NIT Raipur ICSSR Project Recruitment 2026: Research Assistant & Field Investigator Vacancies

NIT Raipur Recruitment 2026 – Overview

The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Raipur has announced a recruitment drive for temporary project-based positions under an ICSSR-sponsored research project. The institute is inviting online applications for 04 vacancies for the posts of Research Assistant and Field Investigator. This recruitment is a specialized opportunity for candidates holding post-graduate degrees in social sciences to engage in meaningful academic research. The application process is entirely online, combining a Google Form submission and email dispatch, with a strict deadline. The selection will be based on a personal interview scheduled at the institute's campus.

Eligibility, Selection Process & Key Highlights

Candidates aspiring for these roles must possess a post-graduate degree in social science or a related discipline with a minimum of 55% marks. Preference will be given to those with NET/M.Phil./Ph.D. qualifications and prior experience in research projects, surveys, and data analysis. Fluency in Hindi, English, and native languages of specific states is highly desirable. The positions are purely temporary, co-terminus with the project, and offer a consolidated monthly remuneration along with TA/DA for fieldwork. Applicants must carefully follow the dual-application process (Google Form + Email) to ensure their candidature is considered. Willingness to travel extensively for data collection is a mandatory requirement for both posts.

About Important Dates of NIT Raipur Recruitment 2026

The timeline for the NIT Raipur recruitment is concise, reflecting the temporary and project-specific nature of the positions. The application window from February 4 to February 13, 2026, is relatively short, emphasizing the need for prompt action from interested candidates. The most critical date is February 13, which is the final day to complete both steps of the application: submitting the Google Form and sending the application/CV via email. Missing either step will lead to disqualification. The interview is scheduled just five days later on February 18, 2026, indicating a swift selection process. Shortlisted candidates will be informed via email or phone, so applicants must monitor their registered contact details closely after the application deadline. There is no separate admit card download; the interview call itself serves as the communication for selection to the next stage.

About Application Fees for NIT Raipur Recruitment 2026

There is no application fee for any candidate applying for the Research Assistant or Field Investigator posts at NIT Raipur. This is a significant advantage, especially for freshers and students, as it removes a financial barrier to application. The recruitment is being conducted for a specific research project funded by ICSSR, and such project recruitments often do not involve application charges. However, the absence of a fee does not lessen the importance of the application. Candidates must still ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and submit a complete, well-prepared application. It's also important to note that while there is no fee to apply, no Travel Allowance or Dearness Allowance (TA/DA) will be provided to candidates for attending the personal interview at the NIT Raipur campus.

About Vacancy Details of NIT Raipur Recruitment 2026

The vacancy distribution clearly outlines the project's staffing needs: one senior role (Research Assistant) for a longer duration and three supporting roles (Field Investigators) for a shorter period. The Research Assistant position, with a 10-month tenure, likely involves core research activities like literature review, data analysis, and report writing, requiring a candidate with a stronger academic background. The three Field Investigator posts, with a 5-month tenure, are primarily focused on ground-level data collection through surveys and interviews. The term "extendable" is crucial; it means the tenure may be prolonged based on project requirements and the candidate's performance, but it does not guarantee permanent employment. Candidates should apply for the position that best matches their career stage—Field Investigator is suitable for recent post-graduates seeking field experience, while Research Assistant is ideal for those with additional qualifications or research experience.

About Eligibility Criteria of NIT Raipur Recruitment 2026

The eligibility criteria are designed to attract candidates who can immediately contribute to a social science research project. The 55% minimum marks in post-graduation is a standard filter for academic quality. The "desirable" qualifications—NET/M.Phil./Ph.D. and research experience—are not mandatory but will be key differentiators during shortlisting. In a competitive scenario, candidates possessing these will have a distinct advantage. The language requirements are project-specific; knowledge of languages from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, or Maharashtra suggests the fieldwork will be conducted in these states. The most critical non-academic criterion is the mandatory willingness to travel. Candidates who are not prepared for extensive fieldwork should reconsider applying, as this is a core function of both roles. This criterion ensures that only those genuinely interested in hands-on research apply.

About Age Limit for NIT Raipur Recruitment 2026

The official notification does not specify a strict upper or lower age limit for these positions. This is common for temporary project roles funded by research bodies like ICSSR, where the focus is primarily on qualifications, relevant skills, and the ability to perform the assigned tasks. However, the absence of a stated limit does not imply there is no consideration of age. The selection committee may implicitly prefer candidates who can commit to the project's demanding travel schedule. Furthermore, if age relaxations are applicable (e.g., for SC/ST/OBC), they would typically follow Government of India or ICSSR guidelines for project staff. Candidates who are concerned about this should directly contact the recruiting department at NIT Raipur (amanjhi.hss@nitrr.ac.in) for clarification before applying. In practice, such roles often attract young researchers and post-doctoral scholars.

About Salary for NIT Raipur Recruitment 2026

The remuneration offered is a consolidated stipend/salary, not a regular pay scale with increments and grade pay. The Research Assistant will receive Rs. 37,000 per month, and the Field Investigator will receive Rs. 20,000 per month. This is the fixed amount for the role, and no other regular allowances (like HRA, DA) are included, as is common in permanent positions. The key additional benefit is the TA/DA (Travel Allowance and Daily Allowance) provided for official fieldwork, which will be reimbursed as per NIT Raipur's rules. This is crucial as extensive travel is required. Candidates should understand that this is a project-based fellowship/stipend, ideal for gaining experience and contributing to a research output. It is not a permanent government job with associated long-term benefits like pension, but it offers competitive compensation for short-term academic research work.

About How to Apply for NIT Raipur Recruitment 2026

The application process is a two-step procedure that candidates must follow meticulously to avoid disqualification. First, you must fill out the Google Form, which likely captures your basic details and interest. Second, and equally important, you must email the filled application form (in the prescribed format from the PDF) along with your detailed CV to the given email address. A common mistake is to complete only one of these steps. Your CV is your primary tool for shortlisting; it should highlight your academic scores, research experience (thesis, projects, internships), knowledge of statistical software, language proficiency, and any publications. Ensure the email subject line is clear, such as "Application for Research Assistant - Your Name". Keep proof of your email submission and Google Form completion.

About Mode of Selection for NIT Raipur Recruitment 2026

The selection process is straightforward but highly competitive. Since there is no written exam, your application package (Form + CV) is the sole ticket to the interview. The shortlisting committee will look for keywords matching the "desirable" criteria—NET/Ph.D., research experience, software skills, and relevant language proficiency. If your CV clearly demonstrates these, your chances of being shortlisted increase significantly. The personal interview is the final and decisive stage. Be prepared to discuss your previous research work, your understanding of social science research methodologies, and your motivation for this specific project. Since the role involves travel, you may be asked about your willingness and ability to undertake fieldwork. The interview also serves as document verification, so carry all original certificates.

Beyond the standard details, this project recruitment under ICSSR at NIT Raipur comes with specific conditions that define the nature of employment and candidate expectations.

Temporary & Project-Specific Nature of Employment

The appointment is purely temporary and co-terminus with the project. This is the most critical condition. It means the job exists only as long as the ICSSR project is active and funded. There is no provision for absorption into regular NIT Raipur staff after the project ends. The tenure is initially for the stated period (10 or 5 months) but is "extendable" based on project needs and your performance, subject to monthly reviews. This structure is ideal for researchers looking for short-term engagement, fieldwork experience, and a prestigious project name on their CV, but it is not a source of long-term job security. Candidates should view this as a fellowship or research assignment rather than conventional employment.

Commitment to Fieldwork and Performance Review

A mandatory requirement for both posts is the willingness to travel extensively for fieldwork. The project involves primary data collection from multiple states, so selected candidates must be prepared for sustained periods away from Raipur. The TA/DA provided is meant to cover these expenses as per institute rules. Furthermore, continuation in the role is subject to satisfactory performance. The Principal Investigator (PI) of the project will conduct regular reviews. This means that even during the contract period, underperformance can lead to termination. Candidates must be self-motivated, adaptable, and capable of working independently in the field while meeting the project's research objectives and deadlines.

Exclusivity and Ethical Conditions

The notification imposes strict exclusivity: selected candidates must work on a full-time basis and cannot receive any other monetary benefit from any other institute during the tenure. This rules out simultaneous engagements like other jobs, fellowships, or even full-time PhD registration unless specifically permitted. Additionally, canvassing in any form will lead to disqualification. This underscores that selection is based purely on merit and interview performance. Candidates should rely on the strength of their application and skills rather than any external recommendations. Adherence to these ethical and contractual conditions is paramount for maintaining the integrity of the research project.

1. What is the last date to apply for NIT Raipur Research Assistant posts?

The last date to submit both the Google Form and email application is 13 February 2026. Ensure both steps are completed before the end of the day to avoid rejection.

2. Is there an application fee for these project positions?

No. There is no application fee required for any candidate applying for the Research Assistant or Field Investigator posts under this ICSSR project recruitment.

3. Can I apply if I am in the final year of my post-graduation?

No. The eligibility requires a completed post-graduate degree with a minimum of 55% marks. Final year students awaiting results are not eligible unless they have already received their final degree and mark sheet.

4. What is the salary for the Field Investigator post?

The Field Investigator will receive a consolidated monthly remuneration of Rs. 20,000, plus Travel Allowance and Daily Allowance (TA/DA) for official fieldwork as per NIT Raipur norms.

5. Will TA/DA be provided for attending the interview?

No. The notification clearly states that no Travel Allowance or Dearness Allowance will be paid to candidates for attending the personal interview at NIT Raipur.

6. Is knowledge of statistical software mandatory?

It is listed as a desirable qualification, not mandatory. However, candidates with working knowledge of software like SPSS or STATA will have a significant advantage during shortlisting and interview.

7. How will I know if I am shortlisted for the interview?

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted via the email address or phone number provided in their application. Keep a close watch on your inbox and spam folder after 13th February.

8. Are these permanent jobs at NIT Raipur?

No. These are purely temporary, project-based positions co-terminus with the ICSSR research project. There is no provision for permanent absorption.

9. What documents do I need to bring to the interview?

You must bring all original educational certificates, mark sheets, experience proofs, photo ID, and one set of self-attested photocopies, along with your application form and CV.

10. Is the Google Form submission enough, or is email mandatory?

Both are mandatory. Submitting only the Google Form or only the email will lead to an incomplete application and disqualification. You must complete both steps.

11. What is the tenure of the Research Assistant post?

The Research Assistant post has an initial tenure of 10 months, which is extendable based on project requirements and the candidate's performance.

12. Can OBC/SC/ST candidates apply for these posts?

Yes, candidates from all categories can apply. The notification does not specify reservation details, but NIT Raipur likely follows government norms for project staff. Check your eligibility based on qualifications.

13. What kind of fieldwork is expected?

Fieldwork will involve primary data collection, likely through surveys, interviews, or focus group discussions in the states mentioned (Rajasthan, MP, etc.). It requires interaction with local communities.

14. Is a Ph.D. compulsory for the Research Assistant post?

No, a Ph.D. is a desirable qualification. Candidates with a strong Master's degree (55%+) and relevant research experience are eligible and encouraged to apply.

15. Where will the interview take place?

The personal interview will be conducted in the Department of Humanities & Social Sciences (HSS) at the National Institute of Technology Raipur campus.