Univest – Quantitative Research Analyst

Description:

MUST-HAVE QUALIFICATIONS

– 3-5 years of hands-on experience in systematic or algorithmic trading (buy-side or prop desk preferred)

– Strong understanding of Indian equity markets NSE F&O, expiry cycles, Open Interest dynamics, PCR interpretation

– Deep working knowledge of options pricing Black-Scholes, Greeks, IV surface, volatility skew

– Proficient in Python (pandas, numpy, scipy) able to independently write and audit backtest code

– Experience designing and backtesting multi-factor alpha models

– Understands backtest pitfalls look-ahead bias, survivorship bias, overfitting

GOOD-TO-HAVE QUALIFICATIONS

– CFA / FRM / NISM Series VIII (Equity Derivatives) certification

– Experience at a prop trading firm, hedge fund, or quant desk at a brokerage

– Published research on Indian market microstructure or options strategies

– Familiarity with signal frameworks Stochastic RSI, CMF, OBV, Smart Money Concepts (SMC)

– Exposure to GARCH models, regime-switching volatility, or advanced IV estimation techniques

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

– Refine and evolve the 5-signal regime model add/remove indicators, tune weights, improve conviction scoring

– Design better Implied Volatility estimation methods (e.g., replace rolling realised vol with GARCH or regime-switching vol)

– Improve options strike selection logic move from fixed OTM distance to dynamic selection based on IV regime

– Build delta-hedging and rolling logic for options positions

– Define stress scenarios and edge cases for the risk engine

– Own all 21 backtest scenarios, interpret results, and translate findings into actionable model changes

– Collaborate with the engineering team to productionise validated strategies

– Continuously research and integrate new alpha sources and signal enhancements

TECH & TOOLS

– Python (pandas, numpy, scipy, statsmodels), Jupyter Notebooks

– Node.js / Express (production signal engine)

– Kite Connect v3 API (Zerodha) for market data and execution

– Backtesting frameworks and quantitative analytics tools

– Pine Script (TradingView) for visual strategy prototyping