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Crypto Research Associate, Finance

Crypto Research Associate, Finance

locationChicago, IL, USA
PublishedPublished: 4/14/2026
Full Time

Job Description:

The Role

We are seeking a Crypto Research Associate to join the Fidelity Digital Asset Management business and report directly to the Head of Investments. This team of multi-disciplinary researchers will be focused on developing frameworks for the evaluation of tokens, and the associated blockchain and protocols, that form the basis of the rapidly evolving blockchain economy. The Associate will be responsible for managing DeFi sector coverage and owning asset selection performance within investment strategies. In addition, the individual will serve as the subject-matter expert to partner with Product, Strategists and Risk on new on-chain investment products.

One of the primary objectives of this team is to bring the rigor and discipline found in the best investment research teams in traditional asset management to the world of digital assets. Members of this team must have a track record of conducting high quality hands-on investment-oriented research coupled with a demonstrated knowledge of crypto and ability to apply critical thinking to evaluating utility of blockchain networks and associated protocols. The Research team’s output will enable the development of passive and active investment products that allow Fidelity’s customers to gain exposure to growth in this exciting new asset class.

The Associate will have three main deliverables with a focus on fundamental research for Finance protocols:

  • Fundamental analysis and tools: Crafting “investment memos” covering protocol economics, governance, risk dependencies, and incentives. Monitoring previous reviews and building models to assess utility and risk. Ability to query data, perform diligence and quality control, and structure analytics from APIs and tables.

  • Product development: Active participant in an investment forum to discuss and debate asset selection views and organize materials for product development insights.

  • Thought leadership: Engaging with Strategists on framing and content for thought leadership, education and pitchbooks.

Education and Experience

  • 2+ years of experience in investment research, with a portion focused on decentralized finance (DeFi).

  • Advanced degree in Finance, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field is encouraged.

  • Demonstrated experience writing professional research reports, preferably within DeFi highlighting trade-offs of various Finance protocols or subsectors (DEX, Lending, Options, etc.).

  • Experience with portfolio construction and managing against a risk budget is a plus.

The Skills You Bring

  • Deep understanding of the current state of various DeFi projects and new projects or integrations.

  • Familiarity with asset valuation and smart contracts (trading on-chain).

  • Strong hands-on research capabilities and an ability to communicate research to a broad audience.

  • Collaborative, creative and team-oriented approach to R&D, investing and technology. Ability to work across teams whose skill sets span blockchain, fundamental and quant research, data-science and technology.

  • Familiarity with modern technology and programming platforms. E.g., Python, SQL, Solidity and cloud-oriented data technology (AWS, Azure, S3, Snowflake).

The base salary range for this position is $90,000 - $175,000 per year.

Placement in the range will vary based on job responsibilities and scope, geographic location, candidate’s relevant experience, and other factors.

Base salary is only part of the total compensation package. Depending on the position and eligibility requirements, the offer package may also include bonus or other variable compensation.


We offer a wide range of benefits to meet your evolving needs and help you live your best life at work and at home. These benefits include comprehensive health care coverage and emotional well-being support, market-leading retirement, generous paid time off and parental leave, charitable giving employee match program, and educational assistance including student loan repayment, tuition reimbursement, and learning resources to develop your career. Note, the application window closes when the position is filled or unposted.

Most roles at Fidelity are Hybrid, requiring associates to work onsite every other week (all business days, M-F) in a Fidelity office. This does not apply to Remote or fully Onsite roles. Some roles may have unique onsite requirements. Please consult with your recruiter for the specific expectations for this position.

Please be advised that Fidelity’s business is governed by the provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, the Investment Company Act of 1940, ERISA, numerous state laws governing securities, investment and retirement-related financial activities and the rules and regulations of numerous self-regulatory organizations, including FINRA, among others. Those laws and regulations may restrict Fidelity from hiring and/or associating with individuals with certain Criminal Histories.

Certifications:

Category:

Investment Professionals