Which Job Offer is Better for Breaking into Quant Research?

[ExampleName]

Hi everyone,

I recently graduated with distinction from a highly regarded European university, majoring in a math and computer science-heavy degree. My ultimate goal is to break into quant research, but I wasn’t able to secure a graduate position this year due to insufficient preparation for technical interviews. I definitely plan to reapply next year with better preparation.

In the meantime, I have received two job offers and would appreciate any advice on which would be the better stepping stone for a future quant research role:

1. Data Science Role at an MBB Firm – A position in one of the top consulting firms, working in data science.
2. Trainee Program at a Large Bank in C++ High-Frequency Trading – A role focused on C++ development in the HFT division of a major bank.

Given my goal of transitioning into quant research, which option do you think would provide the best experience and positioning for next year's applications? Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

 

[jvking]

Both offers are awesome! You must be a really strong candidate. I’d go with the second one if your goal is quant research, although both job offers are really great and I personally feel their career prospect is no worse than quant research.

It will also depend on your definition of quant research, HFT shops and slower asset management funds favor different skills even though their job title may both say quant research.