National Institute of Technology Calicut (NIT Calicut) in Kerala is recruiting 1 Junior Research Fellow for the Department of Mechanical Engineering on a contract, project-based basis under a DRDO-funded research initiative. This is a valuable opportunity for research-oriented postgraduate candidates in Materials Science, Physics, or Photonics to gain hands-on experience in an academic and research-rich environment.
Overview
The Junior Research Fellow position is part of Advertisement No. JRF-DRDO-DFTM-/MED/KPM-011, a DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) funded research project at NIT Calicut. The role is located within the Department of Mechanical Engineering and is ideal for candidates seeking to develop expertise in materials science, photonics, or physics-related research. As a contract-based position, it offers the flexibility of project-specific engagement with clear performance milestones and deliverables. The position provides candidates with exposure to cutting-edge research methodologies, collaboration with experienced faculty, and the opportunity to contribute to research publications and innovations. This role suits candidates who are passionate about research and wish to transition from their postgraduate studies into practical research work before pursuing a PhD or a career in industry or academia.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Date of Notice | 12 November 2026 |
| Last Date for Application Submission | 10 December 2026 |
| Tentative Interview Date (Online) | 15 December 2026 |
Application Fee
No application fee is charged for this recruitment. The application process is completely free and accessible to all eligible candidates. There are no hidden charges or submission fees involved.
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Number of Posts | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow | 1 | PG in Materials Science, Physics, or Photonics with valid GATE or NET; Maximum age 35 years |
Eligibility
Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a Post-Graduate (Masters) degree in Materials Science, Physics, or Photonics from a recognised university in India or abroad. Your academic transcripts must demonstrate a strong foundation in relevant subjects. Additionally, a valid GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) or NET (National Eligibility Test) score is mandatory. The GATE/NET score validates your aptitude and readiness for research-level work and must be current as per the official notification guidelines.
Age Limit: The maximum age limit is 35 years as calculated on 10 December 2026 (the last date of application submission). Candidates above this age on the deadline are automatically ineligible, regardless of other qualifications. Age relaxation, if any, will be as per government rules and should be confirmed in the official notification.
Job Type and Duration: This is a contract-based, project-funded position, not a permanent appointment. The contract duration is typically tied to the DRDO research project timeline. Employment terms, notice period, and termination conditions will be governed by the project agreement and NIT Calicut's institutional policies.
Documents to Prepare: Ensure you have scanned copies of your Masters degree certificate, academic transcripts, GATE or NET scorecard, and Aadhaar or PAN (for identity verification). If you have prior research experience, publications, or relevant projects, compile those as supporting documents to strengthen your application.
How to Apply
- Visit the official notification PDF and read all instructions, terms, and project details carefully. This document contains the exact email address and any additional submission guidelines.
- Prepare your application package: write a concise yet detailed CV (2–3 pages) highlighting your educational background, GATE/NET score, any research internships, publications, conference presentations, or relevant projects. Emphasise skills relevant to materials science or photonics research.
- Gather all supporting documents: attested photocopies of your Masters degree certificate and transcript, your GATE or NET scorecard, identity proof (Aadhaar/PAN), and any certificates of merit, research experience, or relevant coursework.
- Compose a professional email with a clear subject line (e.g., "Application for Junior Research Fellow – JRF-DRDO-DFTM-/MED/KPM-011"). Attach your CV and all documents as a single PDF file or as separately named PDFs.
- Send your email to the address specified in the official notification. Double-check the recipient email address to avoid submission errors. Your email timestamp must be before 11:59 PM on 10 December 2026.
- Retain a copy of your email and attachment for your records. Note the time of submission, as applications received after the deadline will be rejected automatically.
- Monitor your email inbox and spam folder for any communication from NIT Calicut's HR or the research project coordinator. Shortlisted candidates will be notified separately with interview details, typically by 12 December 2026.
- Prepare for the online interview (tentatively 15 December 2026) by reviewing your CV, refreshing your knowledge of materials science or photonics fundamentals, and familiarising yourself with the DRDO research project scope mentioned in the notification.
Salary
The selected candidate will receive a consolidated monthly salary of ₹37,000 plus 20% House Rent Allowance (HRA), totalling ₹44,400 per month. The exact breakup, payment schedule, and any additional benefits (such as medical, leave, or provident fund contributions) will be as per NIT Calicut's institutional rules and the DRDO project agreement. Since this is a contract position, benefits may differ from permanent government roles; clarify all terms in writing before joining.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the salary and job type for this Junior Research Fellow position?
A: The position offers a consolidated monthly salary of ₹37,000 plus 20% HRA (₹44,400 total). It is a contract-based, project-funded role under a DRDO research initiative with no guarantee of permanent employment after the project ends.
Q: What qualifications must I have to be eligible?
A: You must hold a Post-Graduate (Masters) degree in Materials Science, Physics, or Photonics and possess a valid GATE or NET score. Both the degree and the national-level test score are mandatory; one without the other will render you ineligible.
Q: What is the age limit and how is it determined?
A: The maximum age limit is 35 years as on 10 December 2026 (the last application date). Your age is calculated based on your date of birth; if you exceed 35 years on this date, you are ineligible. No age relaxation has been mentioned; verify the official notification for any applicable relaxations.
Q: How do I submit my application and what documents do I need?
A: You must apply via email to the address in the official notification with your CV, Masters degree certificate, GATE/NET scorecard, academic transcripts, and identity proof. Ensure your email is sent before 10 December 2026 and retain a copy for reference.
Q: When is the interview and how will I be notified?
A: The online interview is tentatively scheduled for 15 December 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be notified separately with the interview link, time, and any special instructions. Check your email regularly and ensure your contact details in the application are correct.
Q: Is there any application fee for this recruitment?
A: No application fee is required. This recruitment is entirely free; there are no submission charges or hidden costs.
Candidates must verify all details, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, deadline, and selection process, on the official NIT Calicut website and the official notification PDF before submitting their applications.