Indian Maritime University (IMU), Kolkata Campus, invites applications for 1 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position to support an innovative AI-based bio-inspired autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) research project. This contract-based role offers a maximum tenure of 3 years or until project completion, funded by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
Overview
The Indian Maritime University, Kolkata Campus, is actively recruiting a Junior Research Fellow to contribute to groundbreaking maritime research. The selected candidate will work on developing an AI-based bio-inspired AUV system specifically engineered for eco-friendly hull maintenance and inspection—a critical advancement in sustainable maritime technology.
This is a government-backed research initiative with funding from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW). The position offers an excellent opportunity for researchers and engineers interested in autonomous systems, marine technology, artificial intelligence, and sustainable maritime practices. Working at IMU, Kolkata Campus, provides access to academic resources, experienced mentorship, and involvement in cutting-edge naval research.
The appointment is contractual in nature, making it ideal for candidates seeking dedicated research experience on a specific, high-impact project without a long-term institutional commitment.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Date of Advertisement | 28 October 2026 |
| Age Counted As On | 1 October 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 28 December 2026 (extendable) |
Candidates should mark their calendars for the application deadline. The deadline is extendable at the organisation's discretion if a sufficient number of qualified applications is not received by the stipulated date.
Application Fee
No application fee is required for this recruitment. All eligible candidates can apply free of cost.
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Total Positions | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 1 | See the official notification |
Eligibility
Age is a critical eligibility parameter for this recruitment. All candidates must fall within the prescribed upper age limit as on 1 October 2026. The age limits are category-wise:
| Category | Upper Age Limit (as on 1 October 2026) |
|---|---|
| General (GEN) / Gen-EWS | 30 years |
| OBC-NCL | 33 years |
| SC/ST/PwD | 35 years |
For detailed information regarding educational qualifications, work experience requirements, technical competencies, subject expertise, and any other eligibility criteria, see the official notification PDF. Candidates are strongly advised to review the complete notification before applying to ensure they meet all specified requirements.
Salary
The position offers a competitive monthly stipend structure that increases with tenure:
| Period | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| Years 1–2 | ₹37,000 + HRA |
| Year 3 | ₹42,000 + HRA |
House Rent Allowance (HRA) is provided as per the university norms. The stipend is performance-based and contingent on satisfactory progress in the research project.
How to Apply
- Download the Application Form: Access the official notification PDF and download the application form with complete instructions.
- Fill in Your Details: Complete all sections of the application form with accurate and truthful information. Include your personal details, educational background, relevant work experience, and research interests.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Prepare soft copies (in PDF format) of all required documents. Typically, these include: degree certificates and transcripts, mark sheets from all academic qualifications, proof of date of birth (birth certificate or passport), category certificate (if SC/ST/OBC/PwD), caste certificate (if applicable), and any other documents mentioned in the notification.
- Prepare Your Application Package: Compile your filled application form along with all supporting documents into a single folder or compressed file for easy transmission.
- Submit via Email and Google Form: Submit your soft copy application through two channels: (a) email to the designated IMU address provided in the notification, and (b) the Google Form link for online submission.
- Verify Your Submission: After submission, note the confirmation details and keep them safe for reference during the selection process.
- Meet the Deadline: Ensure your application reaches both the email and Google Form well before 28 December 2026. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered unless formally extended.
Important Links
- Application Form (Google Form) – Submit Online
- Official Notification PDF – Complete Details
- IMU Official Website – More Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the age limit for this JRF position?
A: The upper age limit is category-wise: General and Gen-EWS candidates must not exceed 30 years; OBC-NCL candidates 33 years; and SC/ST/PwD candidates 35 years. Age is calculated as on 1 October 2026.
Q: What is the tenure and nature of this position?
A: This is a contract-based appointment with a maximum tenure of 3 years or until the project is completed, whichever is earlier. The contract is non-permanent and project-specific.
Q: What is the salary and HRA for this position?
A: The monthly stipend is ₹37,000 plus HRA for the first two years (Years 1–2), and ₹42,000 plus HRA in the third year. HRA is paid as per university norms.
Q: What is the application deadline and can it be extended?
A: The last date to apply is 28 December 2026. Yes, the deadline is extendable if the desired number of applications is not received by that date.
Q: What is the research project about?
A: The project focuses on the development of an AI-based bio-inspired autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) system designed for eco-friendly hull maintenance and inspection. It is funded by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
Q: Is there an application fee, and how do I apply?
A: No application fee is required. Applications must be submitted as soft copies via email and through the Google Form link. Candidates should download the application form from the official notification PDF and attach all required supporting documents.
Disclaimer: Candidates must verify all details, eligibility criteria, and application procedures on the official IMU website and the notification PDF before submitting their applications.