optiver Sydney office. We will provide flights and accommodation for interstate attendees.
Application close: Friday 20th June (5pm)

What You'll Do

Over two days, you’ll:

• Hear directly from PhD graduates at Optiver on their day-to-day projects, and their successful transition to industry.
• Explore the fundamentals of trading and quantitative research through hands-on workshops.
• Meet people across the business, and understand different potential career pathways.
• Build your job-ready skills. We’ll guide you through the recruitment process and give you tips on how you can best prepare yourself.
• Attend social events designed to help you connect with Optiver’s team and culture.

Who You Are

You are a PhD student, of any year, with a drive to make things happen. You’re an inquisitive, critical thinker who enjoys innovating new and creative solutions.

In addition, you’re:

• Keen to understand the “why” and a strong believer in the power of collaborative problem solving.
• Pragmatic, with a focus on results.
• Able to communicate technical concepts well.
• Enjoy utilising technology, programming, or maths in your daily life to solve problems.

What You'll Get

• Two days in the Optiver Sydney office, including flights and accommodation (for interstate attendees).
• The chance to learn from PhD graduates that have transitioned into successful industry careers.
• The opportunity to work on real-life projects that enhance your employability.
• A network of like-minded PhD students.
• Breakfast, lunch and an in-house barista.

Eligibility

You will need to be currently completing a PhD in Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Electrical / Mechatronic / Software Engineering, Computer Science, Applied/Quantitative Finance, or Econometrics.

An Australian or New Zealand Citizen, Australian Permanent Resident or able to secure full working rights after graduating.

Questions? Check out our internship and graduate FAQs or get in touch with the team at careers@optiver.com.au.