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NAG Ltd / Smith Institute - KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER PARTNERSHIP
Numerical software developer for finance

Background

The Numerical Algorithms Group Ltd (NAG) is a leading provider of numerical
software components to a diverse range of industries worldwide. Since its
foundation in 1970, and its development of the first software library, it
has been at the forefront of research and innovation in the area of
mathematical computing. An important market for the company’s software is
the finance sector and the project outlined here will translate new thinking
in numerical algorithms for financial simulation into a viable product for
banks and other clients.  The Smith Institute connects industry and the
science base to create commercial benefit from mathematical modelling, and
also manages the UK’s Knowledge Transfer Network for Industrial Mathematics.

The Project

A talented graduate is sought to fill a central role in the development of
new software products for the finance industry. The post offers a unique
opportunity to apply cutting edge research in numerical algorithms for GPUs
to the requirements of financial markets. It will incorporate active
involvement with academic researchers as well as with clients in financial
institutions.

The objectives are to: take recent research in the area of financial
simulation as the basis for an innovative new product; build contacts with
financial institutions to further improve product function and design;
create an implementation of the chosen algorithms on specific hardware
platforms; take the production process through testing and quality assurance
to promotion and marketing; evaluate future market potential based on the
experience gained.

The project will last for 21 months. It will be based at NAG in Oxford, and
be carried out under joint supervision with the Smith Institute and Prof
Mike Giles.

The Opportunity

This post offers a unique opportunity for someone with a background in
mathematics to apply cutting edge research in numerical algorithms to the
requirements of financial markets. It will incorporate active involvement
with academic researchers as well as with clients in financial institutions
to develop new software products and implement these on specific hardware
platforms.  It includes an important training element whereby the postholder
will gain expertise in numerical software implementation together with more
general mathematical and management skills. 

The Requirement

The successful candidate will possess a first degree with a strong
mathematical content together with some knowledge of financial mathematics,
preferably in the area of stochastic processes as applied to financial
derivatives or risk management. In addition, experience of computer
programming languages is important.  Prior experience of programming with
GPUs would be an advantage, but is not essential.

Some of the work that has resulted from this project can be viewed at
http://www.nag.co.uk/numeric/gpus/.

A flexible approach to working practices and hours is essential, since the
role will include visits to clients and interaction with existing company
production teams. Strong communication skills are also necessary since an
important part of the role is to publicise results through verbal
presentations and written reports.

The salary will be competitive to reflect the successful candidate's
qualifications and experience and will be in the range £29,300 - £34,294. 
Candidates should apply in writing to: Gillian Hoyle, Smith Institute,
Surrey Technology Centre, Surrey Research Park, Guildford GU2 7YG, enclosing
a full CV with the names and addresses of two referees, and quoting ref
SI/NAG. Further details are available from the same address, or via email to
[log in to unmask] Further information about NAG may be found at
www.nag.co.uk and information about the Smith Institute may found at
www.smithinst.co.uk.

The closing date for applications is 13th October 2009.