BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus is recruiting 1 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) for a DRDO-funded research project under the Department of Mechanical Engineering. This is a project-based position combining research experience with the opportunity for PhD conversion, making it ideal for post-graduate engineers aspiring to pursue advanced research in mechanical systems and materials science.
Overview
The Birla Institute of Technology & Science (BITS), Pilani's prestigious Goa campus is offering a Junior Research Fellow role under the project titled 'Development of High Damping Shock Isolator for Optronics Signs of ATAGS' (Reference: ARMREB/ADMB/2025/309). This project is funded by the DRDO – Armaments Research Board (ARMREB), a leading research division under India's Defence Research and Development Organisation.
This is an excellent opportunity for recent post-graduates and early-career researchers to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge defence research. The position offers exposure to advanced mechanical engineering concepts, project-based learning, and the potential to convert into a PhD program after the initial tenure, enabling a smooth transition from research fellowship to doctoral studies.
The role is based at BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus, located in Goa, and falls under the Department of Mechanical Engineering. This is not a teaching position but purely research-focused, allowing you to concentrate entirely on project deliverables and technical development.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date to Apply | 11 November 2026 |
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Total Positions | Essential Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 1 | Post Graduate Degree (M.E./M.Tech./M.S.) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Engineering, or Computational Mechanics |
Eligibility
Essential Qualifications: You must possess a Post Graduate Degree (M.E./M.Tech./M.S.) in one of the following specialisations: Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Engineering, or Computational Mechanics. A valid degree certificate from a recognised university is mandatory.
Desirable Qualifications: GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) qualification is strongly preferred. Candidates with:
- Basic knowledge of instrumentation and measurement techniques
- Programming skills (C, MATLAB, Python, or similar languages)
- Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities
- Previous research experience or project work
- Publications or presentations in relevant technical areas
are encouraged to apply. While not mandatory, these skills significantly strengthen your candidacy.
Selection Process: The institute will evaluate applications based on academic credentials, research background, technical aptitude, and fit with project objectives. Selected candidates may be called for an interview (online or in-person) to assess motivation and technical knowledge.
Salary and Benefits
The selected Junior Research Fellow will receive a monthly salary of ₹37,000 plus 20% House Rent Allowance (HRA), bringing the total monthly remuneration to approximately ₹44,400. This is a project-funded position, so salary and duration are contingent on project funding and performance.
Tenure and Career Progression
The initial contract period is 1 year (9 months initially) with the possibility of extension based on project progress and funding availability. Upon successful completion and evaluation, eligible candidates have the opportunity for PhD conversion at BITS Pilani, enabling you to transition directly into a doctoral program without re-applying or appearing for additional entrance examinations.
How to Apply
- Prepare Your CV: Create a detailed Curriculum Vitae (2–3 pages) including educational qualifications, academic scores (CGPA/percentage), relevant coursework, research projects, internships, technical skills, programming languages, and any publications or presentations. Highlight your interest in the specific project.
- Draft a Cover Letter/Statement of Purpose: Write a compelling application letter (300–400 words) expressing your motivation for pursuing research, how your background aligns with the project's objectives, and your career aspirations in mechanical engineering research.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Keep ready certified copies of your post-graduate degree certificate, mark sheets, GATE score card (if applicable), research publications, project reports, and recommendation letters from previous supervisors or professors.
- Email Your Application: Send your CV and application letter to the principal investigator using the email address provided in the official notification PDF. Use a clear subject line: 'JRF Application – [Your Name] – [Specialisation]'.
- Adhere to Deadline: Ensure your email and all attachments are received by 11 November 2026, 5:00 PM (IST) or as specified in the notification. Applications received after the deadline will be rejected automatically.
- Confirm Receipt: After sending your application, wait for a confirmation email from the institute acknowledging receipt. If you do not receive confirmation within 2–3 days, resend your application or contact the provided contact details in the official notification.
- Check Official Notification: Refer to the official notification PDF for the exact email address, any specific document requirements, and additional instructions.
Required Documents Checklist
- Detailed CV/Resume (highlighting research interests and technical skills)
- Cover letter or Statement of Purpose
- Post-graduate degree certificate and mark sheets (all semesters)
- GATE score card (if applicable)
- Proof of specialisation (degree specification or transcripts)
- Copies of research papers, project reports, or technical presentations (if any)
- Recommendation letters from previous research supervisors or professors
- Identity proof and contact details
Important Links
- Official Notification PDF – Download Full JRF Advertisement
- BITS Pilani Goa Campus Official Website
- BITS Pilani Main Official Website
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the application deadline and how do I submit?
A: The last date to apply is 11 November 2026. You must email your CV and application letter directly to the principal investigator. The exact email address and submission format are provided in the official notification PDF. Late submissions will not be considered under any circumstances.
Q: What is the total compensation package?
A: The selected candidate receives ₹37,000 per month plus 20% House Rent Allowance (HRA), totalling approximately ₹44,400 monthly. This is a project-funded position, so payment depends on continued project funding and satisfactory performance.
Q: What qualifications do I need to be eligible?
A: You must hold a Post Graduate Degree (M.E./M.Tech./M.S.) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Engineering, or Computational Mechanics from a recognised university. GATE qualification is preferred but not mandatory. Basic knowledge of instrumentation, programming, and problem-solving skills are desirable.
Q: What is the contract period and will it lead to a PhD?
A: The initial tenure is 1 year (with 9 months as the base contract period), extendable based on project progress and funding. Upon successful completion and evaluation, you will have the opportunity to pursue a PhD at BITS Pilani without having to apply separately to the doctoral program.
Q: What will I be researching during this fellowship?
A: You will work on the project titled 'Development of High Damping Shock Isolator for Optronics Signs of ATAGS,' which is funded by the DRDO – Armaments Research Board. The project involves designing and developing advanced mechanical systems for defence applications, focusing on damping mechanisms and shock isolation.
Q: What are my career prospects after the JRF tenure?
A: After completing your 1-year tenure, you can pursue a PhD at BITS Pilani, potentially continuing work on the same research project or transitioning to other doctoral programs. This fellowship serves as an excellent stepping stone for building a research career in mechanical engineering and materials science.
Applicants must verify all dates, eligibility criteria, fees, vacancy details, and application procedures on the official BITS Pilani website and the official notification PDF before submitting their applications.