NIT Rourkela Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026

National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela) is hiring 1 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) for a DRDO-funded research project in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. If you have an M.E./M.Tech in Mechanical Engineering or an allied branch with a valid GATE score, you can apply by sending your documents by email. The last date to apply is 8 July 2026. The fellowship pays Rs. 37,000 per month.

NIT Rourkela Junior Research Fellow (JRF) Recruitment 2026 - 1 Post

NIT Rourkela, an Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Education, has released Advertisement No. 25ME027/048 for a Junior Research Fellow to work on the DRDO-sponsored project titled "Design and Development of Alternative Air Bearings for High-Speed ACM Rotor Used in Cold Air Unit of Aircraft" (Project Code: SR-25-ME-027), running until 31 July 2028. The project focuses on designing and testing gas bearings for air cycle machines used in Light Combat Aircraft — components that help regulate cabin air in high-speed flight systems, sponsored by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), India's premier defence research body. The selected JRF can also register for a Ph.D. at NIT Rourkela subject to meeting the institute's admission criteria, making this a strong stepping stone for a research career. The project is led by Prof. Suraj Kumar Behera and Prof. Manoj Kumar Moharana of the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Who Can Apply?

• Qualification: M.E./M.Tech in Mechanical Engineering, Production Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Engineering, Energy Engineering, Cryogenic Engineering or an allied branch, with a minimum CGPA of 7.0 (or 65%) from a recognised Technical Institute/University, along with a valid GATE score.
• Alternate route: B.Tech/B.E in Mechanical Engineering with a minimum CGPA of 6.5 (or 60%) and a valid GATE score is also considered.
• Note: A valid GATE score is mandatory for the JRF position. If you do not have one, you may still be considered for appointment as Project Associate-I as per DST rules.
• Desirable skills: Knowledge of 3D modelling software and MATLAB; basic understanding of machine design, mechanics of solids, bearing design, vibration and rotordynamics.
• There is no separate desirable educational qualification beyond the essential one — your GATE score and CGPA are the key screening factors.

Age Limit

• Age limit is 28 years, with age relaxation as per Institute Rules for reserved categories.

Salary

• You will get a fellowship of Rs. 37,000 per month as Junior Research Fellow.

Selection Process

The selection will be done through the following stage:

1. Online Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed online on 10 July 2026 at 10:30 AM by the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

How to Apply

1. Read the official notification carefully to confirm you meet the essential qualification and GATE score requirement.
2. Prepare your application along with all necessary documents as mentioned in the official notification.
3. Send your application by email to Prof. Suraj Kumar Behera at beherask@nitrkl.ac.in before the last date.
4. Wait for a shortlisting confirmation before the online interview on 10 July 2026.
5. Join the online interview at the scheduled time if shortlisted by the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Important Dates

• Advertisement Date: 1 July 2026
• Last Date to Submit Application: 8 July 2026
• Online Interview Date: 10 July 2026 (10:30 AM)

• Design and simulate high-speed air bearings for aircraft ACM rotors
• Carry out lab experiments on gas bearings for air cycle machines
• Use 3D modelling software and MATLAB for design and analysis tasks
• Study machine design, mechanics of solids, bearing design and rotordynamics
• Maintain project records, test data and laboratory documentation
• Assist the Principal Investigator in project deliverables and DRDO reporting
• Prepare and present research progress reports periodically
• Support preparation of research papers for journals and conferences