Research Assistant

Research Assistant at Caladan

We are seeking a motivated Research Assistant to join our team on a part-time basis, the workload will be variable but also can also be flexible to your situation. This role is ideal for a master's or post-grad from TU Delft or a similar institution, particularly those engaged in their dissertation and looking to integrate practical experience. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with our co-founder (based in Amsterdam), delving into the evolving DeFi landscape to uncover opportunities aligned with Caladan's strategic objectives.

What You’ll Do

Deep-Dive DeFi Research

Explore protocols and new opportunities in the DeFi ecosystem. From analysing the mechanics of DeFi projects in depth to learning how ecosystem players curate strategies, you’ll develop an understanding of the how and why.

Trade Idea Exploration & Analysis

Take on-chain trade ideas from an idea through validation and exploration on chain to design and eventual implementation. Brainstorm with the team on how these strategies might fit into CLDN’s existing trading portfolio.

Market & Competitor Insights

Assess how different players (such as liquidity providers, aggregators, and protocol developers) operate within the DeFi value chain. Identify gaps and synergies, then explore ways for CLDN to create unique value in these ecosystems.

Industry Analysis

Monitor and analyse broader industry trends, contributing to the development of themes and theses that will influence Caladan's strategic planning. Join forces with our internal teams and external partners as you research and test new ideas. We’re well-connected in the industry, so you’ll have opportunities to engage directly with senior leaders at various projects.

General Research & Reporting

Conduct broader desk research on new trends, summarise key takeaways, and help maintain resources like our reading lists.

What We’re Looking For

Hands-On Crypto Experience

At least one year of experience in the crypto space, meaning you’ve done more than just read about it—you’ve actively participated. You should understand the differences between centralised and decentralised exchanges, the concept of L1 vs. L2 blockchains, and have interacted with DeFi protocols on-chain.

Analytical Mindset

Proficient in data analysis, with the ability to interpret complex financial models and blockchain data. Have a keen interest in blockchain and crypto. Some programming experience is an advantage. Bonus points if you’ve already written code that interacts with a blockchain.

Hands-On Curiosity

You’re not afraid to get your hands dirty—diving into blockchain explorers, contracts, exploring trades live on-chain, and testing out new protocols.

Strong Communication Skills

You thrive on talking through ideas, collaborating in real-time, and summarising complex concepts both verbally and in written forms.

Self-Directed & Detail-Oriented

Capable of independently scoping research projects, managing your own tasks, and double-checking details before presenting your findings. This is a primarily remote role that favours independent self-starters.

Eager to Learn & Adapt

This space moves fast, and so do we. You’re comfortable adjusting course as new priorities and opportunities arise.

Why This Role

Flexible Schedule

We understand you’re juggling academic commitments, so we offer the flexibility to arrange your work hours around classes and research deadlines.

Impactful Work

Engage with cutting-edge technologies and contribute to pioneering projects in the DeFi space. Your insights will directly influence CLDN’s strategy in DeFi.

Collaborative Environment

Work closely with a driven team that loves exploring new ideas—both the big-picture “why” and the nitty-gritty “how.”

Grow With Us

Expand your network through our deep industry connections. You’ll have a front-row seat to the rapid evolution of decentralised finance.

About Caladan

Caladan brings rationality to strange and unruly markets. We explore the frontier of finance, seek out new opportunities, and make markets more efficient and honest wherever we go. We support exchanges, tokens, and institutional investors with on-exchange liquidity, DeFi expertise, treasury solutions, and investments. Since 2017 we've been a pioneer in crypto market-making, powering over $170B in annual transactions across 1000+ assets.

Key skills/competency

• DeFi
• Blockchain
• Cryptocurrency
• Data Analysis
• Market Research
• Financial Models
• Protocol Analysis
• On-chain Data
• Communication
• Self-Starter