ICAR CIRCOT Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online

Important Dates

Keeping track of key dates is crucial for any recruitment process. Make sure to mark these dates in your calendar to avoid missing any deadlines for the ICAR-CIRCOT Junior Research Fellow recruitment.

Vacancy Details

The ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology (CIRCOT), Mumbai, is recruiting for a specific project-based position. Understanding the vacancy details helps candidates know the scope of this opportunity.

Total Vacancies: 01

This recruitment is for a single position under the project “Development of Portable Instrument to Measure Cotton Quality at Farm Gate and Textile Industries.” It is a project-based, temporary, and contractual engagement, meaning the appointment will last for the duration of the project, which is expected to be 3 years or until its completion, likely by June 2028.

Eligibility

Meeting the eligibility criteria is the first and most important step in applying for any government job. Candidates must carefully review the requirements to ensure they qualify for the Junior Research Fellow position at ICAR-CIRCOT.

Educational Qualification Explained: To be eligible for this JRF role, you need a strong academic background. You should either have a Master's degree (M.E/M.Tech) in any engineering discipline, provided your Bachelor's degree was a 4 or 5-year program. Alternatively, if you hold a Bachelor's degree (B.E/B.Tech) in specific fields like Textile Technology, Electronics, Electrical, Instrumentation, Computer Science, Agricultural Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering, you must also have a valid GATE qualification. This ensures that candidates possess the foundational knowledge required for the research project.

Nationality: The official notification does not explicitly state nationality requirements, but typically, Indian citizens are eligible for such government positions. Candidates should refer to the full official document for any specific clauses.

Final Year Candidates: The notification does not specify if final year students are eligible. Generally, candidates are expected to have completed their degrees by the application deadline. It is advisable to have all your degree certificates ready.

Desirable Qualification Explained: While not strictly mandatory, having certain skills will significantly enhance your application. The institute is looking for candidates with practical knowledge in designing and developing instruments, testing electronic circuit boards, software development, and statistical analysis. Experience in writing research papers or reports is also highly valued, as it indicates your ability to document and disseminate research findings effectively. These skills are directly relevant to the project's goal of developing a portable cotton quality measurement instrument.

Age Limit

Understanding the age criteria and available relaxations is important for all applicants. The ICAR-CIRCOT has set specific age limits for the Junior Research Fellow position.

The maximum age for male candidates is 35 years, while for female candidates, it is 40 years. These age limits are calculated as of the last date for application submission, which is 31 July 2026. The government of India rules provide age relaxation for reserved categories. Candidates belonging to Other Backward Classes (OBC) will receive a 3-year relaxation, Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates will get a 5-year relaxation, and Persons with Disabilities (PH) will be eligible for a 10-year relaxation. It is essential for all applicants to calculate their age accurately as of the specified cutoff date and ensure they fall within the permissible limits, including any applicable relaxations.

Application Fee

The official notification for the ICAR-CIRCOT Junior Research Fellow recruitment does not specify any application fee. Candidates should proceed with the application process as outlined without expecting to pay a fee, unless otherwise communicated directly by the institute.

Selection Process

The selection for the Junior Research Fellow position at ICAR-CIRCOT involves a clear, two-stage process designed to identify the most suitable candidates for the research project. Understanding each stage will help you prepare effectively.

Stage 1: Scrutiny of Applications
After you submit your application via email, the institute will carefully review all received applications. This scrutiny process checks whether candidates meet the essential eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications, age limits, and the completeness of the submitted documents. Only candidates whose applications are found to be in order and who meet the basic requirements will be considered for the next stage.

Stage 2: Walk-in Interview (Hybrid Mode)
Candidates shortlisted after the application scrutiny will be invited for a Walk-in Interview. This interview is scheduled for 03 August 2026. Importantly, the interview will be conducted in a "Hybrid Mode," which means it might offer options for both in-person and online participation. During the interview, candidates must present all their original documents for verification. The interview panel will assess your knowledge, skills, experience, and suitability for the project. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and enthusiasm for the research work.

Salary

The Junior Research Fellow position at ICAR-CIRCOT offers an attractive fellowship, which is a key component of the overall compensation. Understanding the structure of this fellowship is important for prospective candidates.

For the first two years of the project, the selected Junior Research Fellow will receive a fellowship of Rs. 37,000 per month. In the third year, this fellowship will increase to Rs. 42,000 per month. In addition to the fellowship amount, candidates will also be eligible for House Rent Allowance (HRA). HRA is provided to help cover accommodation costs and is typically calculated as a percentage of the basic fellowship, as per government rules. This structure ensures a competitive remuneration package for the duration of the project, supporting researchers in their work.

Documents Required

When applying for the Junior Research Fellow position at ICAR-CIRCOT, it is essential to have all the necessary documents prepared. These documents are crucial for both the application submission and the subsequent interview process. Ensure you have both original and self-attested copies ready.

• Detailed Bio-data: Prepare your bio-data strictly as per Annexure-I provided in the official notification. This format is mandatory.
• Recent Photograph: A passport-sized recent photograph is required for your application.
• Self-Attested Copies of Certificates:
  • Educational Qualification Certificates (from 10th standard onwards, including mark sheets and degree certificates for B.E/B.Tech, M.E/M.Tech, and GATE score card if applicable).
  • Identity Proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License).
  • Date of Birth Proof (usually 10th standard mark sheet or birth certificate).
  • Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD, if applicable, issued by the competent authority).
  • Experience Certificates (if any, relevant to the desirable qualifications).
  • Any other relevant documents mentioned in Annexure-I or the official notification.

Remember to carry all original documents along with their self-attested photocopies when you appear for the Walk-in Interview. Failure to produce original documents for verification may lead to disqualification.

How to Apply

The application process for the ICAR-CIRCOT Junior Research Fellow position is a hybrid one, involving both email submission and a Walk-in Interview. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your application is complete and submitted correctly:

1. Prepare Your Bio-data: First, download and meticulously fill out the detailed bio-data format as provided in Annexure-I of the official notification. Do not deviate from this format.
2. Attach Photograph and Certificates: Affix a recent passport-sized photograph to your bio-data. Gather all your essential certificates (educational, age proof, category, GATE score, etc.) and make self-attested photocopies of each.
3. Compile into a Single PDF: Arrange your filled bio-data, recent photograph, and all self-attested copies of certificates into a single PDF file. Ensure the PDF is clear and readable.
4. Email Your Application: Send this single PDF file via email to the address `[email protected]`. Make sure to send it on or before the last date, which is 31 July 2026, by 5:30 PM. It is advisable to send it well in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues.
5. Attend the Walk-in Interview: If your application is shortlisted, you must appear for the Walk-in Interview on 03 August 2026. The interview will be held at ICAR-CIRCOT, Mumbai. Remember to bring all your original documents along with their self-attested copies for verification. Be prepared to report by 09:30 AM, as interviews are scheduled to begin from 11:00 AM onwards.

Always double-check the email address and ensure your PDF is correctly attached before sending. Keep a copy of the sent email for your records.

Important Instructions

To ensure a smooth application and interview process for the ICAR-CIRCOT Junior Research Fellow recruitment, candidates should pay close attention to these important instructions:

• Always refer to and read the complete official notification thoroughly before applying to understand all terms and conditions.
• Verify that you meet all the essential eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications and age limits, before submitting your application.
• Ensure all documents, especially your bio-data, are prepared strictly as per Annexure-I and that all copies are self-attested.
• Submit your application via email as a single PDF file to the specified email address before the deadline of 31 July 2026 (5:30 PM). Late applications will not be considered.
• Keep a copy of your submitted application (the PDF file and the sent email) for your personal records.
• Be prepared to join the project immediately if selected, as the position requires prompt engagement.
• Remember that the position is purely temporary and contractual, co-terminus with the project, which is likely to conclude by June 2028.
• No Travel Allowance (TA) or Dearness Allowance (DA) will be paid for attending the interview, so plan your travel accordingly.
• Any attempt to influence the selection process through canvassing will lead to immediate disqualification.
• The decision of the Director, ICAR-CIRCOT, will be final in all matters related to this recruitment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying for government jobs can be a competitive process, and even small errors can lead to disqualification. Be mindful of these common mistakes when applying for the ICAR-CIRCOT Junior Research Fellow position:

• Incomplete Application: Failing to fill out all required sections of the bio-data (Annexure-I) or missing crucial information can render your application invalid.
• Incorrect Document Format: Not compiling all documents into a single PDF file as instructed, or sending multiple attachments, can cause your application to be overlooked during scrutiny.
• Missing the Deadline: Submitting your email application after 5:30 PM on 31 July 2026 will result in automatic rejection. Always aim to submit well in advance.
• Unread Instructions: Not thoroughly reading the official notification can lead to misunderstandings about eligibility, application steps, or interview requirements.
• Submitting Unattested Copies: Sending photocopies of certificates without self-attestation can lead to issues during the scrutiny or verification process.
• Not Carrying Original Documents for Interview: Appearing for the Walk-in Interview without all original certificates for verification is a critical error and will lead to disqualification.
• Incorrect Email Address: Sending your application to the wrong email address means it will never reach the institute. Double-check the address before sending.
• Lack of Preparation for Interview: Not being ready to discuss your qualifications, project relevance, and desirable skills during the interview can hinder your chances.

FAQs

Q1. What is the last date to apply for the ICAR-CIRCOT Junior Research Fellow recruitment 2026?

Ans: The last date to submit your application via email is 31 July 2026, by 5:30 PM.

Q2. How many vacancies are available for the Junior Research Fellow post?

Ans: There is 01 vacancy available for the Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position.

Q3. What is the essential qualification required for this JRF post?

Ans: Candidates need an M.E/M.Tech in any discipline (with 4/5 years Bachelor’s degree) OR a B.E/B.Tech in specific engineering fields (Textile Technology, Electronics, Electrical, Instrumentation, Computer Science, Agricultural Engg., Mechanical Engg.) with a GATE qualification.

Q4. What is the age limit for applying to this recruitment?

Ans: The maximum age limit is 35 years for male candidates and 40 years for female candidates, with relaxations for OBC (3 years), SC/ST (5 years), and PH (10 years).

Q5. What is the salary offered for the Junior Research Fellow position?

Ans: The fellowship is Rs. 37,000 + HRA for the 1st & 2nd year, and Rs. 42,000 + HRA for the 3rd year.

Q6. What is the selection process for the ICAR-CIRCOT JRF recruitment?

Ans: The selection process involves scrutiny of applications followed by a Walk-in Interview conducted in a Hybrid Mode.

Q7. When is the Walk-in Interview scheduled?

Ans: The Walk-in Interview is scheduled for 03 August 2026, with reporting time at 09:30 AM.

Q8. Is there any application fee for this recruitment?

Ans: As per the official notification, no application fee is mentioned for this recruitment.

Q9. Is the Junior Research Fellow position permanent?

Ans: No, the position is purely temporary and contractual, co-terminus with the project, which is likely to be completed by June 2028.

Q10. What is the project title for which the JRF is being recruited?

Ans: The project title is “Development of Portable Instrument to Measure Cotton Quality at Farm Gate and Textile Industries.”

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