IIT Delhi Principal Project Scientist Recruitment 2026 — Job Details

The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi), a premier institution for engineering and research in India, has released a formal notification for the recruitment of a Principal Project Scientist. This position is part of a high-impact research project titled 'Photon Number Resolved Superconducting Single Photon Detectors (PNR-SNSDP)', which is funded by the Department of Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence. This recruitment offers a significant opportunity for researchers specializing in superconductivity and nanotechnology to contribute to cutting-edge defense-related technology development. The role is contractual and is based at the Department of Material Science & Engineering at the IIT Delhi campus. Candidates who possess a doctoral degree and relevant research experience are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and submit their applications before the stipulated deadline. As this project is funded by the Ministry of Defence, it carries substantial academic and professional weight for those looking to build a career in advanced experimental physics and material engineering.

Quick Facts

About the recruitment

The recruitment is for one post of Principal Project Scientist at the Department of Material Science & Engineering, IIT Delhi. The project, titled 'Photon Number Resolved Superconducting Single Photon Detectors (PNR-SNSDP)', is a research initiative funded by the Ministry of Defence. The role involves high-level scientific research and development, specifically focusing on superconductivity and single photon detectors. The appointment is contractual and is initially valid until the project's completion, currently estimated as December 15, 2026.

Important Dates

Candidates must ensure that their applications reach the designated authority within the stipulated timeframe. The following dates are critical for this recruitment process:

Key Deadlines

• Last Date for Application Submission: 01 May 2026
• Project Duration: Up to 15 December 2026

Applicants are advised to send their documents well before the closing date to avoid any technical or transmission delays.

Vacancy Details

There is currently one vacancy available for the position of Principal Project Scientist. This is a specialized role requiring specific academic and research expertise.

Key Information Table

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for the Principal Project Scientist position are stringent, reflecting the advanced nature of the research project. Candidates must possess the following qualifications:

Educational Qualifications

• PhD Degree: Candidates must hold a PhD in Physics, Material Science, Nanotechnology, or Electrical Engineering.

Research Experience

• Core Experience: Demonstrated research experience in the field of superconductivity is mandatory.
• Preferred Skills: Candidates with hands-on experience in measurements on low-temperature devices will be given an advantage during the selection process.

Age Limit

Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria and possess the required PhD qualifications are eligible to apply. For specific details regarding age relaxations or maximum age limits, candidates are advised to refer to the official notification PDF provided by the IRD Unit of IIT Delhi.

Application Mode

The application mode is online. According to the recruitment guidelines, there is no application fee mentioned in the official sources for this project-based recruitment. Candidates are required to submit their application via email as part of the online submission process.

Selection Process

The selection for the post of Principal Project Scientist will be conducted through an Online Interview.

Interview Details

Shortlisted candidates will be informed about the interview schedule via email. Since the interview is online, candidates must ensure they have access to a stable internet connection and the necessary hardware for a video call. The selection committee will evaluate the candidate's research background, technical knowledge in superconductivity, and suitability for the project requirements.

Application process reference

Candidates should follow these steps to application window closed for the IIT Delhi recruitment:

1. Visit the official IRD IIT Delhi website at https://ird.iitd.ac.in/.
2. Download the official notification PDF to read all terms and conditions.
3. Prepare a complete bio-data (CV) including personal details, educational qualifications from 10th standard onwards, and detailed research experience.
4. Attach self-attested copies of your PhD degree and relevant experience certificates.
5. Draft an email clearly mentioning the post name 'Principal Project Scientist' and the Project Number 'RP04411G' in the subject line.
6. Send the complete application to the official email address of the Investigator, Prof. Krishna B. Balasubramanian, at bkrishna@mse.iitd.ac.in.
7. Ensure the application is sent before the deadline of 01 May 2026.

Why this matters

Working at IIT Delhi on a DRDO-funded project provides a unique platform for researchers to engage with cutting-edge technology in superconducting detectors. This role not only offers a competitive consolidated salary of Rs. 56,000 plus 27% HRA but also places the scientist at the forefront of material science and nanotechnology research in India. Such experience is invaluable for those aiming for high-level academic or industrial R&D positions in the future.

Summary

The IIT Delhi Principal Project Scientist recruitment for 2026 is a prime opportunity for PhD holders in the physical sciences and engineering. With a deadline of 01 May 2026, interested candidates should prepare their documentation and submit their applications via the official IRD channels. For more details and to download the application format, visit the official website at https://ird.iitd.ac.in/.