Morningstar - Lead Quantitative Analyst

About the Role :

- This is an exciting opportunity for a quantitative researcher, who is intellectually curious, loves experimenting with new approaches, searches for ways to solve investment problems, and thrives in a collaborative environment. Reporting to the Head of Innovation, you will work in multi-disciplinary environments harnessing data to develop next-generation index solutions.

- The newly formed Index Innovation Center will serve as a dedicated space focused on understanding market trends and customer needs and channeling that knowledge into innovative rules-based solutions. The Center will be responsible for managing the innovation lifecycle from ideation to commercialization with an eye toward long-term revenue growth.

Job Responsibilities :

- Leverage new technologies and apply problem-solving skills to complex and varied data sets to solve real-world investing problems.

- Apply advanced analytics and data science methods, experiment with new approaches, and use iterative change to transform proprietary datasets and research into new index designs.

- Write highly optimized code to advance innovation that improves outcomes for investors.

- Operate in a multi-disciplinary environment with specialists in investment research, sustainability, engineering, and design.

- Publish white papers and other thought leadership articles to influence the Innovation Center's recommendations and to support the adoption and commercialization of its ideas.

Qualifications :

- 5 to 10 years of experience in a quantitative or financial domain such as equity research, credit research, investment management, risk management, or analytics.

- Bachelor's degree required; preferably in the field of computer science, machine learning, applied statistics, or mathematics. MBA and/or CFA preferred.

- Experience in using scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from many structured and unstructured data.

- Ability to thrive in an environment that includes ambiguity and uncertainty in the pursuit of breakthrough solutions.

- Knowledge of investing, modern portfolio theory, and portfolio construction processes.

- Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, Matlab, R, or C#) in addition to SQL.

- Excellent documentation habits, presentation skills, and oral and written communication abilities, including the ability to distill complex ideas into simple explanations.