Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, a premier research institution in Madhya Pradesh, is recruiting 1 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) for the Department of Chemical Engineering. This is a SERB-funded research position focusing on metal-organic-framework-based electrochemical sensors for detecting heavy metal ions in water. The application deadline is 3 November 2026.
Overview
IISER Bhopal is conducting recruitment for a Junior Research Fellow role under Advertisement No. SERB/CHE/2023-2024/39. The position is part of a Department of Science and Technology (DST) – Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) funded research project titled "Metal-Organic-Framework-based Electrochemical Sensors Incorporated on a Paper Scaffold for the Detection of Heavy Metal Ions in Water." This is an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers and postgraduates to contribute to cutting-edge research in chemical engineering and environmental science.
The role is based at IISER Bhopal's campus in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The position offers a short-term engagement, ideal for scholars looking to gain hands-on research experience in a world-class research environment before pursuing doctoral studies or advanced careers in research and development.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Release Date | 26 October 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 3 November 2026 |
| Expected Joining Date | On or before 12 November 2026 |
Vacancy Details
| Post | Total Vacancies | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) / PA-1 | 1 | Below 28 years |
Salary and Remuneration
The monthly remuneration for this position is structured based on qualifications:
- For CSIR/UGC NET or GATE qualified candidates (JRF): ₹37,000 + HRA (as applicable) per month
- For candidates without CSIR/UGC NET or GATE qualification: ₹30,000 + HRA (as applicable) per month or as per funding agency guidelines
HRA (House Rent Allowance) will be provided as applicable. The exact payment structure and allowances will be confirmed during the joining process and will adhere to SERB/DST guidelines.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must satisfy the following eligibility requirements:
- Age: Must be below 28 years old as on the application closing date (3 November 2026)
- Educational Qualification: Master's degree (M.E., M.Tech, M.Sc) in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field. See the official notification for detailed subject requirements.
- Preferred Qualifications: Candidates holding CSIR-UGC National Eligibility Test (NET) or Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) qualifications are preferred and will receive the higher pay scale (₹37,000 + HRA)
- Research Background: Prior research experience, especially in electrochemistry, material science, or water treatment technologies, is advantageous
Specific course requirements and relaxation criteria (if any) for candidates from SC/ST/OBC categories must be verified in the official notification PDF.
How to Apply
- Download the official notification PDF from the IISER Bhopal website to understand the complete application process, required documents, and submission address.
- Prepare a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting your educational qualifications, research experience, publications, and relevant technical skills in chemistry, materials science, or related fields.
- Collect supporting documents: certified copies of degree certificates (Bachelor's and Master's), mark sheets, proof of CSIR-NET or GATE qualifications (if applicable), contact details of referees, and any other documents specified in the notification.
- Compose an email with a clear subject line as specified in the notification (e.g., "Application for JRF – SERB/CHE/2023-2024/39") to the email address mentioned in the official PDF.
- Attach all required documents to your email in PDF format, ensuring file sizes are manageable.
- Submit your email before the deadline: 3 November 2026. Applications sent after this date and time will not be accepted.
- Retain a copy of your sent email and any acknowledgement from the recruitment team for future reference and verification purposes.
Tenure and Expected Duration
This is a short-term research position with a tenure of 1 month or until completion of the research project, whichever is earlier. Selected candidates are expected to join on or before 12 November 2026. The exact end date will depend on the project timeline and milestones as set by IISER Bhopal's Department of Chemical Engineering.
Selection Process
While detailed selection criteria are provided in the official notification, the process typically involves:
- Screening of applications based on educational qualifications, relevant experience, and alignment with project requirements
- Interview (online or in-person) to assess technical knowledge, research aptitude, and communication skills
- Final selection and offer of appointment
Shortlisted candidates will be notified via email with details of the interview date and format.
Important Links
- Official Recruitment Notification PDF – Complete advertisement, eligibility, and submission guidelines
- DAS Research Group Website – Learn about the research project and group
Preparation Tips
Candidates applying for this position should focus on strengthening their understanding of electrochemistry, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and water quality analysis. Familiarity with analytical techniques such as SEM, XRD, and electrochemical methods will be valuable. Review recent literature on heavy metal ion detection and sensor development to demonstrate current knowledge during interviews. Highlight any hands-on laboratory experience, publications, or conference presentations in your CV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the salary for this JRF position?
The salary is ₹37,000 + HRA per month for candidates with CSIR/UGC NET or GATE qualifications, and ₹30,000 + HRA per month for others, or as per funding agency guidelines.
Q2. Do I need GATE or NET qualification to apply?
No, GATE/NET is not mandatory. However, candidates with these qualifications receive a higher salary tier (₹37,000 + HRA). Those without these credentials can still apply for the lower pay scale (₹30,000 + HRA).
Q3. What is the age limit for this position?
Applicants must be below 28 years of age as of the application closing date (3 November 2026).
Q4. How long is the position tenure?
The position is offered for 1 month or until project completion, whichever comes first. The expected joining date is on or before 12 November 2026.
Q5. What documents do I need to submit?
You will need your CV, certified copies of degree certificates and mark sheets, GATE/NET certificates (if applicable), contact details, and any other documents specified in the official notification. See the official notification PDF for the complete list.
Q6. How should I submit my application?
Applications must be submitted via email to the address specified in the official notification PDF. Ensure you send your email before 3 November 2026 with the subject line and documents as instructed.
Disclaimer: Candidates are advised to verify all details, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, and important dates, directly from the official IISER Bhopal recruitment notification before applying.