Indian Institute of Technology (ISM) Dhanbad is recruiting 1 Project Associate-I for a research initiative under Project No. SRDP 1306 I (Sanction No. DAR/27/2026-27, dated April 2026). This is a fixed-tenure research position ideal for Mechanical Engineering graduates seeking hands-on experience in an academic research environment. The position offers a flexible fellowship structure and the opportunity to contribute to an ongoing project at one of India's premier technical institutes.
Overview
The Project Associate-I role is a temporary research position designed to support ongoing academic and research activities at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad. This is not a permanent appointment but an opportunity to gain valuable experience in project-based research within a premier technical institution. The position is particularly suited for recent graduates or early-career professionals who want to develop research skills and contribute to technical projects. As a Project Associate, you will work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and collaborate with faculty members and other research team members. The institute provides a structured research environment with access to laboratories, libraries, and academic resources. This position is ideal for candidates aspiring to pursue higher studies in engineering or planning a career in research and development.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notice Issued | 29 October 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply by Email | 6 November 2026 |
| Project Tenure | Maximum 6 months or until 28 February 2027 |
Application Fee
No application fee is mentioned in the official notification. See the official notification for complete details on any associated costs or conditions.
Vacancy Details
| Post | Number of Vacancies | Fellowship Structure |
|---|---|---|
| Project Associate-I | 1 | ₹31,000 + HRA or ₹25,000 + HRA (based on qualifications) |
Eligibility
Essential Qualification: B.E. or B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering
Age Limit: Maximum 35 years at the time of application
Fellowship Structure: Your monthly fellowship is determined by your educational qualifications and examination background:
- ₹31,000 + HRA: For candidates selected through a National Eligibility Test, specifically CSIR-UGC NET (including Lectureship or Assistant Professorship tier), GATE examination, or selection through a national-level examination conducted by a Central Government department or its agencies and institutions.
- ₹25,000 + HRA: For all other candidates who do not meet the above criteria, as per IIT (ISM) Dhanbad rules and regulations.
The Higher Research Allowance (HRA) is in addition to the base fellowship amount. HRA rates are determined according to IIT (ISM) Dhanbad's administrative guidelines.
How to Apply
- Prepare your application materials: Gather your updated CV highlighting academic achievements, technical skills, research interests, and any relevant project experience or publications.
- Collect required documents: Obtain scanned copies of educational certificates from 10th standard onwards, degree certificates, and transcripts for all qualifications up to your highest degree.
- Document your examination qualifications: If you have qualified CSIR-UGC NET, GATE, or any national-level examination conducted by a Central Government department, prepare copies of your qualification certificates or scorecard to support the higher fellowship bracket application.
- Compile a single application file: Organize all documents in a logical sequence (CV first, followed by certificates in chronological order). You may create a single PDF file combining all documents or send them as clearly labeled separate attachments.
- Prepare your email: Compose a professional email with the subject line 'Application for Project Associate-I Position – SRDP 1306 I' or similar clear reference to the post and project number.
- Submit by email: Send your complete application to Dr. Santosh Kumar Behera, the Principal Investigator, before 6 November 2026. Ensure your email is sent and received before the deadline.
- Verification: Keep a record of your submission time and maintain a copy of all documents sent. Note the exact timestamp of your email transmission in case clarification is needed.
Salary and Fellowship
The position offers a monthly fellowship (not a salary, as this is a research position) ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹31,000 plus HRA (House Rent Allowance) depending on your qualifications and examination background. Candidates holding qualifications such as CSIR-UGC NET or GATE will receive the higher fellowship bracket of ₹31,000 + HRA per month. All other eligible candidates will receive ₹25,000 + HRA. The fellowship is disbursed on a monthly basis as per institute procedures. Additional benefits such as access to institute facilities, library resources, and academic infrastructure are typically available to research personnel.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the essential qualifications required for Project Associate-I?
A: You must possess a B.E. or B.Tech degree in Mechanical Engineering. The maximum age limit is 35 years at the time of application. These are the mandatory eligibility criteria set by IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
Q: How much fellowship will I receive?
A: The monthly fellowship depends on your qualifications. If you are selected through CSIR-UGC NET (including Lectureship or Assistant Professorship tier), GATE, or a national-level examination by a Central Government department or its agencies, you will receive ₹31,000 + HRA. Otherwise, you will receive ₹25,000 + HRA as per IIT (ISM) Dhanbad rules.
Q: What is the duration of this project position?
A: The position is offered for a maximum of 6 months or until 28 February 2027, whichever is earlier. The tenure is fixed-term based on project completion and requirements.
Q: How do I submit my application?
A: You must submit your complete application by email to Dr. Santosh Kumar Behera, the Principal Investigator. Include your CV, educational certificates from 10th standard to highest qualification, and any documents proving national-level examination qualifications if applicable. The last date for email submission is 6 November 2026. Ensure your email is received before the deadline.
Q: Is there an application fee for this recruitment?
A: There is no application fee mentioned in the official notification. See the official notification for complete terms and conditions regarding costs and eligibility confirmation.
Q: When will selection results be announced and how will candidates be notified?
A: The official notification does not specify a result announcement date or notification method. See the official notification or contact IIT (ISM) Dhanbad directly for information on the selection timeline, interview schedule, and candidate notification procedure.
Disclaimer: Please verify all details, dates, eligibility criteria, and application procedures on the official IIT (ISM) Dhanbad website and the official notification before submitting your application.