Roadmap for Quantitative Trader, Researcher, and Developer
General Skills Required for All Roles
1. Programming: Python, C++, R, and MATLAB.
2. Mathematics: Linear algebra, probability, calculus, and optimization.
3. Statistics: Hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and time-series analysis.
4. Data Handling: SQL, Pandas, NumPy, and big data tools.
5. Domain Knowledge: Financial markets, instruments, and trading mechanisms.
6. Algorithms: Dynamic programming, graph algorithms, and optimization.
7. Soft Skills: Communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.
Role-Specific Focus
1. Quantitative Trader
- Skills:
Market Microstructure, Algorithmic Trading, Backtesting Frameworks, Risk Management,
High-Frequency Trading (HFT).
- Tools: Python, R, C++, Interactive Brokers, QuantConnect.
- Roadmap:
Master trading basics, learn Python, backtesting libraries, study strategies, and gain exposure to
market data.
2. Quantitative Researcher
- Skills:
Data Analysis, Model Development, Deep Learning, Portfolio Theory, Mathematical Finance.
- Tools: Python, MATLAB, R, TensorFlow, PyTorch.
- Roadmap:
Build mathematical finance knowledge, learn advanced ML techniques, work on projects, and
publish research papers.
3. Quantitative Developer
- Skills:
Software Development, Low-Latency Systems, APIs, DevOps, Systems Design.
- Tools: C++, Python, Java, FIX protocol, ZeroMQ, SQL.
- Roadmap:
Learn system programming, build trading engines, optimize performance, and intern at financial
institutions.
Career Roadmap
Year 1-2: Education and Basics
- Study relevant degrees in CS, Mathematics, Finance, or Statistics.
- Build foundational programming skills (Python, R, C++).
- Take courses on finance, ML, and trading basics.
- Work on small projects and learn trading tools.
Year 3-4: Specialization
- Choose focus: Trader, Researcher, or Developer.
- Contribute to open-source projects and GitHub.
- Build advanced projects like backtesting engines or HFT systems.
- Network and secure internships.
Year 5 and Beyond: Professional Growth
- Gain certifications (CFA, CQF).
- Publish white papers and attend conferences.
- Transition to leadership roles or start your own firm.
Resources
Books:
- Algorithmic Trading by Ernest P. Chan.
- Options, Futures, and Other Derivatives by John C. Hull.
- Quantitative Trading by Ernie Chan.
Online Courses:
- QuantInsti's EPAT Program.
- Coursera's Financial Engineering courses.
Communities:
- QuantNet, StackExchange (Quant).