IIT Delhi Project Research Scientist I 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.

Vacancy Details

This recruitment drive by IIT Delhi's Industrial Research & Development Unit (IRD) is for a specialized project position. Understanding the number of available posts is the first step for any applicant.

Total Vacancies: 01 Post

This recruitment is for a sponsored project (RP04452G) under the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The appointment is purely contractual and renewable yearly or till the project duration, which is up to 31 January. The project focuses on the "Development of multi-functional surgical instrumentation including robotic actuators, end-effectors and articulated arms for minimally invasive neurosurgery."

Eligibility

Meeting the eligibility criteria is non-negotiable for any government job application. Candidates must carefully review these requirements before applying.

Explanation of Eligibility:

• Educational Qualification: You need to hold a strong academic record. This means either a Post Graduate Degree with a First Class distinction (this includes integrated PG degrees like M.Tech + PhD if it's a single program), OR if you have a Second Class Post Graduate Degree, you must also possess a PhD. For those from Engineering, Information Technology, or Computer Science backgrounds, a First Class Graduate Degree of Four Years (like a B.Tech or BE) is sufficient. Ensure your degree is from a recognized institution and meets the 'First Class' or 'Second Class' criteria as applicable.

• Nationality: Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply for this position.

• Experience: While not strictly mandatory, having relevant experience in areas such as Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or Mechatronics will significantly strengthen your application. This suggests that candidates with practical exposure in these fields will be preferred during the shortlisting process.

Age Limit

Age limits are an important factor in government recruitments. Candidates should understand how their age is considered for this position.

The official notification states that the age limit will be "As per IIT Delhi / Government of India norms." This means there isn't a specific numerical age provided in this particular advertisement. Candidates are expected to adhere to the general age guidelines set by IIT Delhi or the Government of India for similar contractual project positions. It is advisable to check the standard norms for project staff at IIT Delhi or central government project roles if you have concerns about your age.

Age Relaxation: A relaxation of 5% is applicable for SC/ST candidates. This means if there is an upper age limit, SC/ST candidates will receive a concession as per government rules. Always verify the specific relaxation rules from the official government guidelines or IIT Delhi's HR policies for project appointments.

Application Fee

Understanding the application fee, if any, is a necessary step before proceeding with your application.

As per official notification, there is no mention of an application fee for this recruitment. Candidates are advised to proceed with the application process as outlined without expecting to pay a fee.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Project Research Scientist-I position is designed to identify candidates with the most suitable qualifications and experience for the specialized project. Here's a breakdown of the stages:

Explanation of Selection Process:

• Shortlisting: The initial step involves a thorough review of all submitted applications. Candidates will be evaluated based on their academic qualifications and the relevance of their experience to the project requirements. IIT Delhi reserves the right to set higher shortlisting criteria if a large number of applications are received. Only those candidates who meet these criteria will be considered for the next stage.

• Online Interview: Candidates who are successfully shortlisted will be invited for an online interview. This interview will assess your technical knowledge, research aptitude, problem-solving skills, and suitability for the specific project. It's an opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and enthusiasm for the role.

• Final Selection: The ultimate decision for selection will be based entirely on your performance in the online interview. Therefore, preparing well for the interview is crucial for securing this position.

The names of shortlisted candidates and details regarding the interview will be displayed on the IRD website. Candidates should regularly check the official website for updates.

Salary

Understanding the remuneration package is important for any job aspirant. The Project Research Scientist-I position at IIT Delhi offers a competitive fellowship.

The selected candidate for the Project Research Scientist-I role will receive a fellowship of Rs. 56,000/- per month. In addition to this, House Rent Allowance (HRA) will be provided at 30%. This means that on top of your monthly fellowship, you will receive an additional amount to help cover your housing expenses, making the overall package quite attractive. This fellowship is designed to support researchers working on sponsored projects and is a good compensation for the specialized skills required for this role.

Documents Required

When applying for any position, having all necessary documents ready is vital. While the notification specifies sending a filled form, it's generally good practice to have supporting documents prepared for potential submission or verification during the interview stage.

• Filled Application Form (Form No. IRD/REC-4): This is the primary document you need to download, fill completely, and submit.
• Educational Certificates: Mark sheets and degree certificates for all your qualifications, from matriculation onwards, especially those proving your essential qualification (Post Graduate Degree or Four-Year Graduate Degree).
• Experience Certificates: If you have relevant experience in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, or related fields, prepare certificates or letters of experience from previous employers.
• Identity Proof: A government-issued ID such as an Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport.
• Date of Birth Proof: Usually, your matriculation certificate serves this purpose.
• Category Certificate (if applicable): If you belong to SC/ST categories and wish to avail age relaxation, ensure you have a valid caste certificate issued by the competent authority.
• Passport-sized Photograph: Keep a recent passport-sized photograph ready, as it might be required to be affixed on the application form or for identification during the interview.
• Signature: A clear scanned image of your signature might be needed for the application form.

Always ensure that all documents are clear, legible, and match the information provided in your application form. It's a good idea to keep both original and self-attested copies ready.

How to Apply

Applying for the Project Research Scientist-I position at IIT Delhi is a two-step process involving downloading a form and then submitting it either via email or post. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Download the Application Form: First, you need to obtain Form No. IRD/REC-4. The official notification mentions that this form can be downloaded from the IIT Delhi IRD website. Locate and download this specific form.

2. Fill the Form Completely: Carefully fill out all sections of Form No. IRD/REC-4. Provide accurate and complete details regarding your educational qualifications, work experience, personal information, and any other required particulars. Ensure there are no blank fields that are mandatory.

3. Prepare Supporting Documents: While the notification primarily mentions the form, it is prudent to have soft copies of your educational certificates, experience letters, and any other relevant documents ready, especially if applying via email. For postal applications, you might need to attach self-attested copies.

4. Submit via Email: If you choose the email option, send the duly filled form (and any required attachments) to the email address provided in the official notification: [email protected]. It is crucial to mention the "Advertisement No. IITD/IRD/174/2026" clearly in the subject line of your email. This helps in proper identification of your application.

5. Submit via Post: Alternatively, you can send the duly filled form by post. Address your application to: Prof. Sunil Jha, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi – 110016. Ensure the envelope is properly addressed and dispatched well in advance of the deadline.

6. Meet the Deadline: Regardless of the submission method, ensure your application reaches the concerned authority by the last date, which is 29 July 2026, by 5:00 PM. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered.

7. Keep a Copy: Always retain a copy of your filled application form and a record of your submission (e.g., sent email, postal receipt) for your reference.

Important Instructions

To ensure a smooth application process and avoid common pitfalls, pay close attention to these important instructions:

• Read the Official Notification: Always download and read the complete official advertisement (Advertisement No. IITD/IRD/174/2026) thoroughly before starting your application.
• Verify Eligibility: Double-check all eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications and experience requirements, to ensure you meet them precisely.
• Fill Form Accurately: Complete Form No. IRD/REC-4 with accurate and truthful information. Any discrepancies can lead to disqualification.
• Mention Advertisement Number: If applying via email, ensure the Advertisement No. IITD/IRD/174/2026 is clearly stated in the subject line.
• Submit Before Deadline: Ensure your application, whether by email or post, reaches IIT Delhi by 29 July 2026, 5:00 PM. Late applications will not be entertained.
• Contractual Appointment: Understand that the appointment is purely contractual and will be renewable yearly or until the project duration, which is up to 31 January.
• No TA/DA for Interview: IIT Delhi will not pay any Travel Allowance (TA) or Dearness Allowance (DA) for attending the interview.
• Shortlisting Criteria: Be aware that IIT Delhi reserves the right to fix higher shortlisting criteria based on the number of applications received.
• Age/Marks Relaxation: SC/ST candidates are eligible for a 5% relaxation in marks and age as per norms. Ensure you have valid certificates if applying under these categories.
• Check IRD Website: Regularly visit the IRD website for updates regarding shortlisted candidates and interview dates.
• Retain Application Proof: Keep a copy of your submitted application form and any submission proof for future reference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying for government jobs can be competitive, and even small errors can lead to disqualification. Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Incomplete Application Form: Failing to fill all mandatory fields in Form No. IRD/REC-4. Ensure every section is addressed accurately.
• Missing the Deadline: Submitting the application after 29 July 2026, 5:00 PM. Always aim to submit well in advance.
• Incorrect Email Subject Line: For email applications, not including the correct Advertisement No. (IITD/IRD/174/2026) in the subject line can cause your application to be overlooked.
• Not Meeting Eligibility: Applying without thoroughly checking if you meet all essential educational qualifications and experience requirements.
• Providing False Information: Any misrepresentation of facts or submission of incorrect details in the application form can lead to immediate disqualification.
• Unclear Documents: If attaching documents, ensure they are clear, legible, and properly scanned (for email) or photocopied (for post).
• Not Checking Updates: Failing to regularly check the official IRD website for announcements regarding shortlisting and interview schedules.
• Assuming Age Limit: Not verifying the age limit as per IIT Delhi/Government of India norms, especially if you are close to the general upper age limit.
• Ignoring Instructions: Overlooking specific instructions mentioned in the notification, such as the application mode (email/post) or details about contractual appointment.

FAQs

Q1. What is the last date to apply for the IIT Delhi Project Research Scientist I Recruitment 2026?

Ans: The last date for submission of the application is 29 July 2026, by 5:00 PM.

Q2. How many vacancies are available for the Project Research Scientist I post?

Ans: There is 01 vacancy available for the Project Research Scientist - I post.

Q3. What is the essential qualification required for this position?

Ans: Candidates need a First Class Post Graduate Degree (including integrated PG degrees) OR a Second Class Post Graduate Degree with PhD OR, for Engineering/IT/CS, a First Class Graduate Degree of Four Years.

Q4. What is the salary for the Project Research Scientist I post?

Ans: The fellowship is Rs. 56,000/- per month + HRA @ 30%.

Q5. What is the selection process for this recruitment?

Ans: The selection process involves shortlisting candidates based on qualifications and experience, followed by an online interview for shortlisted candidates. Final selection is based on interview performance.

Q6. How can I apply for the IIT Delhi Project Research Scientist I position?

Ans: You can apply by downloading Form No. IRD/REC-4, filling it, and sending it either by email to [email protected] (with Advertisement No. in subject) or by post to Prof. Sunil Jha, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi – 110016.

Q7. Is there any application fee for this recruitment?

Ans: As per the official notification, there is no mention of an application fee.

Q8. What is the age limit for this post?

Ans: The age limit is as per IIT Delhi / Government of India norms, with a 5% relaxation for SC/ST candidates.

Q9. Where will the names of shortlisted candidates be displayed?

Ans: The names of shortlisted candidates will be displayed on the IRD website.

Q10. What is the duration of the project for this contractual appointment?

Ans: The appointment is purely contractual and renewable yearly or till the project duration, which is up to 31 January.

Important Links

Here are the essential links related to the IIT Delhi Project Research Scientist I Recruitment 2026: