IIT Madras Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online

Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) invites applications for Junior Research Fellow (JRF) positions across various research projects and departments. IIT Madras is one of India's premier autonomous engineering and research institutions located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. JRF positions are project-based temporary research roles offered to candidates with engineering or science backgrounds to work on sponsored research projects under faculty supervision. These positions provide opportunities to pursue higher studies (PhD) while working on cutting-edge research in areas like Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and other interdisciplinary domains. Selected candidates typically work for 2-3 years on specific research projects with scope for extension based on project requirements and performance.

Important Dates

Note: Dates are indicative and vary by individual project. Check official notifications for specific project timelines.

Vacancy Details (Typical / Indicative)

Note: Vacancies vary significantly by project and department. Total positions across all projects may range from 50-100 annually. Reservation follows Government of India norms.

Educational Qualification

• Essential: Bachelor's degree (BE/B.Tech) in relevant engineering discipline with minimum 60% marks (55% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) OR Master's degree (ME/M.Tech/MSc) in relevant field with minimum 60% marks (55% for SC/ST/PwD)
• Preferred: GATE qualification or NET-JRF qualification in relevant subject
• Specific Requirements: Vary by project - may require specialization in Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or related fields
• Candidates enrolled in final year of qualifying degree may apply provisionally

Age Limit

Age Relaxation (as on last date of application)

Nationality

• Indian Citizens only
• Candidates must be citizens of India as per Government of India norms

How to Apply

1. Visit the official IIT Madras recruitment portal at www.iitm.ac.in or the specific project page mentioned in the notification
2. Navigate to the 'Careers' or 'Opportunities' section and locate the relevant JRF position notification
3. Click on 'Apply Online' link for the desired project/position
4. Register as a new user by providing basic details (name, email, mobile number) and create login credentials
5. Log in using registered credentials and fill the online application form with personal, educational, and experience details
6. Upload scanned documents: photograph (max 50KB), signature (max 20KB), educational certificates, caste certificate (if applicable), disability certificate (if applicable), GATE/NET scorecard
7. Pay the application fee online through Net Banking/Credit Card/Debit Card/UPI
8. Review all entered information carefully before final submission
9. Submit the application form and note down the application reference number
10. Download and save the completed application form for future reference
11. Take a printout of the application form (may be required at interview stage)

Alternative Method: For some projects, applications may be accepted via email with filled application form and documents sent to the Principal Investigator's email address mentioned in the notification.

Application Fees

Fee amount varies by project. Some projects may not charge any application fee. Payment mode: Online only (Net Banking/Debit Card/Credit Card/UPI). Fee is non-refundable.

Selection Procedure

1. Initial Screening: Applications are screened based on eligibility criteria including educational qualifications, GATE/NET scores, percentage of marks, and relevant experience. Only eligible candidates are shortlisted.

1. Written Test/Skill Test (if applicable): Shortlisted candidates may be required to take a written test covering technical knowledge in their specialization area, research aptitude, and analytical skills. Duration typically 2-3 hours with objective and/or descriptive questions.

1. Technical Interview: Qualified candidates are called for personal interview conducted by a panel of faculty members and the Principal Investigator. Interview assesses technical knowledge, research aptitude, understanding of the project, problem-solving skills, and communication abilities. Duration: 30-60 minutes.

1. Presentation (for some positions): Candidates may be asked to present their previous academic/research work, project work, or thesis before the selection committee. Duration: 15-20 minutes followed by Q&A.

1. Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates must submit original documents for verification including educational certificates, caste certificate, disability certificate, GATE/NET scorecard, ID proof, and experience certificates.

1. Medical Fitness: Selected candidates may need to undergo medical examination to certify fitness for the position as per institutional norms.

1. Final Selection: Based on combined performance in all stages, final merit list is prepared and appointment letters are issued to selected candidates.

Exam Pattern (When Applicable)

Written Test/Screening Test (Project-Specific)

Negative Marking: Typically 0.25 to 0.33 marks deducted for each wrong answer in objective questions. No negative marking for descriptive sections.

Interview/Viva-Voce

Note: Exam pattern varies significantly by project and department. Some positions may have only interview-based selection without written test. GATE/NET qualified candidates may be exempted from written test in certain cases.

Syllabus (Subject-Specific - Engineering Disciplines)

Computer Science & Engineering

• Programming and Data Structures: C, C++, Java, Python, arrays, stacks, queues, linked lists, trees, graphs
• Algorithms: Searching, sorting, dynamic programming, greedy algorithms, complexity analysis
• Database Management Systems: ER model, relational model, SQL, normalization, transactions
• Operating Systems: Processes, threads, scheduling, memory management, file systems
• Computer Networks: OSI model, TCP/IP, routing algorithms, network security
• Theory of Computation: Automata, regular languages, context-free grammars, Turing machines
• Digital Logic: Boolean algebra, combinational and sequential circuits, microprocessors
• Computer Architecture: Instruction set architecture, pipelining, memory hierarchy, cache
• Software Engineering: SDLC models, testing, project management
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: Search algorithms, neural networks, deep learning basics

Mechanical Engineering

• Engineering Mechanics: Statics, dynamics, kinematics, kinetics of particles and rigid bodies
• Strength of Materials: Stress, strain, bending moment, shear force, torsion, deflection
• Theory of Machines: Mechanisms, gears, cams, governors, flywheels, vibrations
• Fluid Mechanics: Fluid properties, fluid statics, Bernoulli's equation, flow through pipes
• Thermodynamics: Laws of thermodynamics, heat transfer, refrigeration, air conditioning
• Manufacturing Processes: Casting, welding, machining, forming, metrology
• Machine Design: Design of machine elements, gears, bearings, springs, shafts
• Industrial Engineering: Production planning, inventory control, quality management
• Heat Transfer: Conduction, convection, radiation, heat exchangers
• CAD/CAM: Engineering drawing, geometric modeling, CNC programming

Electrical Engineering

• Electric Circuits: Network theorems, AC and DC circuits, resonance, transients
• Electromagnetic Fields: Electrostatics, magnetostatics, Maxwell's equations, electromagnetic waves
• Signals and Systems: Continuous and discrete signals, Fourier series, Laplace transform, Z-transform
• Electrical Machines: Transformers, DC machines, induction motors, synchronous machines
• Power Systems: Generation, transmission, distribution, load flow, fault analysis
• Control Systems: Transfer functions, block diagrams, stability analysis, PID controllers
• Power Electronics: Diodes, thyristors, converters, inverters, choppers
• Analog Electronics: Diodes, transistors, amplifiers, operational amplifiers
• Digital Electronics: Logic gates, Boolean algebra, combinational and sequential circuits
• Microprocessors: 8085/8086 architecture, assembly language programming, interfacing

Electronics & Communication Engineering

• Network Theory: Circuit analysis, network theorems, two-port networks
• Electronic Devices: Semiconductor physics, diodes, BJT, MOSFET, operational amplifiers
• Analog Circuits: Amplifiers, oscillators, filters, voltage regulators
• Digital Circuits: Logic families, combinational circuits, sequential circuits, memory devices
• Signals and Systems: Fourier analysis, Laplace transform, sampling theorem
• Control Systems: Feedback systems, stability, frequency response
• Communications: Amplitude modulation, frequency modulation, digital modulation techniques
• Electromagnetics: Maxwell's equations, transmission lines, waveguides, antennas
• Microprocessors & Microcontrollers: Architecture, programming, interfacing
• VLSI Design: CMOS circuits, logic design, fabrication technology

Civil Engineering

• Engineering Mechanics: Statics, dynamics, strength of materials
• Structural Analysis: Indeterminate structures, matrix methods, influence lines
• Concrete Technology: Properties of concrete, mix design, quality control
• Steel Structures: Design of beams, columns, connections, roof trusses
• Geotechnical Engineering: Soil mechanics, foundation engineering, earth retaining structures
• Fluid Mechanics: Hydrostatics, hydrodynamics, flow measurement, hydraulic machines
• Environmental Engineering: Water supply, wastewater treatment, air pollution, solid waste management
• Transportation Engineering: Highway planning, pavement design, traffic engineering
• Surveying: Leveling, traversing, theodolite survey, GPS, total station
• Construction Management: Project planning, CPM, PERT, cost estimation

Research Methodology (Common for All)

• Literature review and citation methods
• Research design and experimental planning
• Statistical analysis and data interpretation
• Report writing and technical communication
• Ethics in research and plagiarism awareness
• Use of research tools and software (MATLAB, Python, SPSS, etc.)

Note: Actual syllabus depends on specific project requirements and research area. Candidates should refer to detailed project description in the notification.

Salary & Allowances (Typical / Indicative)

Additional Benefits:

• Contingency Grant: ₹10,000 - ₹20,000 per annum for research-related expenses (books, stationery, consumables, travel for conferences)
• Medical Facilities: Access to IIT Madras healthcare center and medical reimbursement facilities
• Library & Infrastructure: Free access to world-class library, research facilities, laboratories, and computing resources
• Hostel Accommodation: May be provided subject to availability at subsidized rates (₹2,000-4,000 per month)
• Conference Support: Travel grant for presenting research papers at national/international conferences
• No DA/TA: Fellowship positions typically do not include Dearness Allowance or Transport Allowance as in regular government jobs

HRA rates vary based on accommodation status. Fellows availing hostel accommodation receive reduced or no HRA. Fellowship amounts are as per DST/CSIR/UGC/MHRD norms and may be revised periodically.

Note: JRF positions are upgraded to Senior Research Fellow (SRF) after 2 years based on satisfactory performance and fulfillment of criteria (typically PhD registration and progress assessment).

Junior Research Fellows at IIT Madras can progress to Senior Research Fellow (SRF) positions after completing 2 years and meeting performance criteria, which includes a fellowship increase to ₹35,000 per month. Many JRFs pursue PhD degrees during their fellowship tenure, leading to careers in academia, research institutions (ISRO, DRDO, CSIR labs), or R&D roles in top companies. Post-completion, candidates often secure faculty positions at universities, scientist roles in government organizations, or senior research positions in private sector with starting salaries ranging from ₹8-15 lakhs per annum. The research experience and publications gained during JRF tenure significantly enhance career prospects in both academic and industry domains.

Admit cards for written test/interview are typically released 7-10 days before the scheduled date. Candidates can download their admit cards from the official IIT Madras recruitment portal or the specific project webpage using their registration number and date of birth. The admit card contains important details including candidate's name, photograph, exam center address, reporting time, and instructions to be followed. Candidates must carry a printed copy of the admit card along with valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Driving License/Passport) to the examination/interview venue. In case of any discrepancy or non-receipt of admit card, candidates should immediately contact the specified helpline or email mentioned in the notification.

Results are declared separately for each stage of selection (written test, interview) on the official IIT Madras website or project-specific webpage. Shortlisted candidates after written test are notified via email and their roll numbers are published on the portal. Final selection results are typically announced within 2-3 weeks after completion of interviews. Selected candidates receive appointment letters via email and registered post containing joining instructions, required documents list, and date of joining. The merit list displays roll numbers of selected candidates (names may be withheld for privacy). Candidates can check their individual scores/marks by logging into the application portal. Waiting list candidates may be considered in case selected candidates do not join within the stipulated time.

Cutoff marks for JRF positions at IIT Madras vary significantly by project, department, and number of applicants. Typically, candidates scoring 60-70% in written tests (if conducted) are called for interviews, with SC/ST candidates requiring 50-60%. Interview cutoffs generally range from 50-60% for final selection. GATE qualified candidates often have an advantage with preference given to those with GATE scores above 500-600 (out of 1000). For direct interview-based selections, candidates with first class degrees (60%+ marks) and relevant research experience have better chances. Cutoffs fluctuate based on project complexity, funding agency requirements, and quality of applicant pool. High-demand areas like AI/ML, Data Science may have higher competition and cutoffs compared to traditional engineering domains.

Examination Centres (Indicative)

Primary Centre: Chennai (IIT Madras Campus)

Additional Centres (when applicable for multi-city recruitment):

• South: Bangalore, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada
• North: Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Jaipur
• West: Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Surat, Nagpur
• East: Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Patna, Ranchi, Guwahati
• Northeast: Guwahati, Shillong, Imphal
• Central: Bhopal, Indore, Raipur

Note: Most JRF selections involve interviews conducted only at IIT Madras Chennai campus. Written tests, if conducted, may be held at limited centers. Candidates must check the specific notification for exam center details and should select their preferred center during online application. Center allocation is subject to availability and administrative convenience.