Welcome to the detailed job description for the Junior Research Fellow / Project Associate I position at the prestigious National Institute of Technology Calicut (NIT Calicut). This comprehensive guide provides all necessary information regarding eligibility, application procedures, selection process, and other important details to assist prospective candidates in making informed decisions and successful applications.
Job Overview: Junior Research Fellow / Project Associate I at NIT Calicut – 2026
Position Summary
The National Institute of Technology Calicut is inviting applications for a temporary project-based position in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The role involves contributing to a high-tech research project funded by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). The successful candidate will be involved in developing MEMS-based pumped liquid cooling systems intended for space applications, particularly targeting high heat flux dissipation components.
Key Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Posts | 1 (Junior Research Fellow / Project Associate I) |
| Project Title | MEMS Based Pumped Liquid Cooling Loop for Cooling High Heat Flux Dissipating Components |
| Sponsored by | Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) |
| Location | National Institute of Technology Calicut, Mechanical Engineering Department |
| Job Type | Temporary / Project Staff |
| Initial Duration | Nine months (with possibility of extension) |
| Maximum Age Limit | 35 years |
| Application Deadline | February 10, 2026, by 5:00 PM |
| Interview Date | February 17, 2026 (Online) |
| Official Website | https://www.nitc.ac.in |
Eligibility Criteria
1. For Junior Research Fellow (JRF)
Essential Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree (B.Tech/B.E) in Mechanical Engineering, Production Engineering, Automobile Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related fields from a recognized university or institute.
- GATE qualification is mandatory or having cleared national level exams conducted by agencies like DST, DBT, DAE, DOS, DRDO, MHRD, ICAR, ICMR, IIT, IISER, etc.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Master’s degree (M.Tech/M.E) in Thermal Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related disciplines from a recognized university or institute.
2. For Project Associate I (PAI)
Essential Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree (B.Tech/B.E) in Mechanical Engineering, Production Engineering, Automobile Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent from a recognized institute/university.
- GATE qualification is **not** required for this position.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Master’s degree (M.Tech/M.E) in Thermal Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant areas.
General Eligibility Conditions for Both Positions
- Candidate must be an Indian citizen.
- Degree from a recognized university or institute as per UGC/AICTE guidelines.
- Maximum age limit: 35 years as of the application date.
- Applicants are responsible for ensuring authenticity of all submitted documents.
- Candidates currently employed in government or other sectors must produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) during the interview process.
Project Details and Objectives
Project Title
MEMS Based Pumped Liquid Cooling Loop for Cooling High Heat Flux Dissipating Components
Sponsored by
Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)
Project Objective
The project aims to develop and design Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS)-based pumped liquid cooling systems to effectively manage thermal dissipation in high heat flux spacecraft components. Such technology is crucial for space missions where efficient thermal management systems are critical for system reliability and performance.
Project Duration
The position is initially available for nine months, with the possibility of extension based on the candidate’s performance and the availability of funds. The overall project duration will be determined by ISRO and may extend until project completion.
Salary & Benefits
For Junior Research Fellow (JRF)
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Consolidated Basic Pay | INR 37,000 per month |
For Project Associate I (PAI)
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Consolidated Basic Pay | INR 31,000 per month |
Application Process
Step-by-step Application Guide
Interested candidates must submit their applications via email, adhering to the following instructions:
- Fill out the provided registration form as per the format given in the official notification.
- Prepare a comprehensive CV including educational background and professional experience.
- Scan and compile the following documents into a single PDF file:
- Filled registration form
- Academic mark sheets and degree certificates (Bachelor’s and Master’s, if applicable)
- Experience certificates, if any
- GATE score card or proof of other national examinations (for JRF)
- Proof of date of birth (10th standard certificate or equivalent)
- No Objection Certificate (if employed)
- Name the PDF file as: {YourName}_Application_for_JRF_PAI.pdf.
- Send the PDF via email to the designated addresses. The subject line must read: “Application for JRF/PAI – MEMS Based Pumped Liquid Cooling Loop Project”.
Official Application Email Addresses
| Primary Email | [Insert the actual email address] |
|---|---|
| CC Email | [Insert the CC email address] |
Submission deadline: February 10, 2026, by 5:00 PM. Applications received after this will not be considered.
Selection Process
The selection of candidates will be conducted through an online interview. The selection criteria include eligibility, academic qualifications, GATE score (for JRF), and interview performance. Shortlisting of candidates will be conducted post-application deadline, and eligible candidates will be notified via email with interview details.
Note: The interview will be held online on February 17, 2026, and candidates are expected to be prepared to discuss their academic background, research interests, and project relevance. Original documents must be presented at the time of interview for verification.
Important Dates
| Event | Date / Time |
|---|---|
| Last Date for Application Submission | February 10, 2026 (by 5:00 PM) |
| Shortlisting of Candidates | After the application deadline |
| Online Interview | February 17, 2026 |
Additional Information & Important Instructions
- Ensure all eligibility criteria are strictly met before applying.
- Only Indian nationals are eligible to apply.
- No TA/DA will be provided for attending the interview.
- Degrees must be from recognized academic institutions per UGC/AICTE norms.
- Providing false information will lead to disqualification.
- The institute holds the right to cancel or modify the recruitment process at any stage.
References & Official Links
For detailed notification and application form, please visit the following links:
We encourage eligible candidates to carefully review all requirements, prepare their documents thoroughly, and submit their applications before the deadline to be considered for this exciting opportunity in cutting-edge thermal management research under ISRO sponsorship.