Indian Institute of Technology Tirupati (IIT Tirupati) has announced an exciting opportunity for highly qualified and motivated individuals to join their research team as a Research Associate III (RA III). This position is part of their ongoing research initiatives in advanced quantum optics, atomic physics, and related interdisciplinary fields. The selected candidate will play a crucial role in experimental and theoretical research, contributing to cutting-edge developments in laser spectroscopy, quantum memories, and quantum information processing. Interested candidates are encouraged to review all eligibility criteria and application instructions carefully to ensure successful submission. The last date for applications is March 6, 2026. This comprehensive job description aims to provide all necessary details about this prestigious position, including responsibilities, eligibility, benefits, and application process.
Research Associate III (RA III) at IIT Tirupati: Comprehensive Job Profile
Position Overview
The Research Associate III (RA III) at IIT Tirupati is a specialized research position aimed at individuals with a strong background in Physics, particularly in atomic, molecular, and optical physics, quantum optics, laser spectroscopy, and related fields. The role is designed to support and advance interdisciplinary research projects focused on developing quantum memory nodes, quantum repeaters, and other quantum information processing devices using cold atom techniques.
Number of Vacancies & Official Contact Details
| Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Vacancies | 1 |
| Advertisement No. | Advt/ IITTC/SRC/25-26/37 |
| Official Website | https://iittp.ac.in |
| Last Date to Apply | 06 March 2026 |
| Notification PDF | Download Advertisement |
Eligibility Criteria
Essential Educational Qualifications
The candidate must have a Ph.D. in Physics or an equivalent degree with the following academic performance:
- Minimum of 75% marks or 7.5 CGPA during Ph.D. coursework.
- At least 60% marks or 6.0 CGPA in M.Sc./B.E./B.Tech./M.E./M.Tech. coursework.
Relaxation in CGPA/Percentage:
- OBC/EWS candidates: 7.0 CGPA or 70%
- SC/ST/PWD candidates: 6.5 CGPA or 65%
Desired Experience & Skills
The ideal candidate should possess:
- Sound knowledge of topics such as Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Electromagnetic Theory, Atomic and Laser Spectroscopy.
- Experience with Finite Element Modeling & Simulation using tools like COMSOL/ANSYS.
- Knowledge of electronic design software like ORCAD/EAGLE, and hands-on experience with experimental setups in AMOP physics.
- Proficiency in programming languages and simulation tools such as Python, MATLAB, Mathematica, VHDL, Verilog, LabVIEW, and SolidWorks.
- Experience in experimental quantum optics, laser cooling, atomic trapping, or ion trapping techniques.
- Knowledge of modeling and simulation of light-matter interactions in atomic vapor or cold atom systems.
- Having at least one publication in SCI-indexed or peer-reviewed journals. Multiple publications are preferable.
- Willingness to work collaboratively and adapt to interdisciplinary research environments.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills demonstrated through publications or presentations in conferences.
- Supervision experience of graduate or postgraduate students is an added advantage.
- Candidates who have submitted or defended their Ph.D. thesis and are awaiting the degree can apply.
Special Considerations for Exceptional Candidates
Highly capable candidates with strong theoretical backgrounds in light-matter interaction, quantum memories, or related areas, and a limited publication record may still be considered if they provide:
- An additional letter of recommendation from their thesis supervisor.
- Evidence of their research potential and intellectual contributions.
Age Limit & Salary Structure
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Age Limit | 36 years |
| Salary | INR 67,000/- + HRA (as applicable, 9% for Tirupati) |
Selection Process
The selection of candidates will involve multiple stages to ensure the best fit for the research project:
Stages Include:
- Initial shortlisting based on CV, Statement of Purpose (SOP), motivation letter, research proposal, and Letters of Recommendation (LORs).
- Online interview of shortlisted candidates.
- Note: No TA/DA will be provided; candidates must be prepared to attend interviews in person or via virtual platforms.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 20 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Application | 06 March 2026 |
| Interview/Selection Notification | To be notified via email to shortlisted candidates |
Application Procedure
Interested candidates must prepare their application documents as a single PDF file, including all necessary supporting materials, and send them via email before the deadline.
Steps to Apply:
- Gather all relevant documents such as degrees, transcripts, CV, SOP, research proposal, and recommendation letters.
- Create a single PDF compilation of these documents.
- Send the PDF via email to [email protected].
- Copy (CC) your application to [email protected].
- In the email subject line, clearly mention: “Application for RAIII position under the NQM project at IIT Tirupati.”
Incomplete applications or applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Research Responsibilities & Work Environment
Core Responsibilities
The selected Research Associate will be involved in a diverse range of activities critical to the success of the research project, including:
- Design, setup, and calibration of laser spectroscopy experiments, particularly involving laser cooling of rubidium (Rb) atoms.
- Development and testing of indigenous instruments related to lasers, optics, and electronics.
- Data recording, analysis, and documentation in peer-reviewed formats.
- Modeling of light-matter interactions in atomic systems using open-source and proprietary software.
- Simulation and optimization of experimental parameters for quantum memory and quantum repeater protocols.
- Fabrication and testing of low-noise electronics, FPGA-based systems, and ultra-high vacuum setups.
- Supervising and mentoring research students and interns involved in related experiments.
- Participate in technical meetings, workshops, conferences, and other academic gatherings.
Work Environment & Collaboration
This position requires on-campus physical presence; remote work is not feasible due to the laboratory’s experimental nature. The candidate will work in a highly collaborative interdisciplinary team, contributing to the development of advanced quantum devices and systems. The work involves multiple specialized areas including laser physics, electronics, software development, and quantum optics.
Opportunities & Additional Responsibilities
- Engagement with cutting-edge research in quantum information processing, specifically quantum memories using cold atomic systems.
- Involvement in hardware development, including laser systems, vacuum systems, and electronic control modules.
- Participation in developing simulation tools and modeling physics problems relevant to quantum repeater networks.
- Possibility of contributing to patents, research publications, and national/international research collaborations.
Required Supporting Documents & Additional Notes
- Self-attested copies of academic certificates and transcripts from undergraduate to postgraduate levels.
- Current Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) and motivation letter tailored to the project.
- A brief research proposal focusing on cold atom quantum memory.
- At least two recommendation letters, one of which must be from your thesis supervisor.
- For exceptional candidates, three recommendation letters are required, including one from the thesis supervisor.
Additional Information & Contact
Applicants are advised to regularly check their email for updates regarding shortlisting and interview schedules. For further queries, email [email protected].
Note: IIT Tirupati reserves the right to withdraw or modify the position with a one-month notice if the research or performance is not satisfactory.
Download Official Notification & Additional Resources
For detailed information, download the official notification PDF here: IIT Tirupati Research Associate III Notification PDF
Visit the official website for the latest updates and further details.