PhD CS contemplating on next step

Dear All,

I recently graduated from a top CS program concentrating on machine learning. I was wandering if I should apply for HF jobs and what my desirability would be.

One of my concerns is that I'm more risk averse, and don't have big "balls" or "guts" to take big risk, but I think I'll enjoy the dynamic environment where my skills can be put to use. Do you guys think the "guts" are important for a person to succeed in the HF industry? Or does a risk averse attitude get attention too? Thanks.

3 Comments
 

I think the desired tolerance for risk depends a lot on where you work and what you do. "HF jobs" covers a very wide spectrum of roles.

You might look into the quantitative hedge funds. Some of the more well-known ones: Renaissance Technologies, D.E. Shaw, AQR Capital, Two Sigma.

Another idea is the more quantitative/programming-oriented prop trading shops. Hudson River Trading seems pretty appealing. There are also a ton of programmatic market-making shops in Chicago.

 
Best Response
jane0821

Dear All,

I recently graduated from a top CS program concentrating on machine learning. I was wandering if I should apply for HF jobs and what my desirability would be.

One of my concerns is that I'm more risk averse, and don't have big "balls" or "guts" to take big risk, but I think I'll enjoy the dynamic environment where my skills can be put to use. Do you guys think the "guts" are important for a person to succeed in the HF industry? Or does a risk averse attitude get attention too? Thanks.

Guts are definitely important, but only at the risk taking level (trading/portfolio management). There are many other roles (research, technology) where being risk averse is not a negative.

There are many quant shops who'd be interested in someone with a background like yours. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions.

 

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