IIT Madras Project Scientist I Recruitment 2026 — Job Details

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras has released a recruitment notification for the position of Project Scientist I under advertisement number ICSR/PR/Advt.116/2026. This temporary position offers an opportunity for qualified candidates to work at one of India's premier educational institutions in Chennai.

The recruitment drive aims to fill 1 vacancy for Project Scientist I with a competitive salary package of Rs.77,000 per month plus House Rent Allowance. Candidates with a doctoral degree in science or master's degree in engineering or technology from a recognized university are eligible to application window closed for this position through the walk-in interview process.

Quick Facts

About the recruitment

The IIT Madras Project Scientist I recruitment is a temporary contractual position that offers researchers and engineers an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge projects at one of India's most prestigious technical institutions. This position falls under the Institute's project-based hiring system, which typically involves working on specific research initiatives funded by various government or industry partners.

Project Scientist positions at IIT Madras are designed for professionals who have completed advanced degrees and are looking to apply their expertise in a dynamic academic environment. The role typically involves research, development, and implementation of project-specific objectives while working alongside faculty members and research teams.

Important Dates

The key date for this recruitment is the walk-in interview scheduled for 30 June 2026. This date serves as both the application deadline and the interview date, meaning candidates must appear in person on this specific day to be considered for the position.

Candidates should note that there is no separate application submission window before the interview date. The entire selection process, including application consideration and interview, will take place on 30 June 2026 at the designated venue in Chennai.

Vacancy Details

This recruitment drive aims to fill 1 vacancy for Project Scientist I at IIT Madras. The single position indicates that this is a highly specialized role requiring specific qualifications and expertise.

The Project Scientist I position is categorized as a temporary appointment, which typically means the employment is for a fixed duration tied to a specific research project. Candidates should understand that such positions are usually contract-based and may have a defined tenure depending on project requirements and funding availability.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for the Project Scientist I position require candidates to possess either a doctoral degree in science or a master's degree in engineering or technology from a recognized university or equivalent institution. This dual qualification pathway allows both research-oriented candidates with PhDs and technically skilled candidates with master's degrees in engineering/technology to apply.

According to the official notification, relevant experience gained after obtaining the minimum qualifying degree will only be considered during the selection process. The institute has also mentioned that minimum qualification and experience requirements may be relaxed for exceptionally outstanding candidates, providing some flexibility for highly meritorious applicants.

Age Limit

The official notification states that candidates should refer to the detailed notification for specific age limit details. Since age criteria are not explicitly mentioned in the available information, applicants must download and carefully review the official PDF notification to understand the age requirements.

For government and institutional recruitments in India, age limits often include relaxations for reserved categories as per government norms. Candidates should verify if such relaxations apply and ensure they meet the age-related criteria before attending the walk-in interview.

Application Mode

The application mode for this recruitment is walk-in interview, which means candidates must appear in person on the specified date at the designated venue in Chennai. Unlike online application processes, walk-in recruitments require physical presence for both application submission and the selection process.

This mode of application is common for project positions in academic institutions where direct interaction with candidates is preferred. Applicants should be prepared to bring all required documents, certificates, and application materials directly to the interview venue on 30 June 2026.

Selection Process

The selection process for Project Scientist I involves short-listing based on online application information followed by a test and/or interview. This two-stage process ensures that only the most qualified candidates proceed to the final selection round.

The initial shortlisting will be based on the information provided in the application, after which selected candidates will undergo further evaluation through tests or interviews. The exact nature of the test (written, practical, or technical) will be determined by the selection committee based on the position requirements.

Application process reference

The application process for IIT Madras Project Scientist I recruitment requires candidates to attend the walk-in interview on 30 June 2026. Here are the steps candidates should follow:

1. Visit the official IIT Madras careers website at https://icandsr.iitm.ac.in/careers to download and review the detailed notification

1. Prepare all required documents including educational certificates, experience certificates, identity proof, and recent photographs

1. Appear at the designated venue in Chennai on 30 June 2026 with all original documents and copies

1. Participate in the selection process which may include application submission, tests, and interviews as scheduled

Candidates should ensure they arrive well before the scheduled time and carry all necessary documentation to avoid any last-minute complications. The exact venue details and reporting time will be specified in the official notification.

Why this matters

This recruitment opportunity is significant for several reasons. First, it represents a chance to work at IIT Madras, one of India's most prestigious technical institutions known for its cutting-edge research and academic excellence. Working as a Project Scientist here can provide valuable experience and enhance professional credentials.

Second, the position offers a competitive salary package of Rs.77,000 per month plus HRA, which is attractive for early-career researchers and engineers. The temporary nature of the position also makes it suitable for candidates looking for project-based work that aligns with their research interests or career goals without long-term commitment.

Summary

The IIT Madras Project Scientist I recruitment offers a valuable opportunity for qualified candidates to work at a premier technical institution. Interested and eligible candidates should carefully review the official notification available at https://icandsr.iitm.ac.in/careers and prepare to attend the walk-in interview on 30 June 2026 in Chennai with all required documents.