Comprehensive Overview & Notification Background
The Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur), an Institute of Eminence, has officially announced the opening for the position of Senior Research Fellow (SRF) under its ongoing sponsored research project for 2026. This recruitment drive aims to engage highly motivated and competent candidates equipped with engineering backgrounds to contribute to cutting-edge technology developments in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering (ETC), or Electrical Engineering (EE).
Interested and eligible applicants are invited to submit their applications online before the final deadline of 19 August 2026. Candidates who meet the educational criteria and experience conditions are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute technical glitches on the application portal.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
The notification details a single vacancy for the post of Senior Research Fellow. Below is the detailed breakdown of post qualifications and subject field requirements:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Educational Qualifications & Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | 01 | B.Tech / B.E. / M.E. / M.Tech in ECE / ETC / EE with a valid GATE score, plus a minimum of 2 years of proven research experience in the relevant domain. |
Key academic requirements include:
- Degree Qualification: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electronics & Communication Engineering (ECE), Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering (ETC), or Electrical Engineering (EE) from a recognized University or Institute.
- Mandatory Entrance Score: A valid Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) scorecard.
- Experience: Minimum 2 years of research or industrial experience relevant to the ongoing research mandate.
Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
The maximum age limit for applying to the Senior Research Fellow position is generally aligned with national research fellow guidelines and institute norms:
- Maximum Age Limit: 35 Years (as on the closing date of application).
- Age Relaxation: Category-based relaxation for SC, ST, OBC, PwD, and female candidates will be applied as per the regulations established by the Government of India and funding agency guidelines.
Pay Scale, Salary Structure, Allowance, & Perks
Selected candidates for the Senior Research Fellow position will receive a consolidated monthly fellowship as outlined below:
- Consolidated Monthly Pay: Up to Rs. 42,000/- per month.
- Additional Benefits: HRA or campus accommodation may be provided subject to availability and project fund allocations according to institutional norms.
- Duration: The engagement is purely temporary and contractual, co-terminus with the duration of the sponsored project or subject to satisfactory annual performance evaluations.
Selection Process
The selection mechanism for the Senior Research Fellow position at IIT Kharagpur follows a systematic process designed to evaluate candidates on academic excellence and technical competence:
- Screening of Applications: Shortlisting candidates based on academic achievements, GATE score, research publications, and relevant work experience.
- Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online or offline technical interview conducted by a duly constituted selection committee.
- Document Verification: Original certificates, GATE scorecard, identity proof, and experience credentials will be verified prior to the formal offer of appointment.
Detailed Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
There is no standard written examination mentioned for this fellowship position. Selection is fundamentally dependent on curriculum vitae evaluation followed by a comprehensive technical interview assessing basic concepts, practical domain knowledge, and past research project execution ability.
| Evaluation Stage | Assessment Focus | Final Weightage Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Shortlisting Stage | GATE Score, Academic Marks & Experience | Qualifying Criteria for Interview |
| Interview Stage | Domain Knowledge, Research Aptitude & Problem Solving | 100% Selection Merit |
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fill the Online Application Form
Eligible candidates can complete their application online by following the steps provided below:
- Visit the official portal of IIT Kharagpur at www.iitkgp.ac.in and navigate to the 'Jobs / Research Positions' section.
- Locate the advertisement for Senior Research Fellow (SRF) Recruitment 2026.
- Register using a valid email address and active mobile number.
- Fill out the personal details, academic background, GATE score details, and past research experience accurately.
- Upload clear scanned copies of required documents including passport photo, signature, GATE scorecard, mark sheets, and experience certificates.
- Review the filled application form carefully before final submission.
- Submit the form online on or before 19 August 2026 and take a printed copy for future reference.
Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification
Applicants must ensure all details entered match the original support documents. Candidates shortlisted for the interview round must keep the following documents ready:
- 10th and 12th Mark Sheets and Passing Certificates.
- Graduation and Post-Graduation Degree Certificates & Transcripts.
- Valid GATE Scorecard copy.
- Proof of 2 Years Research Experience (Appointment letters, work experience certificates, or project completion letters).
- Government-issued ID Proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Passport).
- Category/Caste Certificate (if claiming age relaxation or quota benefits).