Recruitment of Research Fellows for PM E-DRIVE Scheme

Introduction

The Centre for Management Development (CMD), Thiruvananthapuram, has announced a prestigious recruitment drive for the position of Senior Research Fellows under the PM E-DRIVE Scheme. This initiative is specifically designed to provide high-level HR Management Support Services to a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) in Kerala. The PM E-DRIVE scheme is a significant government initiative aimed at promoting electric vehicle infrastructure and sustainability, making this a prime opportunity for candidates who wish to work at the intersection of public policy, research, and infrastructure development.

The recruitment targets three distinct specialized roles: Power Systems, Computer Science & AI, and Finance. These positions are not just administrative; they require high-level analytical skills and academic expertise in their respective fields. By joining CMD Thiruvananthapuram as a Research Fellow, candidates will be part of a prestigious organization known for its contribution to management development and organizational excellence. This role offers an excellent platform for researchers and young professionals to contribute to national goals while gaining experience in a professional environment that supports the growth of sustainable technologies in India. The selection process is rigorous, ensuring that only those with the required technical acumen and academic background are selected to represent the organization's vision.

Highlights / Quick Overview

Post-wise Vacancy Details

The recruitment is divided into three specific categories to ensure that the research team has experts from various domains of expertise.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure the highest quality of research and support for the PM E-DRIVE project, the following eligibility criteria must be met by the candidates:

Educational Qualifications

• For Sr. Research Fellow (Power Systems): Candidates must possess a B.Tech degree in Electrical Engineering or Minimum Power Systems Electronics, followed by an M.Tech degree in a relevant field.
• For Sr. Research Fellow (Computer Science AI): Candidates must hold a B.Tech in Electrical or Computer Science engineering, along with an M.Tech in Computer Science, Data Science, or Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• For Sr. Research Fellow (Finance): Candidates must possess a B.Tech degree in any stream and an MBA specifically in Finance.

Age Limit

Candidates should be within the age limits prescribed by the governing norms of the Centre for Management Development for contract-based research positions. Applicants are advised to check the official notification for specific age relaxations applicable to reserved categories.

Nationality and Residency

Only candidates who are citizens of India are eligible to apply for these positions. Preference may be given based on the specific requirements mentioned in the official recruitment gazette regarding local residency or experience in Kerala-based projects where applicable.

Important Dates

Application Fee

The application fee structure is as follows (Note: Fees may vary based on specific category updates in the final notification):

Selection Process

The selection process for the Research Fellow positions is multi-staged to ensure that only competent and highly skilled candidates are selected. The stages include:

1. Application Screening: Initial screening of applications based on educational qualifications and basic eligibility criteria.
2. Criteria-based Screening: A deeper dive into the candidate's profile, including relevant experience in research or related fields.
3. Written Test: Candidates who pass the initial screening will appear for a written examination to test domain knowledge (e.g., Power Systems concepts, AI algorithms, or Financial modeling).
4. Group Discussion (GD): Selected candidates will participate in a group discussion to evaluate communication skills, teamwork, and analytical thinking.
5. Skill Test / Proficiency Test: A practical assessment where candidates must demonstrate their technical skills (e.g., coding for AI roles or software proficiency for Finance).
6. Interview: The final round involves a personal interview with a panel of experts from CMD Thiruvananthapuram to assess the candidate's suitability for the project.

Salary / Pay Scale

The selected candidates will be appointed on a contract basis as Research Fellows.

• Monthly Salary: Rs. 40,000 (Fixed Monthly Stipend/Salary)
• Nature of Appointment: Contractual Basis
• Benefits: As per the terms and conditions mentioned in the official appointment letter for research projects under government schemes.

How to Apply Step by Step

Interested and eligible candidates must follow the steps below to complete their application process successfully:

1. Visit Official Website: Go to the official website of the Centre for Management Development (CMD), Thiruvananthapuram at https://cmd.kerala.gov.in/.
2. Navigate to Careers: Locate the 'Recruitment' or 'Careers' section on the homepage.
3. Select Relevant Link: Click on the link specifically mentioned for "Research Fellows for PM E-DRIVE Scheme" or search using Advt No. No.CMD/PSU/08/2026.
4. Registration: Register yourself by providing your name, email ID, mobile number, and other basic details to get a unique login ID.
5. Fill Application Form: Log in with your credentials and fill out the online application form accurately. Ensure that all information matches your supporting documents.
6. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your educational certificates (B.Tech, M.Tech/MBA), identity proof (Aadhar Card/PAN), and experience certificates (if any).
7. Payment of Fee: If applicable, pay the application fee through the online payment gateway provided in the portal.
8. Review and Submit: Carefully review all entered details before clicking on the final 'Submit' button. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation via email/SMS.
9. Print Confirmation: Download and print the successfully submitted application form for future reference during the interview stage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the total number of vacancies available?
There are a total of 3 vacancies: one for Power Systems, one for Computer Science AI, and one for Finance.

2. What is the qualification required for the Research Fellow (Finance) role?
Candidates must have a B.Tech in any stream followed by an MBA in Finance.

3. Is this a permanent government job or a contract-based one?
The positions are offered on a contract basis as part of the research support for the PM E-DRIVE scheme.

4. What is the monthly salary for the selected candidates?
The selected Research Fellows will receive a salary/stipend of Rs. 40,000 per month.

5. Can a candidate with a B.Tech in Civil Engineering apply for the Power Systems role?
No, the specific requirement for the Power Systems role is a B.Tech in Electrical & Min. Power Systems Electronics or related specialized fields.

6. Where is the job location?
The job is located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.

7. What are the stages of the selection process?
The process includes screening, criteria-based evaluation, written test, group discussion, skill/proficiency test, and a final interview.

8. When is the last date to apply online?
The last date to submit your application online is 13/07/2026.

9. Is there an age limit for these positions?
Candidates should meet the eligibility criteria as specified in the official notification issued by CMD Thiruvananthapuram.

10. Can I apply if I have a Master's degree in Data Science?
Yes, candidates with an M.Tech in Data Science or AI can apply for the Sr. Research Fellow (Computer Science AI) position.

Conclusion

The recruitment of Research Fellows by the Centre for Management Development (CMD), Thiruvananthapuram, presents a golden opportunity for highly qualified professionals in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and Finance. Working on a project like the PM E-DRIVE scheme allows you to contribute directly to India's green energy goals while working under a reputable state organization. If you possess the right academic background and are eager to work in an environment that values research and innovation, do not miss this deadline.

Ensure that you prepare your documents thoroughly before applying online. Since the selection process involves multiple rounds including written tests and skill assessments, candidates are advised to brush up on their core technical subjects. Stay updated by visiting the official website cmd.kerala.gov.in regularly for any updates regarding the exam dates or interview schedules. Good luck to all the aspirants!