Akuna Capital’s 2026 Virtual Quant Trading Challenge

Participate in Akuna Capital’s Virtual Quant Trading Challenge by writing your own market-making Python bots to compete on a simulated exchange. The challenge runs for 5–8 hours and is open from August 17–21, 2026; top performers may gain expedited consideration for Quant full-time and internship roles in Chicago. Candidates should be pursuing BS/MS/PhD in Engineering, Economics, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Actuarial Science or related fields, have strong math, statistics and quantitative analysis skills, a solid Python programming background, and a demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, team environment. Major GPA target is 3.5 or above with anticipated graduation between December 2026 and August 2028. Applications require a resume and a motivation letter (PDF); a limited number of candidates will be invited to final rounds in the Quant department. Right-to-work in the United States is required on day one, with background check clearance and review of restrictive covenant and related agreement. Resumes and motivation letters must be submitted in PDF format.