Comprehensive Overview & Notification Background
The Central Power Research Institute (CPRI), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, has officially released Notification No. CPRI/R&D/01/2026 inviting applications from dynamic and eligible candidates for research fellowships. The vacancies are open for the posts of Junior Research Fellow (JRF) and Senior Research Fellow (SRF). This recruitment drive aims to engage talented researchers to contribute to advanced power engineering research, testing, and technology development initiatives undertaken at CPRI.
Interested candidates who possess the required educational qualifications, technical aptitude, and research inclination can submit their completed offline application forms along with necessary supporting documents on or before 27 November 2026. Candidates are advised to thoroughly read the eligibility conditions, selection procedures, and application instructions provided in this article before applying.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
The recruitment notification advertises a total of 2 vacancies distributed across key research fellow positions. Below is the breakdown of post-wise eligibility criteria and qualifications:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Educational Qualifications & Experience Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 01 | First Class Graduate Degree (BE/B.Tech) or Post Graduate Degree (ME/M.Tech) in Electrical / Electrical & Electronics / High Voltage Engineering or allied fields, preferably with a valid GATE score or NET qualification. |
| Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | 01 | ME/M.Tech or equivalent degree with minimum 2 years of proven research experience as JRF or in relevant industrial/academic research projects in power systems/engineering. |
Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
Candidate age will be calculated as per the crucial date specified in the official notification. The age criteria and applicable relaxations are structured as follows:
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Maximum age limit is generally 28 years on the closing date of application.
- Senior Research Fellow (SRF): Maximum age limit is generally 32 years on the closing date of application.
- Age Relaxation: Upper age limit is relaxable up to 5 years for SC/ST candidates, 3 years for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates, and 10 years for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) as per Government of India guidelines. Special relaxation rules apply for female applicants as per DST/CPRI Fellowship norms.
Pay Scale, Salary Structure, Allowance, & Perks
Selected research fellows will receive monthly consolidated fellowships strictly aligned with standard Central Power Research Institute and Department of Science & Technology (DST) fellowship norms:
| Post Title | Monthly Consolidated Fellowship | Additional Benefits & Allowances |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | As per CPRI/DST Norms (approx. ₹31,000 - ₹37,000 + HRA) | House Rent Allowance (HRA) if medical/hostel facility is not provided, plus research contingencies. |
| Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | As per CPRI/DST Norms (approx. ₹35,000 - ₹42,000 + HRA) | HRA as applicable, access to institute research facilities, and medical support as per institute rules. |
Selection Process
The selection mechanism for CPRI JRF and SRF recruitment involves a rigorous multi-stage screening process designed to evaluate technical depth, analytical skill, and research potential:
- Initial Screening / Shortlisting: Applications received by the due date will be screened based on academic credentials, GATE/NET qualifications, and research experience.
- Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview conducted by a duly constituted Selection Committee at CPRI premises or online mode as designated.
- Document Verification: Verification of original certificates, mark sheets, experience certificates, and category claims will be carried out before final appointment offers are issued.
Detailed Selection Scheme & Assessment Pattern
The final merit list is prepared strictly based on the performance in the personal interview, academic record, and research background:
| Assessment Stage | Focus Area | Weightage / Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Academic & GATE Score Screening | Basic Academic Credentials, Project Work, Test Scores | Shortlisting Criteria |
| Personal Interview | Subject Knowledge, Research Aptitude, Technical Communication | 100 Marks (Final Merit Weightage) |
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fill the Offline Application Form
Candidates must carefully submit their application through the offline mode. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Visit the official CPRI website at cpri.res.in and navigate to the Careers / Recruitment section.
- Download Notification No. CPRI/R&D/01/2026 along with the prescribed Application Form format.
- Take a clear printout of the application form and fill in all required fields accurately using a blue or black pen.
- Attach self-attested copies of required certificates including educational mark sheets, degree certificates, GATE/NET scorecard, experience certificates, proof of date of birth, and category certificate (if applicable).
- Affix a recent passport-sized color photograph on the designated spot of the application form and sign across it where required.
- Enclose the filled application form and documents in an envelope clearly superscribed as: "Application for the post of [JRF / SRF] under Notification No. CPRI/R&D/01/2026".
- Send the completed envelope via Registered Post / Speed Post to the official administrative address of CPRI so that it reaches on or before 27 November 2026.
Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification
Applicants must carry original documents along with self-attested copies at the time of the interview and document verification:
- Printed Application Form signed by the candidate.
- Proof of Date of Birth (SSLC / 10th Class Certificate).
- All semester mark sheets and degree certificates (BE/B.Tech/ME/M.Tech/M.Sc).
- Valid GATE Scorecard or NET Qualification Certificate.
- Experience Certificates (mandatory for SRF position).
- Caste / Community / Disability Certificate in the prescribed Central Government format (if applicable).
- Valid Photo Identity Card (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport).