Junior Research Fellow (PhD) - Modelling and Predicting Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOFs)

Introduction

The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela, one of India's premier institutes of higher learning and a prestigious "Institute of National Importance," has announced a significant recruitment opportunity for research enthusiasts and aspiring scholars. The institute is inviting applications for the position of Junior Research Fellow (JRF) - PhD specifically for a high-impact research project titled "Modelling and Predicting Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOFs) in High Mountain Asian Region using Ensemble Machine Learning."

This opportunity is designed for candidates who possess a strong technical foundation in fields such as Computer Science, Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Atmospheric Science, Oceanography, or Remote Sensing. The project aims to tackle critical environmental challenges by developing sophisticated predictive frameworks and utilizing high-dimensional feature analysis to predict glacial floods—a major concern in the Himalayan and other high mountain regions. By joining this project at NIT Rourkela, candidates will not only work on cutting-edge technology like Ensemble Machine Learning but also contribute to a cause that impacts climate safety and disaster management. This role is ideal for those looking to kickstart their research career in an academic environment that fosters innovation, provides state-of-the-art infrastructure, and offers a pathway toward a doctoral degree in a specialized field.

Highlights / Quick Overview

Application Fee

| Free (No fee applicable) | | Selection Mode | Online Interview | | Location | Rourkela, Odisha | | Last Date to Apply | 06/07/2026 |

Post-wise Vacancy Details

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

Candidates must meet the following academic requirements to be eligible for the JRF position:

• Basic Education: Candidates must have secured a First Class in both Matriculation (10th) and Higher Secondary (+2) examinations.

• Technical Qualification (Option A): B.Tech/B.E in any of the following disciplines:

  • Computer Science Engineering (CSE)
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Data Science (DS)
  • Atmospheric Science
  • Oceanography
  • Remote Sensing

  Note: Candidates in this category must have a minimum CGPA of 6.5 or 60% marks along with a valid GATE Score.

• Technical Qualification (Option B): M.E/M.Tech in any of the following disciplines:

  • Computer Science Engineering (CSE)
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Data Science (DS)
  • Atmospheric Science
  • Oceanography
  • Remote Sensing

  Note: Candidates in this category must have a minimum CGPA of 7.0 or 65%.

Age Limit

The age limit for the candidates is as per the standard norms applicable to research fellowships in NITs (usually between 25-35 years, though specific limits are governed by the project funding agency). Interested candidates should verify their eligibility based on the official notification.

Nationality

The post is open to Indian Nationals. Candidates possessing a valid GATE score in relevant disciplines will be given preference during the selection process.

Important Dates

Application Fee

The application process for the Junior Research Fellow (PhD) position at NIT Rourkela is Free of Cost. No fee is required from any category of candidates.

Selection Process

The selection process for the JRF position is designed to identify candidates with both technical expertise and research potential. The stages are as follows:

• Initial Screening: The first step involves a thorough screening of the application forms based on eligibility criteria (Degree, CGPA, and GATE Score).
• Shortlisting: Candidates who meet the minimum academic requirements will be shortlisted for the interview round.
• Online Interview: The final selection will be based on an Online Interview scheduled for July 9, 2026.

During the online interview, candidates may be asked to:

• Discuss their academic background and projects.
• Explain their understanding of "Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)".
• Demonstrate knowledge in Machine Learning techniques, specifically Ensemble models.
• Present a brief outline of how they plan to approach the research problem mentioned in the project description.

Salary / Pay Scale

The stipend for the Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position is structured as follows:

• Year 1 & Year 2: ₹37,000 per month.
• Year 3: ₹42,000 per month.

Note: The stipend is provided as part of the research project funding and may be subject to revisions based on institutional norms or fellowship guidelines.

How to Apply Step by Step

1. Visit Official Website: Go to the official NIT Rourkela website (www.nitrkl.ac.in) and navigate to the "Careers" or "Project Fellow" section.
2. Download Notification: Click on the specific link for Advt.- 26CS009 046 to download the full official notification PDF.
3. Verify Eligibility: Carefully read the educational requirements, specifically the CGPA and GATE score requirements, to ensure you qualify before applying.
4. Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documents including your 10th & 12th mark sheets, Graduation/Post-Graduation certificates, Gate Scorecard, and Identity Proof (Aadhar/PAN).
5. Fill Online Application: Fill in the required details in the online application form provided by the institution. Ensure all information matches your supporting documents.
6. Upload Documents: Scan and upload clear copies of your educational certificates, experience letters (if any), and research proposal (if mentioned in the notification).
7. Submit Application: Submit the completed application before the deadline of 06/07/2026.
8. Confirmation: After submission, download and print the acknowledgement copy for future reference during the interview stage.
9. Interview Preparation: Prepare a technical presentation on Machine Learning applications in environmental science to present during the online interview on 09/07/2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the total number of vacancies for the JRF position?
A1: There are a total of 3 vacancies available for the Junior Research Fellow (PhD) position.

Q2: Is there any application fee for this recruitment?
A2: No, the application process is completely free for all candidates.

Q3: What are the educational qualifications required for JRF (PhD)?
A3: Candidates need a First Class in 10th and 12th. For B.E/B.Tech, a minimum CGPA of 6.5 or 60% with a GATE score is needed. For M.E/M.Tech, a minimum CGPA of 7.0 or 65% is required in relevant fields like CSE, IT, AI, DS, etc.

Q4: What is the research project about?
A4: The project focuses on "Modelling and Predicting Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOFs) in High Mountain Asian Region using Ensemble Machine Learning."

Q5: What is the salary for the first two years of the fellowship?
A5: The stipend for the first and second year is ₹37,000 per month.

Q6: What is the salary from the third year onwards?
A6: From the third year, the stipend increases to ₹42,000 per month.

Q7: When is the last date to apply for this position?
A7: The final date to submit your application is 06/07/2026.

Q8: When will the online interview be conducted?
A8: The online interview is scheduled for July 9, 2026.

Q9: Is a GATE score mandatory for B.E/B.Tech candidates?
A9: Yes, for candidates with B.E/B.Tech degrees, a valid GATE score is required along with the specified CGPA/percentage.

Q10: Where is the job location?
A10: The project and position are based at NIT Rourkela in Odisha.

Q11: Can candidates from Oceanography or Remote Sensing apply?
A11: Yes, students with degrees in Oceanography or Remote Sensing are eligible to apply for this research role.

Q12: How can I contact NIT Rourkela for more information?
A12: You can visit the official website at www.nitrkl.ac.in or check the specific advertisement link provided in the notice.

Conclusion

The Junior Research Fellow (PhD) position at NIT Rourkela offers a prestigious opportunity for those passionate about environmental science and advanced computational techniques. By working on the "Modelling and Predicting Glacial Lake Outburst Flood" project, researchers will contribute significantly to disaster mitigation in high-altitude regions while honing their skills in Ensemble Machine Learning and data analysis. With a competitive stipend of up to ₹42,000 and the prestige of an NIT affiliation, this is an excellent career move for serious researchers.

Interested candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly for the online interview by focusing on their technical knowledge in AI/ML and the specific nuances of glacial flood dynamics. Ensure all documents are ready before the deadline of July 6, 2026. For more details, always refer to the official notification on the NIT Rourkela website.