IIA Project Associate-II Recruitment 2026

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is hiring 1 Project Associate-II for its Science Communication, Public Outreach and Education (SCOPE) Section in Bengaluru. If you hold a Master's/BS-MS degree in Physics or Mathematics, or a Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Technology with 60% marks, along with 2 years of relevant experience, you can apply online. The last date to apply is 21 August 2026 (5:30 PM). The pay is Rs. 28,000 to Rs. 35,000 per month plus HRA, and the upper age limit is 35 years.

Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) Project Associate-II Recruitment 2026 - 1 Post

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, has released Advertisement No. IIA/04/2026-27 dated 21 July 2026 to fill one Project Associate-II post. IIA is one of India's leading research institutes, carrying out research in astronomy, astrophysics, and allied areas of science and technology. Its main campus is at Koramangala, Bengaluru, with a CREST campus at Hosakote and field stations at Kavalur and Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, Gauribidanur in Karnataka, and Leh/Hanle in Ladakh.

This particular opening is in the SCOPE Section — the wing that connects IIA's research with students, teachers, and the public through outreach events, sky-watching sessions, and educational resources. This is a contract position, initially for one year and extendable annually based on your performance and project requirements, or co-terminus with the project — whichever comes first. While your initial posting is at IIA, Bengaluru, you may be transferred anywhere in India as per the Institute's needs. If you enjoy explaining astronomy to the public rather than only working behind a telescope, this role is worth a look.

Who Can Apply?

• Qualification: You need a Master's or BS-MS degree in Physics or Mathematics, OR a Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Technology with 60% marks (or an equivalent grade) from a UGC-recognised or Central/State government university.
• Experience: After completing your degree, you must have 2 years of experience in scientific activities, research and development, or outreach/education work at an academic institution or a science and technology organisation.
• Essential Skills: Basic knowledge of astronomy concepts, telescope handling, and familiarity with the night sky. You also need good English communication skills, basic computer skills (graphic design software, Google services), and basic video editing/graphics design ability.
• Desirable Skills: Amateur astronomy experience, familiarity with astronomy outreach software, experience creating outreach models or activities, report writing, and software skills like Python, JavaScript, or HTML.
• Nationality: Only Indian nationals can apply for this post.
• Reference Date: Your age, qualifications, and experience will be assessed as on the closing date for receiving applications, i.e. 21 August 2026.

Age Limit

• You should not be older than 35 years as on the last date for receiving applications (21 August 2026).
• Age Relaxation: SC, ST, and OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates, and persons with disabilities, get age relaxation as per Government of India rules.

Salary

• You will get Rs. 35,000 per month plus applicable HRA if you have qualified through CSIR-UGC NET (including lectureship/Assistant Professorship eligibility), GATE, or a similar national-level exam conducted by a Central Government department or agency.
• If you do not meet the above criteria, you will get Rs. 28,000 per month plus applicable HRA.
• No TA/DA will be reimbursed for attending the interview or skill test.

Selection Process

IIA will select the Project Associate-II through the following stages:

1. Screening: Your application will be screened based on your qualifications and experience. IIA may also conduct a written test to shortlist candidates if a large number of applications are received.
2. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview.

The Institute reserves the right to call only those candidates with qualifications and experience higher than the minimum prescribed, if the number of applicants is very high. Note: Misrepresentation or falsification of facts at any stage, or canvassing in any form, will lead to cancellation of your candidature without notice.

How to Apply

1. Go to the IIA job portal at iiap.res.in/iia_jobs.
2. Register a new account or log in if you already have one.
3. Fill in the online application form for Project Associate-II (Advt. No. IIA/04/2026-27).
4. Upload scanned copies of your Curriculum Vitae (CV), Date of Birth proof, educational certificates and mark sheets from SSLC onwards, experience certificates, community certificate, and proof of your essential experience and skills.
5. Review your details and submit your application before 21 August 2026, 5:30 PM.

Note: IIA reserves the right to increase, decrease, or cancel this recruitment process at any time, without assigning a reason.

Important Dates

• Notification Date: 21 July 2026
• Application Start Date: 23 July 2026
• Last Date to Apply Online: 21 August 2026 (5:30 PM)

• Design, organize, and document astronomy outreach events at IIA
• Support outreach programs at the Bengaluru campus and IIA's field stations
• Prepare institutional reports for public engagement and outreach activities
• Coordinate the day-to-day management and logistics of SCOPE Section activities
• Build astronomy educational kits, activities, and digital interfaces for the public
• Create graphics, videos, and other content to communicate astronomy concepts
• Assist with telescope demonstrations and night-sky observation sessions