TIFR Junior Research Fellow (JRF) Astronomy Recruitment 2026

Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai is hiring 1 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) in its Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics. If you have an MSc degree in Basic Sciences (or an equivalent Postgraduate/Professional degree) and qualify for a fellowship level exam such as CSIR-UGC NET or GATE, you can apply by email. The last date to apply is 15 August 2026. You should be below 28 years of age, and the position pays Rs. 37,000 per month plus 30% HRA.

Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026 - 1 Post

TIFR Mumbai, an autonomous institution under the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India and a Deemed to be University, has released Advertisement No. 2026/20 inviting applications for a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position in the research group of Dr. Suvodip Mukherjee. You will work on a project titled "A Data-Driven Reconstruction of the Hierarchy of Black Hole Formation and Evolution over Cosmic Time Using Gravitational Waves", funded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). The position is purely temporary for two years and co-terminus with the project — you will not have any claim to permanent absorption at TIFR once the project ends.

This is a rare opportunity for science graduates interested in gravitational-wave astrophysics and data-driven astronomy research, working under the guidance of an active researcher at one of India's top scientific institutions. TIFR is known for its strong research culture across physics, mathematics, biology and computer science, and a JRF position here gives you hands-on exposure to cutting-edge techniques in black hole population studies using real gravitational-wave data.

Founded in 1945, TIFR is one of India's premier research institutions and functions as a Deemed to be University under the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India. The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), which funds this project, is the Government of India's apex body for funding scientific research across disciplines — so this fellowship is a nationally-backed research position, not a private project grant.

Gravitational-wave astronomy is one of the fastest-growing fields in modern physics, giving scientists an entirely new way to study black holes and other extreme cosmic events. Understanding how black holes form and evolve across cosmic time — the exact focus of this project — helps researchers test theories about stellar evolution and the early universe. Working under Dr. Suvodip Mukherjee, an active researcher in this domain, gives you direct, hands-on experience analyzing real observational data from gravitational-wave detectors, alongside access to TIFR's computing infrastructure and seminar programs.

Who Can Apply?

• Qualification: MSc degree (Postgraduate Degree) in Basic Sciences, or a Graduate/Postgraduate degree in a Professional Course.
• Fellowship Eligibility: You should qualify for a fellowship level, such as CSIR-UGC NET for lectureship, GATE, or another National Level Examination conducted by Central Government departments/agencies or institutions like DST, DBT, DAE, DOS, DRDO, MHRD, ICAR, ICMR, IIT, IISc or TIFR.
• Skills: You need proficiency in analytical and numerical calculations, along with sound coding knowledge in Python and C/C++/Fortran.
• Suitable Background: Candidates from Physics, Astronomy, Applied Mathematics or a closely related Basic Science background, with a strong grounding in numerical methods and data analysis, are best suited to this project.

If you already hold a valid NET, GATE or equivalent national-level qualifying score, mention it clearly in your application along with the scorecard. TIFR follows Government of India norms for JRF eligibility, so candidates without a valid qualifying exam result may not be considered for this fellowship.

Age Limit

• You should be below 28 years of age as on the date of application.

Salary

• You will get a fellowship of Rs. 37,000 per month plus 30% House Rent Allowance (HRA) (as admissible), as per the JRF scheme of the Government of India.
• The appointment is temporary for two years and co-terminus with the project — there is no claim for permanent absorption at TIFR.

How to Apply

1. Prepare a single zip file containing your latest CV, MSc thesis report (if applicable), BSc-onwards degree certificates and mark sheets, and your qualifying examination certificate.
2. Include the names of at least two referees and a cover letter in the same zip file.
3. Email your application to Dr. Suvodip Mukherjee at suvodip@tifr.res.in.
4. Use the subject line: "Application for Junior Research Fellowship position under ANRF (Your Name)".
5. Make sure your email reaches TIFR before the closing date of 15 August 2026.
6. Double-check that your zip file is complete — incomplete applications or those missing referee details may not be considered.

TIFR will contact only shortlisted candidates for the next steps. There is no separate online portal or postal submission for this position — email is the only accepted mode of application.

Important Dates

• Advertisement Number: 2026/20
• Last Date for Receipt of Applications: 15 August 2026

• Conduct data-driven research on gravitational wave signals and black hole population studies
• Develop and apply statistical and computational models using Python and C/C++/Fortran
• Analyze large astrophysical datasets from gravitational wave observatories
• Collaborate with the research group and Principal Investigator on project milestones
• Prepare research findings and results for publication in peer-reviewed journals
• Present research progress at group meetings and conferences
• Maintain accurate records of code, data and analysis for reproducibility