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