NIT Kurukshetra Recruitment 2026 – 28 Junior Research Fellow Posts!

Overview

NIT Kurukshetra is recruiting 28 Junior Research Fellows (JRFs) to work on research projects under the ANRF (Anusandhan National Research Foundation) PAIR SAKSHAM programme in collaboration with IIT Indore. The projects span three exciting research themes: Advanced Materials, Environmental Sustainability and Energy Technology, and Health and Medical Technologies.

If you’re passionate about research and want to work on nationally important projects sponsored by the Ministry of Science and Technology, this is your opportunity. You’ll gain hands-on research experience while earning a fellowship of ₹37,000 per month plus HRA.

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🏛️ Organization Details

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💼 Total Vacancies: 28 Posts

NIT Kurukshetra is recruiting 28 Junior Research Fellow positions, with one JRF slot per research project across three major research themes. All positions are project-based.

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📊 Vacancy Details

Note: The complete list of all 28 research projects with detailed descriptions is available in the official notification PDF.

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✨ Post Type & Job Type

Post Name: Junior Research Fellow (JRF)

Employment Type: Contract-based Research Position

• Duration: Up to 31 March 2026 initially
• Tenure Extension: May be continued till September 2029 based on performance (evaluated on a semester-wise basis)
• Nature of Work: Full-time research and development work on assigned projects
• Reporting: You’ll work under project supervisors at NIT Kurukshetra and/or IIT Indore

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📱 Application Mode

Online Application Only – Apply through Google Form

All applications must be submitted online using the provided Google Form. No physical or offline applications will be accepted.

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🌐 Official Website

https://nitkkr.ac.in

For updates, official notification, and application form, visit the NIT Kurukshetra official website regularly.

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📅 Important Dates

Important: Mark your calendar! The application deadline is 12 February 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted. Apply early to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

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🎓 Educational Qualifications

You must have a post-graduation degree to apply for this position. Here’s what’s required:

Essential Qualification:

Post-Graduation Degree in any of the following fields:

• Basic Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology, etc.)
• Engineering (All branches – Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Electronics, etc.)
• Pharmacy (M.Pharma)
• Technology (M.Tech in any specialization)
• Any other relevant post-graduate programme

Minimum Academic Performance:

• General Category: Minimum 60% aggregate marks or CGPA 6.5 on a 10-point scale
• SC/ST/PwD Category: Minimum 55% aggregate marks or CGPA 6.0 on a 10-point scale (5% relaxation)

Degree Requirements:

• Your degree must be from a UGC-recognized University, Institute, or Autonomous body
• Degrees from reputable institutions across India are acceptable
• Dual degrees (e.g., B.Tech + M.Tech) are acceptable if they meet the above criteria

Desirable Qualification (Nice to Have):

• CSIR/UGC-NET Qualification – If you’ve cleared this, it’s a plus!
• GATE Score – Engineering graduates with GATE qualification are preferred
• GPAT Score – Pharmacy graduates with GPAT qualification are preferred

Having any of these additional qualifications will strengthen your application and improve your chances of selection.

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💰 Fellowship / Salary Details (Per Month)

Here’s what you’ll earn as a Junior Research Fellow:

Fellowship Details:

• Fellowship Amount: ₹37,000 per month (fixed)
• HRA: Applicable as per ANRF guidelines (typical HRA ranges from ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 depending on your location)
• Payment Mode: Direct transfer to your bank account (NEFT/RTGS)
• Tax Status: Fellowships are taxable as per income tax norms
• Other Benefits: Access to NIT facilities, library, computer labs, and research resources

Duration & Payment:

• Initial Contract: Up to 31 March 2026
• Possible Extension: Till September 2029 if your performance is satisfactory (reviewed semester-wise)
• Payment Schedule: Monthly

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🎯 Selection Process

Getting selected is a two-step process that’s straightforward and merit-based:

Step 1: Application Screening & Shortlisting

• Your application will be reviewed for eligibility
• Shortlisting will be based on:
  • Your educational qualifications
  • Academic performance (marks/CGPA)
  • Relevant experience (if any)
  • Match with research project requirements
  • Any additional qualifications (NET, GATE, GPAT, etc.)

What You Need to Know:

• Incomplete applications will be rejected outright
• Ensure all documents are properly scanned and uploaded
• Quality matters – poor scans may lead to rejection

Step 2: Personal Interview

• Who Gets Called: Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews
• Interview Format: To be announced (likely online or at NIT Kurukshetra campus)
• Interview Focus:
  • Your research interests and career goals
  • Relevance to the specific research project
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Communication skills
  • Technical knowledge in your field
• Interview Duration: Typically 20-30 minutes
• Notification: You’ll be informed via email with date, time, and format

Important Points:

• No Written Exam: There’s no written test or entrance exam
• No TA/DA: NIT Kurukshetra won’t reimburse your travel and accommodation for interviews
• Interview Attendance is Mandatory: If called, you must appear (online or offline as notified)

Final Selection:

• Merit list will be prepared based on interview performance combined with application review
• Selected candidates will be notified via email
• You’ll need to accept the offer and submit joining formalities within the stipulated time

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⏳ Age Limit

Maximum Age:

32 years as on 01 January 2026

This means if your date of birth is on or after 01 January 1994, you’re eligible (age-wise).

Age Relaxation for Reserved Categories:

How Age Relaxation Works:

• If you belong to SC/ST category and get 5 years relaxation, your upper age limit becomes 37 years
• If you’re a female candidate and get 5 years relaxation, your upper age limit becomes 37 years
• Relaxations are NOT cumulative – you get the maximum applicable relaxation for your category

Example:

If you’re an SC female candidate, you get the maximum relaxation available for SC or female category, not both added together.

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📑 How to Apply Online

Follow these simple steps to submit your application:

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents

Prepare scanned copies of the following documents. Combine them into a single PDF file (maximum size: 5-10 MB):

• Academic Certificates:
  • 10th Class mark sheet/certificate
  • 12th Class mark sheet/certificate
  • Bachelor’s degree certificate and mark sheets (all semesters)
  • Master’s degree certificate and mark sheets (all semesters)
• Personal Documents:
  • Colored passport-size photograph (JPG/PNG, 4×6 cm)
  • Scanned signature (JPG/PNG)
  • Valid photo ID (Aadhar, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License)
  • Your Aadhar number (for identification)
• Certificates (if applicable):
  • CSIR/UGC-NET certificate (if you’ve cleared it)
  • GATE score card (if you have GATE qualification)
  • GPAT score card (for pharmacy graduates)
  • Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC) – required if claiming reservation
  • PwD certificate (if applicable)

Pro Tip: Get all documents attested by a gazetted officer or notary if possible. It strengthens your application.

Step 2: Create a Single PDF File

• Use an online PDF merger or your computer’s built-in PDF tools
• Order of documents in PDF:
  1. Passport-size photo
  2. Signature
  3. 10th mark sheet
  4. 12th mark sheet
  5. Bachelor’s degree certificate
  6. Bachelor’s mark sheets (all semesters)
  7. Master’s degree certificate
  8. Master’s mark sheets (all semesters)
  9. GATE/NET/GPAT certificates (if any)
  10. Category certificate (if applicable)
  11. PwD certificate (if applicable)
• File Name: Use a clear name like “FirstName_LastName_JRF_Application.pdf”
• File Size: Keep it under 10 MB for easy upload

Step 3: Fill the Online Google Form

1. Visit the application link: https://forms.gle/57Loho1dYxwuyc5b9
2. Fill in Personal Details:
   • Full name (as per Aadhar/official documents)
   • Date of birth
   • Contact number (must be active)
   • Email ID (must be valid and regularly checked)
   • Permanent address
   • Current address
3. Fill Academic Information:
   • 10th passing year and percentage/CGPA
   • 12th passing year and percentage/CGPA
   • Bachelor’s degree details (institution, year, percentage/CGPA)
   • Master’s degree details (institution, year, percentage/CGPA)
   • Specialization/Subject of Master’s degree
4. Select Category:
   • General (UR), SC, ST, OBC, or EWS
   • Female (if applicable)
   • PwD (if applicable)
5. Additional Information:
   • Do you have CSIR/UGC-NET? (Yes/No)
   • Do you have GATE? (Yes/No)
   • Do you have GPAT? (Yes/No)
   • Any research publications? (List them if yes)
   • Any relevant work experience? (Mention briefly)
6. Research Interests:
   • Which research theme interests you most?
   • Any specific projects you’re interested in?
   • Brief statement about your research interests
7. Upload Documents:
   • Upload your single PDF file containing all documents
   • Ensure the file is clearly readable
   • Try uploading before the deadline to avoid server issues

Step 4: Review Your Application

• Before submitting, carefully review all information
• Check spelling of your name and contact details
• Verify dates of birth and academic years
• Ensure the PDF is properly uploaded and visible

Step 5: Submit the Form

• Click the “SUBMIT” button
• Wait for confirmation – You should receive a confirmation message on your screen
• Take a screenshot of the confirmation page or save the confirmation email
• NOTE: Keep this confirmation for your records

Step 6: After Submission

• You’ll receive a confirmation email at the email address you provided
• Save this email – It contains your application reference number
• Check your spam folder if you don’t receive the confirmation in 5 minutes
• Do not worry about minor typos after submission – contact the helpline if there are serious errors

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⚙️ Key Documents Required

Documents to Submit with Online Application:

• ✓ Colored passport-size photograph (JPG/PNG)
• ✓ Scanned signature (JPG/PNG)
• ✓ 10th Class mark sheet and certificate
• ✓ 12th Class mark sheet and certificate
• ✓ Bachelor’s degree certificate
• ✓ Bachelor’s mark sheets (all semesters)
• ✓ Master’s degree certificate
• ✓ Master’s mark sheets (all semesters)
• ✓ CSIR/UGC-NET certificate (if applicable)
• ✓ GATE score card (if applicable)
• ✓ GPAT score card (if applicable)
• ✓ Category certificate – SC/ST/OBC (if claiming reservation)
• ✓ PwD certificate with disability percentage (if applicable)
• ✓ Valid photo ID copy (Aadhar/Passport/Voter ID/Driving License)
• ✓ Aadhar number (for verification)

Documents to Bring at Interview (If Selected):

Bring original copies of all the above documents plus:

• ✓ All original degree certificates
• ✓ All original mark sheets
• ✓ Original category certificate
• ✓ Original PwD certificate (if applicable)
• ✓ Original GATE/NET/GPAT certificates
• ✓ Original valid photo ID
• ✓ Your resume/CV highlighting research interests
• ✓ Any research publications (if you have any)

Important Notes:

• Original documents are essential – You must bring originals to interview if selected
• Self-attestation: All photocopies should be self-attested
• Foreign documents: If you have degrees from foreign universities, provide certified English translations
• Document clarity: Ensure all scans are clear and readable; blurry documents may be rejected
• Recent photograph: The passport photo should be recent (within 6 months) and clear

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📘 Important Links

For Latest Updates: Regularly check the NIT Kurukshetra website and your email for notifications about interview dates, results, and joining details.

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❓ Quick FAQ – Answers to Common Questions

Q1: What’s the last date to apply?

A: The application deadline is 12 February 2026 at 5:00 PM. No applications will be accepted after this date.

Q2: Do I need to pay any application fee?

A: No application fee is required. The online form is completely free to fill and submit.

Q3: Can I apply if I haven’t cleared NET or GATE?

A: Yes! NET and GATE are not mandatory. They’re just desirable qualifications that strengthen your application. You can apply with just your Master’s degree and good academic marks.

Q4: I’m from a non-engineering background. Can I apply?

A: Absolutely! You can apply if you have any Master’s degree in Basic Sciences, Pharmacy, Technology, or Engineering. The projects are designed for diverse academic backgrounds.

Q5: What if I’m above 32 years old?

A: Check if you belong to a reserved category (SC/ST/OBC/Female/PwD). These categories get age relaxation. For example, SC/ST candidates can apply up to 37 years of age (5 years relaxation). If you’re general category and above 32, unfortunately you’re not eligible.

Q6: Will interviews be conducted online or offline?

A: NIT Kurukshetra hasn’t specified yet. They’ll announce the format along with interview dates. It’s likely to be online given the current trends, but be prepared for either format.

Q7: Do I need to have published research papers to apply?

A: No, publications are not mandatory. However, if you have published research papers, mention them in your application as it improves your chances. Many fresh graduates without publications get selected based on strong academics.

Q8: What if I made a mistake in my application?

A: Unfortunately, most online forms don’t allow editing after submission. Contact NIT Kurukshetra immediately if you spot a serious error (like wrong date of birth) and request correction before the deadline.

Q9: How much HRA will I get?

A: HRA (House Rent Allowance) depends on where you’re posted. Typical HRA rates are:

• Tier-1 cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore): ₹9,000-₹12,000
• Tier-2 cities (Kurukshetra, Indore): ₹5,000-₹7,000 The exact amount will be specified during joining.

Q10: Can the fellowship be extended after March 2026?

A: Yes! While the initial appointment is till 31 March 2026, if your performance is good, your fellowship can be extended till September 2029 (evaluated on a semester-wise basis). This means you could potentially work for 3.5 years on the same project.

Q11: What’s the difference between NIT Kurukshetra and IIT Indore in this project?

A: NIT Kurukshetra is the primary recruiting institute. IIT Indore is a collaboration partner. Depending on your assigned project, you might work primarily at NIT Kurukshetra or at IIT Indore, or split time between both.

Q12: Is this position permanent or contract-based?

A: This is a contract-based research position. It’s not permanent employment. However, it’s a valuable stepping stone for your research career and can lead to PhD opportunities or other research positions.

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🌟 Why Apply to NIT Kurukshetra JRF?

Here are excellent reasons to apply:

✅ Work with Premier Institutions – NIT Kurukshetra is a top-tier engineering institute, collaborated with IIT Indore

✅ Research Excellence – Contribute to nationally important research projects funded by ANRF under the Ministry of Science & Technology

✅ Good Fellowship – ₹37,000 per month plus HRA is a competitive stipend for research positions in India

✅ Career Development – Gain valuable research experience that prepares you for PhD programmes or academia

✅ State-of-the-Art Facilities – Access to advanced laboratories, libraries, and research resources

✅ Three Exciting Themes:

• Advanced Materials
• Environmental Sustainability & Energy Technology
• Health & Medical Technologies

✅ Networking Opportunity – Work alongside experienced researchers and faculty members

✅ Published Research – Opportunity to contribute to scientific papers and publications

✅ Extension Possibility – Potential to extend till 2029 if performance is good

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⚠️ Important General Instructions

Before applying, keep these points in mind:

• Be Honest: Provide true information only. False information leads to disqualification
• Indian Citizenship Required: Only Indian nationals are eligible
• Keep Details Updated: Your phone and email must be active throughout the process
• Document Quality: Ensure all scans are clear and legible
• Submit Early: Don’t wait until the last day; apply at least 2-3 days before the deadline
• Read Carefully: Before submitting, read through the entire form one more time
• No Refund: Once submitted, applications cannot be withdrawn or refunded
• Interview Attendance Mandatory: If shortlisted, you must attend the interview
• No TA/DA: NIT Kurukshetra won’t reimburse your travel costs for interviews
• Performance-Based: Continuation of fellowship after March 2026 depends on your performance

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📞 Contact & Support

For any queries regarding this recruitment:

• Official Website: https://nitkkr.ac.in
• Email: Check official notification for contact email
• Phone: Check official notification for contact numbers

Reach out only for genuine clarifications. The official notification will have complete contact details.

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✨ Final Thoughts

This is an excellent opportunity to launch your research career with India’s premier institutions. Whether you’re interested in materials science, environmental sustainability, or healthcare technologies, there’s a project for you.

The fellowship of ₹37,000 plus HRA is reasonable, and the research experience you’ll gain is invaluable for your future – whether you pursue a PhD, work in industry research, or join academia.

Don’t miss this opportunity – apply now before 12 February 2026!

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Last Updated: February 3, 2026