IIT Indore Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for Project Associate – I (PA-I) Vacancy

Comprehensive Overview & Notification Background

The Indian Institute of Technology Indore (IIT Indore), an premier institute of national importance established by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has released an official recruitment advertisement inviting online applications for the temporary post of Project Associate – I (PA-I). Qualified and research-oriented candidates possessing a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in the relevant discipline are eligible to submit their application before the scheduled closing date of 31st August 2026.

This recruitment drive aims to fill 1 opening under a specialized research project hosted at IIT Indore. Successful candidates will be working alongside esteemed faculty members, acquiring critical technical skills, handling sophisticated laboratory instrumentation, and contributing to high-impact scientific publications. Prospective candidates are encouraged to carefully review all eligibility criteria, project details, remuneration guidelines, and submission procedures before filing their applications.

Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria

Interested candidates seeking placement as a Project Associate – I at IIT Indore must meet all essential qualifications specified by the institute. Below is the detailed breakdown of the position and qualifications required:

Note: Candidates awaiting their final M.Sc results must ensure that their degree and mark sheets are available prior to the final selection or document verification stage, strictly adhering to IIT Indore's research candidate guidelines.

Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy

The upper age limit and relaxation standards for the Project Associate – I position are strictly governed by the guidelines of the funding agency (e.g., DST/SERB/CSIR) and Indian Institute of Technology Indore rules:

• Maximum Age Limit: Upper age limit is set at 35 years as of the last date of application submission.
• SC / ST Candidates: Upper age relaxation up to 5 years as per Central Government standards.
• OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) Candidates: Upper age relaxation up to 3 years.
• Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) & Women Applicants: Relaxations apply in accordance with official government directives.

Pay Scale, Salary Structure, Allowance, & Perks

The appointed candidate for the Project Associate – I post will receive a fixed monthly fellowship/salary stipend structured according to Department of Science and Technology (DST) or funding body guidelines:

• Monthly Consolidated Emoluments: Rs. 31,000/- per month + House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per institute rules for candidates with CSIR-UGC NET / GATE or equivalent national-level test performance.
• For Non-NET/GATE Candidates: A revised consolidated monthly fellowship (e.g., Rs. 25,000/- + HRA) may be applicable according to DST policy guidelines.
• Medical & Campus Facilities: Selected candidates will have access to campus facilities, medical center amenities, library access, and professional development support during the project tenure.

Selection Process & Detailed Evaluation Method

The selection process for Project Associate – I at IIT Indore is structured to evaluate candidates on both theoretical understanding and research aptitude. The multi-stage evaluation includes:

1. Initial Application Screening: Applications received online by 31-08-2026 will be thoroughly vetted by a screening committee based on marks, qualifications, research experience, and match with the project objectives.
2. Shortlisting: Only shortlisted applicants meeting or exceeding essential benchmarks will receive an invitation for the selection interaction/interview via email.
3. Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates will appear for an online or offline technical interview before a duly constituted expert panel at IIT Indore.
4. Document Verification: Final appointment is subject to complete verification of original academic credentials, identity proofs, age certificates, and experience testimonials.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fill the Online Application Form

Eligible candidates can complete and submit their application through the official recruitment portal of IIT Indore by adhering to the following step-by-step instructions:

1. Visit the official portal of IIT Indore at www.iiti.ac.in and navigate to the "Recruitments / Project Positions" section.
2. Locate and select the detailed notification link for Project Associate – I (PA-I) Recruitment 2026.
3. Read the official notification thoroughly to ensure you meet all prerequisites.
4. Click on the online application link or download the designated application form as directed in the project notification.
5. Fill out personal information, academic qualifications from secondary education through M.Sc., research accomplishments, and contact details accurately.
6. Upload scanned copies of required documents including passport photograph, signature, M.Sc marksheets, degree certificates, and proof of age.
7. Review all entered information carefully prior to final submission. Save a copy or printout of the submitted application form for future correspondence.

Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification

Applicants must keep original copies as well as self-attested photocopies of the following essential documents ready for verification during the interview stage:

• Class 10th (Secondary) Certificate / Marksheet serving as proof of date of birth.
• Class 12th (Higher Secondary) Marksheet and Passing Certificate.
• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) and Master of Science (M.Sc) degree marksheets for all semesters and original final degree certificate.
• Valid National Level Entrance Exam Scorecard (CSIR-UGC NET, GATE, or equivalent), if applicable.
• Caste Certificate (OBC-NCL / SC / ST) or EWS Certificate issued by competent authorities (if claiming reservation).
• Valid Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or PAN Card).
• Prior research papers, project reports, or conference publications, if any.