How to Become a Quant? - The What, Why and How

AlgoQuantHub Weekly Deep Dive

Author

Nicholas Burgess
July 25, 2025

Welcome to the Deep Dive!

Here each week on ‘The Deep Dive’ we take a close look at cutting-edge topics on algo trading and quant research.

AlgoQuantHub brings you the latest hands-on quant tutorials, insightful videos, and cutting-edge research—designed to bridge the gap between quantitative theory and practical implementation in real markets. This newsletter delivers actionable knowledge right to your inbox, featuring targeted explorations of key topics each week.

Last week, we focused on techniques for supercharging pricing and risk analytics for electronic markets. We learned about low-latency models and how to accelerate computations to produce real-time portfolio risk using the Jacobian approach.

This week, we’ll learn how to land a Quant job. We take you through the details of what is a Quant, what they do, how to become a Quant, CVs, the interview process and why become a Quant.

Bonus content, Quants use advanced maths, programming, and financial knowledge to develop models and strategies for financial markets—a career that offers high pay and strong growth prospects for those with STEM backgrounds. Here, we provide free essential resources to help you break into Quant Finance.

Stay tuned for impactful insights—delivered weekly to help you master quant finance and algorithmic trading.

Table of Contents

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Feature Article - Want to Become a Quant? - The What, Why and How

What is a Quant?
Quantitative finance is a highly lucrative and intellectually stimulating field at the intersection of mathematics, computer science, and finance that focuses on using rigorous quantitative methods to analyse and predict financial markets. Professionals in this arena, known as ‘Quants’, develop and implement mathematical models, sophisticated algorithms, and data-driven strategies to gain insights into financial behaviours, optimize trading, and manage financial risk.

What do Quants do?
Quants work at hedge funds, proprietary trading firms, asset management companies (the ‘Buy Side’) or investment banks (the ‘Sell Side’). There are different types of Quants namely,

  • Quant Traders - Design, implement, and execute algorithmic trading strategies, often with a focus on automation and market efficiency.

  • Quant Researchers - Develop mathematical models to predict market movements. Predominantly found on the buy side, they leverage Python for predictive analytics, machine learning, and AI-driven research.

  • Quant Analysts - Build and maintain pricing models and risk analytics for trading desks. Typically, on the sell side, they use C++ to deliver low-latency solutions for electronic market making, live risk management, and present value calculations.

  • Quant Strategists - Work closely with trading teams to provide quantitative models, pricing, and risk support, bridging the gap between research and execution.

  • Quant Developers - Design the software and technology infrastructure that enables traders to implement and risk manage trading strategies efficiently and securely.

How to become a Quant?
Firstly, to become a Quant one requires the right educational background a postgraduate master’s degree (MSc.) in a STEM field such as Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Finance is required.

Secondly, essential skills needed include: Probability & Statistics, Stochastic Calculus, Linear Algebra and an understanding of Optimization Techniques.

Thirdly, most firms expect programming knowledge and proficiency in C++ and Python for ‘Sell Side’ and ‘Buy-Side’ roles respectively. Often one requires a knowledge of both.

Fourthly, financial knowledge and an understanding of financial instruments and market micro structure is required. Popular concepts include: the Black-Scholes model, Volatility Models (e.g. Local Vol, SABR, Heston, Stochastic Local Vol), Market Microstructure and Order Book Dynamics, Yield Curve Models, Bond, Swap, Credit and Derivative Pricing. Generally, some practical experience working on such models will be expected.

Quant Interviews
Exam style interviews are often conducted that are highly challenging consisting of questions on: Mathematics, Brain Teasers, Coding Challenges, Finance and Trading Concepts and Problem-Solving.

Quant CVs
Due to high demand, most Quant CVs are initially scanned and often hiring managers spend approx. 30 seconds per CV. Many hiring managers quote TLDR - ‘Too Long Didn’t Read’ as the main reason for not interviewing a candidate. Many CVs are filtered and screened using SEO - Search Engine Optimization software, where only CVs with certain keywords are accepted, usually the keywords are requirements listed in the job post.

Why become a Quant?
There are many reasons to become a Quant including: high salary potential, work projects are intellectually challenging & rewarding, working with cutting-edge technology (including machine learning and artificial intelligence), excellent career growth potential.

Keywords
Quant, Finance, Markets, Trading, Strategies, Analysis, Research, Pricing, Hedging, Risk Management, Coding, Mathematics, Models

Bonus Content - Essential Quant Resources to Break into Quant Finance

Unlock a quant finance career and master a blend of advanced mathematics, programming, and market strategy — with the right resources at your fingertips, you can set yourself apart from the competition. From building a standout CV and honing technical skills with industry-leading books and coding platforms, to advancing your expertise through elite recommended training programs. The resources presented here provide you with everything you need to excel as a quant—whether you’re preparing for high-stakes interviews, developing real-world trading strategies, or seeking to accelerate your Quant Finance journey.

How to Become a Quant?
The Ultimate Quant Guide

Quant CVs
Useful website for Quant resume writing
Quant CV Examples & Templates

Books
The below books I have personally found the very useful.

Recommended Courses
For professionals pursuing quant finance careers, the Certificate in Quantitative Finance (CQF) and QuantInsti courses stand out for their strong industry reputation and practical focus. CQF is highly valued for its in-depth training in quantitative analysis, financial engineering, and advanced programming, while QuantInsti specializes in hands-on courses for algorithmic trading, machine learning, and financial programming. Both programs equip quants with the technical and applied skills needed to excel in today’s fast-evolving finance sector.

Coding Practice
Excellent coding resources.

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