The Journey of Iris from a PhD in Maths to becoming a Quant

3 min read

With over 10+ years of experience as a risk quant and a PhD in Mathematical Statistics and Probability, our EPATian Iris Jiang explores the world of algorithmic trading as a beginner. She has a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and Statistics from Nanjing University and a Master's degree in Finance from INSEAD and now is a proud EPAT alumnus too.

Iris wants to develop good quant trading strategies to facilitate the traders, to do high frequency and algorithm trading for their own benefit.

This is her journey into the world of algorithmic and quantitative trading with EPAT.


Hi Iris, tell us about yourself!

Hi, I am Iris Jiang from Singapore. I’m currently working as a Algorithmic Trading Quant at the Standard Chartered Bank.

I enjoy going out for walks in the park with my family and friends which is a luxury due to the restrictions placed because of the pandemic. I love exercising, meditation, yoga, baking etc. to maintain mind and body positivity in these tough times.

It's more fun working in the office space and with everyone else, than just working solo at home. So, I hope for everything to go back to normal and wish for the pandemic to get over soon.


Being from a Science background, how did you get into Algorithmic Trading?

I have always loved learning new things. I have done many certifications in different kinds of courses in the fields of mathematics and statistics. It was after I completed my PhD and joined a bank, that I was introduced to this domain of finance, and to concepts like modelling and pricing. It piqued my interest and I wanted to get into this world of financial markets.

Over the years I got acquainted with trading, read the news and journals, and increased my knowledge through different sources. With basic trading knowledge, I knew I wanted to do something related to the market. I explored some more and finally found my portal to the algorithmic trading world through EPAT.


How was your experience learning Algorithmic Trading with EPAT?

I had done a lot of research before finding EPAT. I found courses that provided learning in quant trading and other courses related to finance and data sciences. But never came across courses that provided both or suited my taste.

I wanted to join a Programme where beginners with no experience in trading could learn about algorithmic trading. I knew what I wanted to do, so rather than exploring different platforms to develop my skills, I found EPAT. EPAT is that ONE platform where I found everything that would help me.

The journey so far has been amazing and I also receive emails about the new updates. This shows that EPAT always keeps up with the latest trends and informs us about new updates and topics in the domain and those added to the course as well.


Which feature of EPAT do you like the most?

There are a lot of things I love about EPAT. The curriculum is excellent! I was able to understand various topics related to trading that I knew nothing about like types of trading and strategies.

I also love how we have lifetime access to the courses, videos and even webinars. The faculty and support managers are amazing. They have always checked up on my learning process and have guided me well. I am really grateful to them.


Your message to those who want to learn Algo Trading?

Being new to this domain of trading, my only advice will be that it's never too late. “Better late than never”, as the saying goes. No learning is lesser. Don’t be afraid to try new things. You can do your own trading with lots of practice and one day, maybe you may set up your own algorithmic trading desk.


Thank you Iris for such motivating words and congratulations on receiving your Certificate of Excellence in EPAT. We wish you all the best in your future endeavours.

If you too desire to equip yourself with lifelong skills which will always help you in upgrading your trading strategies. With topics such as Statistics & Econometrics, Financial Computing & Technology, Machine Learning, this algo trading course ensures that you are proficient in every skill required to excel in the field of trading. Check out EPAT now!


Disclaimer: In order to assist individuals who are considering pursuing a career in algorithmic and quantitative trading, this success story has been collated based on the personal experiences of a student or alumni from QuantInsti’s EPAT programme. Success stories are for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to be used for investment purposes. The results achieved post completion of the EPAT programme may not be uniform for all individuals.

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