Quant Virtual Trading Challenge  About Akuna:  Akuna Capital is an innovative trading firm with a strong focus on collaboration, cutting-edge technology, data driven solutions and automation. We specialize in providing liquidity as an options market-maker – meaning we are committed to providing competitive quotes that we are willing to both buy and sell. To do this successfully, we design and implement our own low latency technologies, trading strategies and mathematical models.   Our Founding Partners first conceptualized Akuna in their hometown of Sydney. They opened the firm’s first office in 2011 in the heart of the derivatives industry and the options capital of the world – Chicago. Today, Akuna is proud to operate from additional offices in Sydney, Shanghai, London, and Singapore.  What you’ll do as a Virtual Quant Trading Challenge Participant:  Are you quantitative, competitive, proficient with Python and looking to test your skills in a Quantitative Trading environment? Break into the Trading industry by participating in our latest simulation! Candidates will gain hands-on trading experience by writing their own market-making bots which will compete both against our models and one another on a simulated exchange. The most profitable submissions will win Akuna swag and expedited recruitment processes in our Quant full-time and internship roles in Chicago!  The challenge will take about 5-8 hours to complete, and the competition will be open for 1 week (from August 17th – August 21st).  Qualities that make great candidates:  * Able to dedicate 5-8 hours uninterrupted to complete the challenge from August 17th through August 21st 2026.   * Pursuing a BS/MS/ PhD in Engineering, Economics, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Actuarial Science or a related/equivalent field.  * Strong math aptitude, statistical and quantitative analysis skills.  * Strong Python programming background.  * Entrepreneurial self-starter ready to work in a fast paced, competitive, team environment.  * Desire and ability to learn the intricacies of financial markets.  * Major GPA of 3.5 or above  * Graduating between December 2026 – August 2028.  In addition to technical skillsets, Akuna values the unique perspectives people can bring to the table to collaboratively solve complex problems and drive Akuna forward. We want all candidates to feel empowered to apply, even if you don’t meet every qualification. We welcome your application and encourage you to take the first steps toward your future with us!  Application Process:  * Applications open on 6/11/2026 and close on 8/10/2026.  * Submit your resume and a one-page/500 words max motivation letter describing your interest in Akuna Capital and detailing what sets you apart from other applicants.  * A limited number of candidates will be invited to join the Quant Trading challenge.  * Individual submissions only – no teams.  * Top performers will have the opportunity to be expedited to final round interviews for our roles within our Quant department at the end of the program.   * Any offer of employment from Akuna is ultimately contingent on verification of your right to work in the United States on the first day of employment, consent to a background check including the successful review and completion of such background check, and review and execution of the Company's Restrictive Covenant and Employee Work Made for Hire Agreement.  **Resumes and motivations letters must be submitted in PDF format.