Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026: 08 Vacancy Notification

Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026 Application Starts: 20 April 2026 Total Posts: 08

Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre JRF Recruitment 2026 Notification Out, 8 Vacancies, Apply Online

Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre Junior Research Fellow – Overview

Space Physics Laboratory has released this research-based opportunity recently. The application window opens from 20 April 2026 and closes on 05 May 2026. A total of 8 posts are available. You need to apply online only. There is no application fee mentioned, which makes it easier for all candidates.

Eligibility & Vacancy Details

To apply, you’ll need to have M.Sc or M.Tech degree in relevant fields. Minimum 60% marks or equivalent CGPA is required. Also, valid NET, GATE, or JEST score is needed. The age limit is 28 years, with relaxation for reserved categories. All 8 vacancies are for Junior Research Fellow roles.

Selection Process, Salary & Documents

The selection will happen through shortlisting followed by interview. There is no written exam stage. Selected candidates will receive ₹37,000 monthly, which can increase to ₹42,000 later. You’ll need to upload degree certificates, scorecards, age proof, and category certificates during application and verification stages.

Date20 April 2026
Advertisement NoVSSC-339
Recruitment AuthorityVikram Sarabhai Space Centre
Post NameJunior Research Fellow
Total Vacancies08 Posts
Application Start Date20 April 2026
Last Date to Apply05 May 2026
Age Limit28 Years (Relaxation Applicable)
Selection ProcessShortlisting and Interview
Salary₹37,000 to ₹42,000 per month

Important Dates & Fees

Important Dates

Notification Release Date20 April 2026
Online Application Start20 April 2026
Last Date to Apply Online05 May 2026 (Apply Early!)
Interview DateTo be Announced
💡 Expert AdviceDon’t wait till the last day, submit your form early to avoid server issues.

Application Fees

Application FeeNo Fees For All Categories

Vacancy Details and Eligibility Criteria

Vacancy Details

Name of Post Number of Posts
Junior Research Fellow (JRF) 08
Total Vacancies 08

Eligibility Criteria

Post Name Eligibility Criteria
Junior Research Fellow (JRF) Age Limit: 28 years as on 05 May 2026
Age Relaxation: OBC – 31 years, SC/ST – 33 years, PwD as per rules
Education: M.Sc in Physics / Applied Physics / Atmospheric Science / Meteorology / Planetary Sciences OR M.Tech / M.E in relevant disciplines with minimum 60% marks or 6.5 CGPA
Additional Requirement: Valid NET / GATE / JEST qualification required

Category Wise Posts and Exam Pattern

Category Wise Posts

Category No. of Posts
UR (Unreserved) 08
Total 08 Posts

Exam Pattern

Stage Details
Stage I Application Screening based on academic performance and valid NET/GATE/JEST score
Stage II Personal Interview conducted at VSSC, Thiruvananthapuram

Category Wise Posts and Age Relaxation

Category Wise Posts

Category Junior Research Fellow Total
UR (Unreserved) 08 08
Total 08 08

Note: Scroll horizontally to view all post categories →

Category Wise Age Relaxation

Category Age Relaxation Maximum Age
UR / EWSNo Relaxation28 Years
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)3 Years31 Years
SC / ST5 Years33 Years
PwBD (Divyang) - UR10 Years38 Years
PwBD (Divyang) - SC/ST/OBC13–15 Years41–43 Years

Physical Eligibility Criteria and Salary

Job Profile & Responsibilities

Work Nature Research-based role in atmospheric, space, and planetary sciences
Key Responsibilities • Conduct research in space and atmospheric science domains
• Participate in field experiments including aircraft and ship campaigns
• Work on national and international scientific projects
• Assist in data analysis from satellite and experimental missions
Research Opportunity Eligible to register for Ph.D under senior faculty guidance
Posting Flexibility Must be willing to work anywhere in India including remote locations

Salary Details

Pay Level / Type Research Fellowship (JRF/SRF)
Fixed Pay / Pay Scale ₹37,000 per month (JRF)
Growth Upgraded to ₹42,000 per month as SRF after 2 years based on performance
Allowances HRA as per VSSC rules, no Dearness Allowance
Job Location Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala with field assignments across India

Syllabus and How to Fill Application Form

Syllabus

Subject Topics Covered
Core Subject Knowledge • Atmospheric Science and Meteorology
• Space Physics and Ionospheric Studies
• Planetary Science and Exploration
• Boundary Layer Physics and Climate Dynamics
Research & Analytical Skills • Data analysis and interpretation
• Scientific modelling techniques
• Research methodology and experimentation
Interview Preparation • Subject understanding and concept clarity
• Previous academic and research projects
• Practical application of scientific theories

How to Fill Application Form

Step 1Visit the official VSSC recruitment portal at vssc.gov.in
Step 2Find the JRF Recruitment 2026 notification and open the apply link
Step 3Complete the online registration process with valid email and details
Step 4Fill the application form carefully with correct academic information
Step 5Upload required documents in a single PDF file as instructed
Step 6Review all details before final submission to avoid rejection
Step 7Submit the form and download a copy for future reference

Mode of Selection and Documents Required

Mode of Selection

Shortlisting Criteria Based on academic performance and valid NET/GATE/JEST score
Interview Personal interview at VSSC for shortlisted candidates
Final Selection Based on Merit and Document Verification

Documents Required

1. Personal ID • Proof of Age (Birth Certificate / 10th Certificate)
• Valid Photo Identity Proof
2. Educational • M.Sc / M.Tech Degree Certificate
• Consolidated Mark Sheets
• NET / GATE / JEST Score Card
3. Category/Caste • SC/ST/OBC Certificate (if applicable)
• PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
4. Miscellaneous • No Objection Certificate (if employed)
• Equivalency Certificate for foreign degree (if applicable)
• Printed copy of submitted application form

Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre Recruitment 2026 Detailed Information & Complete Guide

Important Dates

If you're tracking the latest ISRO research job notification 2026, note these dates carefully. The application starts on 20 April 2026 and closes on 05 May 2026. I noticed the window is quite short. So don’t delay your submission. Pro-tip: keep a saved copy of your form and documents ready before applying.

Application Fees

Good news for candidates searching for zero application fee government jobs in India. There is no fee for any category in this recruitment. Our team found this makes it accessible for all applicants. You can apply without payment worries. Pro-tip: still double-check your form before submitting since no correction window exists.

Vacancy Details Post Wise

If you're looking for Junior Research Fellow vacancy details in ISRO 2026, there are 8 total posts. All vacancies are for JRF roles under Space Physics Laboratory. This is a research-focused opportunity. I suggest applying early due to limited seats. Pro-tip: competition will be high because of the small vacancy count.

Vacancy Details Category Wise

As per this ISRO VSSC vacancy distribution 2026, all 8 posts fall under unreserved category. No separate reservation breakup is mentioned. This means selection depends purely on merit. We recommend preparing well. Pro-tip: even without reservation split, category benefits like age relaxation still apply where eligible.

Eligibility Criteria

For those searching JRF eligibility in ISRO 2026, you’ll need M.Sc or M.Tech in relevant science fields with minimum 60% marks. Also, NET, GATE, or JEST qualification is mandatory. Age limit is 28 years with relaxation. I suggest checking your score validity. Pro-tip: ensure your marks and documents match official records.

Exam Pattern

If you are wondering about ISRO JRF selection process without written exam, there is no test stage. Shortlisting happens based on academic performance and national-level scores. Then comes the interview round. This makes preparation focused. Pro-tip: strengthen your subject basics and research knowledge for interview success.

Salary

As far as ISRO JRF salary structure 2026 is concerned, it starts at ₹37,000 per month. After two years, it can increase to ₹42,000 as SRF. HRA is also provided. This is a solid research stipend. Pro-tip: consistent performance during fellowship is key for salary growth and Ph.D progression.

Syllabus

If you're preparing for ISRO JRF interview syllabus topics, focus on core subjects like atmospheric science, physics, and space research concepts. Questions will test your understanding and application. I noticed interview plays a major role here. Pro-tip: revise your academic projects and practical knowledge thoroughly.

Mode of Selection

Looking at ISRO JRF selection stages 2026, the process includes shortlisting and interview only. There is no written exam. This is a direct path to research careers. We recommend focusing on conceptual clarity. Pro-tip: be ready to explain your previous work and research interests confidently.

Documents Required

If you're checking documents required for ISRO JRF application 2026, keep your degree certificates, mark sheets, NET/GATE/JEST scorecard, and ID proof ready. Category certificate is needed if applicable. I suggest preparing scanned copies in advance. Pro-tip: ensure all documents are clear and combined into a single PDF file.

Additional Information & Important Notes

Beyond the standard recruitment details, the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre notification contains several crucial points that candidates must thoroughly understand before proceeding with their application:

Future Career Scope and Growth

While the notification looks simple on the surface, this role is more than just a fellowship. I noticed that it offers a direct path into advanced research careers. Selected candidates can register for a Ph.D and work on national space missions. This is not a permanent job initially, but it builds a strong foundation for long-term scientific careers. We recommend treating this as a stepping stone into ISRO or academic research roles. The exposure here can shape your entire career path.

Eligibility Barrier and Competition Level

One thing our team found is that the biggest challenge is not the age limit but the qualification requirement. You must have both a relevant degree and a valid NET, GATE, or JEST score. Many candidates miss this combination. Competition will be intense due to only 8 seats. I suggest verifying your eligibility early. Focus on your subject depth because interview performance matters more than marks alone in this selection process.

Work Environment and Lifestyle

Moving on to the lifestyle aspect, this is not a desk-only job. Selected fellows may need to travel for field experiments, including aircraft missions and remote research stations. I noticed that flexibility is clearly mentioned. You should be comfortable working in different locations across India. This role suits candidates who enjoy practical scientific work. It’s a mix of lab research and real-world experimentation, which makes it quite dynamic.

Common Rejection Reasons and Safety Tips

From my experience, most rejections happen due to small mistakes. Incorrect marks entry, missing documents, or wrong date of birth details can lead to cancellation. Another major issue is not uploading documents in a single PDF file. I strongly recommend checking every detail before submission. Also, keep your certificates ready for verification. Avoid relying on last-minute uploads, as technical errors can cost you this opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre Recruitment 2026

What is the last date to apply for VSSC JRF Recruitment 2026?

The last date to submit the online application form is 05 May 2026. I recommend applying early because the application window is short and the official website may slow down near the deadline.

What is the total number of vacancies available?

A total of 8 Junior Research Fellow posts are available under this recruitment. Since the seats are limited, competition is expected to be high, so prepare accordingly.

What is the age limit for this hiring process?

The maximum age limit is 28 years as on 05 May 2026. Age relaxation is available for OBC, SC, ST, and PwBD candidates as per government norms.

Is there any application fee for this job opening?

No, there is no application fee for any category in this recruitment. This makes it accessible for all candidates without financial burden.

What qualification is required for Junior Research Fellow posts?

You must have an M.Sc or M.Tech degree in relevant disciplines with at least 60% marks along with a valid NET, GATE, or JEST qualification.

Is there any written exam in VSSC recruitment 2026?

No, there is no written exam in this recruitment process. Selection is based on shortlisting and interview, which makes it a direct research-based opportunity.

What is the salary for JRF in VSSC?

The initial salary is ₹37,000 per month, which can increase to ₹42,000 after two years as Senior Research Fellow along with HRA benefits.

Can final year students apply for this recruitment?

No, unfortunately final year or result-awaited candidates are generally not eligible. You must have completed your degree and possess valid score certificates before applying.

What is the selection process for this vacancy?

The selection process includes application screening followed by a personal interview. Final selection depends on merit and document verification.

Where will the job location be?

The primary job location is Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. However, candidates should be ready for fieldwork and assignments across India.

Can I edit my application after submission?

No, once the application is submitted, no changes are allowed. So you should carefully verify all details before final submission.

What should I do if I upload wrong documents?

If incorrect documents are uploaded, your application may be rejected. Since there is no correction window, it’s important to upload accurate files initially.

Is NET or GATE mandatory for this recruitment?

Yes, a valid NET, GATE, or JEST qualification is mandatory. Without it, your application will not be considered for shortlisting.

Will travel allowance be provided for interview?

Yes, outstation candidates will receive reimbursement for second class railway fare based on proof of journey, as per official rules.

What happens after selection in this recruitment notification?

After selection, candidates will join as JRF and can register for a Ph.D. The fellowship can be extended up to five years based on performance.

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