National Institute of Technology Kurukshetra and Indian Institute of Technology Indore are jointly recruiting 2 Junior Research Fellows (JRF) for cutting-edge research under the SAKSHAM project (Scientific Advancements in Knowledge for Sustainability, Healthcare, and Materials), funded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). This is a prestigious opportunity for researchers to contribute to groundbreaking work in materials science and machine learning with a competitive salary of ₹37,000 per month plus HRA.
Overview
The SAKSHAM initiative, supported by the ANRF PAIR Program, seeks talented and motivated researchers to work on two distinct, high-impact projects spanning VLSI design and advanced electronics. As a collaborative effort between NIT Kurukshetra (acting as the spoke) and IIT Indore (acting as the hub), this recruitment offers a unique opportunity to work across premier national institutes with access to state-of-the-art research facilities and mentorship from accomplished faculty.
The appointment carries an initial tenure up to 30 June 2027, with the potential for extension until September 2029 or project conclusion, contingent on satisfactory semester-wise performance reviews. This period allows researchers to make meaningful contributions while potentially advancing their academic and professional careers through exposure to interdisciplinary research.
Applicants should note that the workplace may vary between NIT Kurukshetra and IIT Indore based on project requirements, necessitating flexibility and willingness to collaborate across both campuses. This structure leverages the complementary strengths of both institutions to drive innovation in research.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last date to apply | 18 November 2026, 11:59 PM |
| Final-year Master's degree results submission deadline | 15 December 2026 |
Application Fee
No application fee information is mentioned in the official notification. See the official notification for any updates on this matter.
Vacancy Details
| Project Title | Department | Positions | Project Lead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Development and optimization of 2D materials based FETs for AMR detection and therapy applications | Department of VLSI Design and Systems Engineering | 1 | Prof. R. K. Sharma |
| Deep learning Models to classify bacterial samples as resistant or susceptible based on Raman spectral data | Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering | 1 | Dr. Ghanapriya Singh |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution. Final-year Master's students are also eligible to apply, provided they submit their completed degree certificate and final marksheet by 15 December 2026. Submission of results after this deadline will result in the application being deemed ineligible.
Age Limit: The upper age limit is 32 years as on the last date of application, which is 18 November 2026. Age shall be calculated as on this specific date, and candidates exceeding this limit are ineligible.
Field-Specific Requirements: For Project 1 (2D materials FETs for AMR detection), candidates with backgrounds in materials science, electronics, nanotechnology, or allied fields are preferred. For Project 2 (deep learning models for bacterial classification), candidates with expertise in machine learning, data science, electronics, or signal processing are encouraged to apply.
For comprehensive and detailed eligibility requirements, candidates must consult the Official Notification PDF (Advt. No. 36/2026).
How to Apply
- Review the notification: Carefully read the Official Notification PDF (Advt. No. 36/2026) to understand all eligibility criteria, terms, and conditions.
- Download the prescribed format: Obtain the prescribed application format from the notification PDF or the official NIT Kurukshetra website.
- Prepare supporting documents: Gather all required documents in digital format: Master's degree certificate (or enrolment certificate for final-year students), all semester marksheets, valid identity proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport), category certificate if applicable, and any other certificates mentioned in the notification.
- Scan documents: Convert all supporting documents to high-quality PDF scans. Ensure file sizes comply with the limits specified in the Google Form (typically 2–5 MB per file).
- Fill the application: Complete the prescribed application format on your computer with all required information, including personal details, educational qualifications, project preferences, and contact information.
- Access the Google Form: Use the Application Form and Google Form link to begin the submission process.
- Enter application details: Fill in all fields of the Google Form with the information from your completed application format. Double-check all entries for accuracy and completeness.
- Upload documents: Attach all scanned supporting documents to the Google Form in the designated fields, ensuring they are clearly labeled and in the correct format.
- Review submission: Review the entire form one final time, including all entered data and uploaded files, to ensure nothing is missing or incorrect.
- Submit before deadline: Submit the form before 18 November 2026 at 11:59 PM. Applications submitted after the deadline will be automatically rejected and cannot be considered.
- Save confirmation: After submission, save any confirmation message or reference number provided by the Google Form for your records.
- Submit final results (if applicable): If you are a final-year Master's student, submit your degree certificate and final marksheet by 15 December 2026 via the methods specified in the official notification to remain eligible for consideration.
Salary and Benefits
The selected Junior Research Fellows will receive a monthly remuneration of ₹37,000 plus House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per the norms of the institution. Additional benefits may include access to research facilities, participation in seminars and conferences, and exposure to interdisciplinary collaboration. For details on other allowances or benefits, candidates should refer to the official notification or contact NIT Kurukshetra directly.
Selection Process
The selection of candidates will be based on the evaluation of applications, educational qualifications, research potential, and performance in any interviews or assessments conducted by the selection committee. The specific selection methodology will be detailed in the official notification. Semester-wise performance evaluations during the tenure will determine eligibility for continuation beyond the initial appointment period.
Important Links
- Application Form and Google Form
- Official Notification PDF (Advt. No. 36/2026)
- NIT Kurukshetra Official Website
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the monthly salary for Junior Research Fellows at NIT Kurukshetra?
A: Selected JRFs will receive a monthly salary of ₹37,000 plus House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per applicable institutional norms.
Q: What is the age limit for this JRF recruitment?
A: The upper age limit is 32 years as on the last date of application, which is 18 November 2026.
Q: Can final-year Master's students apply for this position?
A: Yes, final-year Master's students are eligible to apply. However, they must submit their final degree results by 15 December 2026 to be considered for the position. Failure to submit results by this deadline will make the application ineligible.
Q: What is the tenure period for the Junior Research Fellow position?
A: The initial appointment is up to 30 June 2027, with possible continuation until September 2029 or co-terminus with the project, subject to semester-wise performance evaluation. Continuation is not guaranteed and depends on performance reviews.
Q: What are the two research projects under the SAKSHAM program?
A: Project 1 involves developing 2D materials-based FETs for AMR detection and therapy applications under Prof. R. K. Sharma in the Department of VLSI Design and Systems Engineering. Project 2 focuses on deep learning models to classify bacterial samples based on Raman spectral data under Dr. Ghanapriya Singh in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering.
Q: Where will the selected JRFs work – at NIT Kurukshetra or IIT Indore?
A: The workplace may be at NIT Kurukshetra (spoke) and IIT Indore (hub), and it may vary from time to time as per project requirements. Candidates should be prepared for flexible work arrangements between both institutes.
Aspirants are advised to verify all details on the official notification and NIT Kurukshetra website before applying. Sarkari Spot is an independent information provider and is not affiliated with NIT Kurukshetra, IIT Indore, or any government agency.