1. Comprehensive Overview & Notification Background
The Indian Institute of Information Technology, Nagpur (IIIT Nagpur) has officially released a recruitment notification inviting application forms for the post of Project Associate-I (PA-I). Designed to promote high-end research, innovation, and technological development, IIIT Nagpur offers a vibrant ecosystem for scholars and researchers across various engineering and scientific domains. Interested candidates possessing higher academic qualifications, specifically an M.Sc. or M.Tech degree in a relevant specialization, are invited to submit their application forms online prior to the cutoff date of 12-10-2026.
IIIT Nagpur operates as an Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Joining as a Project Associate-I provides an exceptional opportunity to contribute to funded research projects, work alongside renowned faculty members, and gain experience in cutting-edge technology domains.
2. Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
The recruitment drive targets the temporary engagement of dynamic professionals for sponsored research programs. Candidates interested in applying must review the academic background requirements detailed below:
- Post Name: Project Associate-I (PA-I)
- Total Vacancies: 01 Post
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a Master of Science (M.Sc.) or Master of Technology (M.Tech) / Master of Engineering (M.E.) degree from a recognized University or Institute with a strong academic background in the subject area relevant to the project goals.
- Desirable Experience: Prior exposure to research, programming skills, laboratory instrumentation, theoretical modeling, or GATE/NET qualification will be given preference during the initial shortlisting stage.
3. Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
Applicants must adhere to the age criteria set by the funding agency and the host institute for research recruitment positions:
- Upper Age Limit: Generally 35 years as of the closing date of application (12-10-2026).
- Age Relaxation: Standard upper age relaxation rules apply as per Government of India directives:
- SC/ST candidates: Up to 5 years
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates: Up to 3 years
- PwD / Women candidates: As specified in government/funding body guidelines
4. Pay Scale, Salary Structure, Allowance, & Perks
The consolidated monthly fellowship/remuneration for the Project Associate-I position is governed by standard Department of Science and Technology (DST) / funding agency rules adopted by IIIT Nagpur:
- Fellowship Amount: Fixed consolidated amount as per DST guidelines depending on NET/GATE qualification status (e.g., Higher fellowship for GATE/NET qualified candidates, and standard fellowship for non-GATE/NET candidates).
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Admissible as per institutional rules if campus accommodation is not allocated.
- Medical Facilities & Leave Rules: Provided as per the institute policy governing research project staff.
5. Selection Process
The recruitment selection process for IIIT Nagpur Project Associate-I involves a structured step-by-step screening technique to select the most suitable candidate:
- Step 1: Application Screening: Applications received by 12-10-2026 will be scrutinized based on academic performance, relevance of background, and experience.
- Step 2: Shortlisting: Shortlisted candidates will be informed via email or through the official institute web portal with details of the interview schedule.
- Step 3: Personal / Online Interview: Shortlisted candidates will appear for a technical interview before a selection committee to assess subject matter expertise and research capability.
- Step 4: Document Verification: Final selection is subject to verification of original certificates, degrees, marksheets, and identity documents.
6. Detailed Exam Pattern & Selection Structure
In research associate selections, evaluation relies heavily on academic merit, research competence, and performance during the technical interview. Below is the general weightage distribution utilized during the evaluation process:
| Evaluation Parameter | Criteria Description | Focus / Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Record | M.Sc / M.Tech Percentage & University Standing | Assesses theoretical background and subject depth. |
| Competitive Exams | GATE / NET / CSIR Score (If applicable) | Validates national-level competitive proficiency. |
| Technical Interview | Domain expertise, research aptitude, & problem solving | Evaluates practical research competence and alignment with project tasks. |
7. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fill the Online Application Form
Eligible and interested candidates must submit their application form through the official online link before 12-10-2026. Follow these exact steps:
- Step 1: Visit the official IIIT Nagpur web portal at iiitn.ac.in.
- Step 2: Navigate to the 'Recruitment' or 'Careers' section on the homepage.
- Step 3: Locate the advertisement for Project Associate-I (PA-I) Recruitment 2026.
- Step 4: Download and read the official recruitment notification thoroughly.
- Step 5: Click on the provided Online Application / Portal Link and register using a valid Email ID and Mobile Number.
- Step 6: Fill in personal details, educational qualifications, project experience, and contact address accurately.
- Step 7: Upload scanned copies of required certificates, marksheets, latest resume/CV, and passport-size photograph.
- Step 8: Review the filled application form and press the 'Submit' button. Take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.
8. Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification
Candidates must carry original documents along with self-attested photocopies during physical reporting or document verification:
- 10th and 12th Class Certificates & Marksheets
- Bachelor's Degree & Master's Degree (M.Sc. / M.Tech) Certificates and Grade sheets
- Valid GATE / NET scorecard (if applicable)
- Category / Caste Certificate (if seeking age relaxation)
- Experience Certificates or Research Publication Proofs (if any)
- Government-issued Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport)
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)