IISER Tirupati invites applications for 1 Research Associate-1 vacancy. Eligibility: Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences. Last Date: Feb 16, 2026. Apply via email.
The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Tirupati, a premier autonomous Institution under the Ministry of Education, Govt. of India, has announced a recruitment drive for the position of Research Associate-1. This is an excellent opportunity for Ph.D. degree holders in Chemical Sciences to contribute to high-quality research on a contract basis. Interested and eligible candidates are invited to apply via email before the deadline on 16th February 2026.
Quick Overview
| Organization | Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Tirupati |
|---|---|
| Post Name | Research Associate-1 |
| Total Vacancies | 01 |
| Application Mode | |
| Last Date to Apply | 16th February 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Fellowship | Rs. 58,000 – Rs. 42,000 + 9% HRA |
| Official Website | iisertirupati.ac.in (not explicitly in PDF, but inferred) |
| Advertisement No. | 10/2026 |
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Fellowship (per month) |
|---|---|---|
| Research Associate-1 | 01 | Rs. 58,000 + 9% HRA (with Ph.D. Certificate) Rs. 42,000 + 9% HRA (Ph.D. awaited) |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Ph.D. degree in any area of Chemical Sciences.
- Candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting the award of a Ph.D. degree may also apply.
- Candidates should provide evidence of having conducted high-quality research during or after their Ph.D. program.
- Desirable qualities: Experience in Synthetic Organic Chemistry.
Age Limit
| Category | Maximum Age (as of 16th February 2026) |
|---|---|
| General/UR | 35 Years |
| Meritorious Cases | Exceptions can be made |
Experience
Candidates are expected to provide evidence of having conducted high-quality research during or after their Ph.D. program. Experience in Synthetic Organic Chemistry is desirable.
Fellowship & Benefits
The selected Research Associate-1 will receive a monthly fellowship as follows:
- With Ph.D. Certificate: Rs. 58,000/- p.m. + 9% HRA
- Ph.D. Degree Awaited (thesis submitted): Rs. 42,000/- p.m. + 9% HRA (A letter from a competent authority stating thesis submission and pending viva/defense is required).
A nominal research grant will also be available under this program. The position is temporary for one year and renewable subject to satisfactory performance.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date for Application | 16th February 2026 by 5:00 PM |
| Intimation to Shortlisted Candidates | Will be informed by email |
Selection Process
The selection process for the Research Associate-1 position at IISER Tirupati will involve the following stages:
- Application Submission: Candidates must submit their application in the prescribed format via email before the last date. Resumes/CVs sent directly via email will not be considered as a complete application.
- Shortlisting: Based on the qualifications and experience mentioned in the applications, a Screening Committee will shortlist eligible candidates. The Project Leader may restrict the number of candidates for the interview if a large number of applications are received.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be intimated by email and called for an interview. No TA/DA will be admissible for attending the interview.
- Document Verification: Relevant certificates and testimonials will be collected at an appropriate stage (likely during the interview or joining).
- Appointment: The selected candidate will receive an offer and will be required to join duty immediately.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the Research Associate-1 position at IISER Tirupati:
- Download the prescribed application format, which is available below the advertisement (converted into PDF format).
- Fill out the application form carefully with all required details.
- Send the completed application by email to kn.ganesh@labs.iisertirupati.ac.in.
- Make sure to CC (Carbon Copy) your email to a.sharma@labs.iisertirupati.ac.in.
- The email’s subject line MUST clearly mention: “Research Associate-1: 10/2026”.
- Ensure your application is sent on or before the last date, 16th February 2026 by 5:00 PM.
- No other mode of application (e.g., sending only resumes/CVs) will be accepted.
- Ensure your active Mobile Number and Email ID are correctly mentioned in the application form for communication purposes.
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website (Inferred) | iisertirupati.ac.in |
| Application Email (Primary) | kn.ganesh@labs.iisertirupati.ac.in |
| Application Email (CC) | a.sharma@labs.iisertirupati.ac.in |
| SERB National Postdoctoral Fellowship Details | serb.gov.in/npdf.php |
Job Profile & Career Scope
The Research Associate-1 position at IISER Tirupati is a temporary research role focused on the project “Biological studies of Janus Peptide Nucleic Acids” within the Chemical Biology research area. As a Research Associate, you will be actively involved in high-quality scientific research, contributing to the project’s objectives. This role offers an excellent opportunity to:
- Further develop your research skills in a prestigious institution.
- Work under the guidance of Prof K. N. Ganesh, a leading Principal Investigator.
- Gain valuable experience in a specific research domain (Chemical Biology, Synthetic Organic Chemistry).
- Potentially contribute to publications and scientific advancements.
While the position is temporary, successful performance can lead to renewal. Furthermore, this experience at an IISER can significantly enhance your profile for future academic positions, postdoctoral fellowships (like the SERB N-PDF mentioned), or research roles in industry, both in India and abroad. It’s a stepping stone for a career in scientific research and academia.
Preparation Tips
Securing a Research Associate position requires demonstrating strong research aptitude and communication skills. Here are some tips:
For the Application
- Read Carefully: Ensure you understand all instructions for the application format and email submission. Deviating from the specified method can lead to rejection.
- Highlight Research: Since the PDF emphasizes “high-quality research,” ensure your application clearly articulates your research contributions during and after your Ph.D.
- Accuracy: Double-check all details, especially contact information, as shortlisted candidates will be informed via email.
For the Interview
- Know Your Research: Be prepared to discuss your Ph.D. thesis work and any subsequent research in detail. Understand the methodologies, results, and implications.
- Understand the Project: Research “Biological studies of Janus Peptide Nucleic Acids” and the work of Prof K. N. Ganesh. Show how your expertise aligns with the project.
- Review Fundamentals: Brush up on core concepts in Chemical Sciences and Synthetic Organic Chemistry, as these are the primary and desirable qualifications.
- Communication Skills: Practice explaining complex scientific concepts clearly and concisely. Be ready to answer questions about your problem-solving approach and future research interests.
- Prepare Questions: Have some thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer about the project, the lab environment, or IISER Tirupati. This shows your genuine interest.
- Documents: Although not required for initial application, keep your original certificates, mark sheets, Ph.D. certificate/provisional certificate, experience letters, and a valid ID proof ready for verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can candidates awaiting their Ph.D. degree apply for this position?
Yes, candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting the award of a Ph.D. degree may also apply. However, they must produce a letter from a competent authority stating that the thesis has been submitted and the final viva/defense is pending.
Q2: What is the last date to submit the application?
The last date to submit the application via email is 16th February 2026, by 5:00 PM.
Q3: What documents are required for the application?
The notification specifies sending the application in the prescribed format via email. Recent passport-size photographs, photocopies of relevant certificates, and other testimonials will be collected at an appropriate stage, likely during the interview or document verification process.
Q4: Is there an application fee for this recruitment?
The official notification does not mention any application fee for the Research Associate-1 position.
Q5: How will I know if I am shortlisted for the interview?
All shortlisted candidates will be intimated by email only. Therefore, it is crucial to provide an active Mobile Number and Email ID in your application form.
Q6: Is this a permanent position?
No, the appointment is purely temporary for one year and is renewable subject to satisfactory performance. The appointed person will have no claim for permanent appointment/absorption in IISER Tirupati.
Q7: What is the research area for this project?
The research area is Chemical Biology, focusing on “Biological studies of Janus Peptide Nucleic Acids.”
Q8: Can I send my resume/CV directly by email?
No, the notification explicitly states: “Sending resumes/CVs by email will not be considered as a complete application.” You must fill out the prescribed application format and send it via email as instructed.
Q9: Are there any age relaxations?
The maximum age limit is 35 years as of the closing date. However, exceptions can be made in meritorious cases, as per the notification.
Q10: What is the expected in-hand salary for this position?
The fellowship includes a basic amount (Rs. 58,000 or Rs. 42,000) plus 9% HRA (House Rent Allowance). The in-hand salary would be the sum of these components, which would be approximately Rs. 63,220 (with Ph.D. certificate) or Rs. 45,780 (Ph.D. awaited) per month, along with a nominal research grant.
