CSIR NAL Recruitment 2026: JRF & SRF Posts

Introduction

The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research - National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) has announced recruitment for Junior Research Fellow (JRF) and Senior Research Fellow (SRF) positions. This is an opportunity for eligible candidates to join a premier research laboratory under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. The recruitment drive aims to fill two vacancies, one for JRF and one for SRF, for specific projects. Interested candidates must submit their applications offline by the deadline. The official notification provides detailed information regarding eligibility criteria, age limits, salary, and the application procedure. It is essential for all applicants to carefully read the official notification before applying to ensure they meet all the requirements and understand the application process thoroughly. The last date to submit applications is October 18, 2026.

Recruitment Overview

Important Dates

Vacancy Details

Educational Qualifications and Eligibility

Candidates must meet the specific educational and experience criteria for each post:

• Junior Research Fellow (JRF):
  • First class M.Sc. in Physics, Material Science, or Chemistry.
  • Must possess a CSIR UGC NET qualification (Lectureship qualification is also eligible) or a valid GATE score/qualification.
• Senior Research Fellow (SRF):
  • First class M.Sc. in Physics, Material Science, or Electronics with a minimum of 2 years of research experience.
  • Must have at least one publication in a SCI Journal.
  • Must have completed at least two years of post-M.Sc. research experience.
  • OR M.Tech in Nanotechnology or Electronics with at least 60% marks.

Preference will be given to NET/GATE qualified candidates for the SRF position.

Age Limit and Relaxation

The age limits are specified as of the application closing date:

• Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Upper age limit is 28 years.
• Senior Research Fellow (SRF): Upper age limit is 32 years.

Age relaxation is provided as per government norms:

• 5 years for SC/ST candidates.
• 3 years for OBC candidates.
• Relaxation for PWD candidates is applicable as per CSIR/Gol guidelines.

Salary and Emoluments

Selected candidates will receive monthly emoluments as follows:

• Junior Research Fellow (JRF): ₹37,000 /- per month + HRA as applicable.
• Senior Research Fellow (SRF): ₹42,000 /- per month + HRA as applicable.

Selection Process

The selection process involves shortlisting of applications based on the information provided. Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview. The date and time of the interview will be communicated to the candidates via email or through the NAL website. No travel allowance will be provided for attending the interview.

Application Procedure

Interested and eligible candidates must apply offline. The application process involves the following steps:

1. Download the application form from the CSIR-NAL website (www.nal.res.in).
2. Fill out the application form completely and accurately in your own handwriting or type it neatly.
3. Attach a recent passport-size photograph to the application form.
4. Enclose copies of all required documents, including matriculation, 12th standard, degree certificates, post-graduation degree certificates and marks sheets (all semesters/years), and experience certificates.
5. Send the duly filled application form along with all supporting documents in a sealed cover.
6. Superscribe the sealed cover with "Application for the post of JUNIOR RESEARCH FELLOW / SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOW" and the Advertisement No. 14/2026.
7. The application must be addressed to: The Sr. Controller of Administration, National Aerospace Laboratories, P.B.No.1779, HAL Airport Road, Kodihalli, Bengaluru – 560017 (Karnataka).
8. Ensure that the application reaches the specified address on or before October 18, 2026.

Required Documents for Application

Candidates are required to enclose the following documents with their application form:

• SSLC/10th Std Certificate (Proof of Date of Birth)
• 12th Std Certificate
• Degree Certificate
• Post-Graduation Degree certificate and Marks sheets for all semesters/years
• Community or Caste Certificate (if applicable)
• Experience Certificate(s)
• Recent passport size photograph
• Any other relevant certificates

Important Instructions and Common Mistakes

Candidates should pay close attention to the following instructions to avoid common errors:

• Accuracy of Information: Furnishing incorrect or false information in the application form will lead to disqualification. Ensure all details are accurate and complete.
• Document Submission: Make sure to attach copies of all mandatory documents as specified in the notification. Incomplete applications may be rejected.
• Superscription: Clearly write "Application for the post of JUNIOR RESEARCH FELLOW / SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOW" and the Advertisement No. 14/2026 on the sealed cover.
• Timely Submission: Applications must reach the designated address by the closing date of October 18, 2026. Late applications will not be considered.
• Nationality: Only Indian Nationals and Overseas Citizens of India are eligible to apply.
• Temporary Engagement: The engagement is for a temporary duration of two years, with a potential upgradation to SRF from the third year based on performance.
• Minimum Work Duration: After appointment, candidates are advised to work for the project for a minimum of one year.
• Notice Period: If a candidate wishes to leave the job, a minimum of one month's prior notice is required.

Official Notification and Application Links

For detailed information and to download the application form, please refer to the official sources:

• Official Notification PDF: Download Notification
• Official Website: Visit CSIR-NAL Website for more details.

Relevant FAQs

Q1: What is the last date to apply for the CSIR NAL JRF/SRF recruitment?
A1: The last date to submit applications is October 18, 2026.

Q2: Is there any application fee for this recruitment?
A2: The supplied notification does not specify any application fees.

Q3: How will candidates be informed about the interview?
A3: Shortlisted candidates will be informed about the interview date and time via email or through the NAL website.

Q4: What is the duration of the fellowship/project?
A4: The engagement is for a temporary duration of two years, with a possibility of upgradation to SRF from the third year based on performance.