ISRO VSSC Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026 — Job Details

The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is the lead centre of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) responsible for the design and development of launch vehicle technology. As part of its ongoing research initiatives, VSSC has officially released a recruitment notification (Advertisement No. VSSC-339) inviting applications from qualified candidates for the position of Junior Research Fellow (JRF). This recruitment drive aims to fill 8 vacancies, offering a significant opportunity for aspiring researchers to contribute to India's space program.

For candidates seeking to advance their academic and professional careers in space science, meteorology, or atmospheric physics, this role provides a structured environment to work under the guidance of leading scientists. Understanding the nuances of this recruitment is essential for a successful application. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the eligibility criteria, the application process, and the selection stages, ensuring that you have all the necessary information to submit your application accurately before the deadline. Whether you are a fresh postgraduate or a researche

Quick Facts

About the recruitment

The Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position at ISRO VSSC is a contract-based engagement designed to support the centre's research activities. With 8 vacancies available, the role is highly competitive and requires a strong academic background in specific scientific and engineering disciplines. Candidates selected for this position will receive a monthly stipend ranging from Rs. 37,000 to Rs. 42,000, depending on the specific terms of the fellowship and applicable guidelines.

This recruitment is conducted under the VSSC-339 advertisement. The primary objective of this hiring process is to identify candidates who not only meet the minimum academic qualifications but also possess the required research aptitude demonstrated through national-level examinations like GATE, NET, or JEST. As an organization at the forefront of space technology, VSSC maintains rigorous standards for its research fellows, ensuring that only the most qualified individuals are selected to participate in their ongoing projects.

Important Dates

Candidates must adhere to the following schedule to ensure their application is considered for the selection process:

• Online Application Start: 20 April 2026
• Last Date for Submission: 05 May 2026
• Age Limit Cut-off Date: 05 May 2026
• Crucial Date of Eligibility: 05 May 2026

It is highly recommended that candidates complete their online registration well before the closing date of May 5, 2026, to avoid any last-minute technical issues on the official portal. The application window is strictly defined, and no submissions will be accepted after the specified time.

Vacancy Details

The recruitment notification specifies a total of 8 vacancies for the position of Junior Research Fellow. These positions are distributed across the research domains mentioned in the eligibility criteria. Candidates are encouraged to review the official notification (VSSC-339) to understand the specific requirements for each research area.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for the JRF position are stringent, focusing on both academic excellence and research qualification.

Educational Qualifications: Candidates must hold an M.Sc. degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Engineering Physics, Space Physics, Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, or Planetary Sciences with a minimum of 60% marks. Alternatively, candidates with an M.S., M.E., or M.Tech. degree in Atmospheric Science, Space Science, Planetary Science, Applied Physics, or Engineering Physics (with at least 60% marks or a CGPA of 6.5/10) are also eligible.

National Level Exams: In addition to the postgraduate degree, candidates must have qualified in one of the following national-level examinations: CSIR-UGC NET (including Lectureship), GATE, or JEST. These qualifications serve as a benchmark for the research caliber expected at VSSC. Candidates must ensure their degree certificates and scorecards are ready for verification, as these are mandatory requirements for the application process.

Age Limit

The age limit for the Junior Research Fellow position is set to ensure a pipeline of young researchers. The maximum age for the general category is 28 years as of the cut-off date, which is May 5, 2026.

Relaxations are provided for reserved categories as per government norms:

• OBC Candidates: Up to 31 years
• SC/ST Candidates: Up to 33 years
• PWD Candidates: As per government rules

All age-related claims must be supported by valid documentation, such as a Secondary School Certificate, which will be verified during the selection process.

Application Mode

The application process for the ISRO VSSC recruitment is entirely online. Candidates must visit the official recruitment portal at https://rmt.vssc.gov.in/RMT339/applyV1.jsp to register and submit their application. There is no application fee for this recruitment, making it accessible to all eligible candidates. It is important to note that no other mode of application, such as postal or in-person submission, will be accepted by the organization.

Selection Process

The selection process for the JRF position is designed to identify candidates with the highest potential for research. It consists of two main stages:

1. Initial Screening: Applications received through the online portal will be screened based on the educational qualifications, marks, and valid national-level exam scores (GATE/NET/JEST). Only candidates who meet the criteria will be shortlisted.
2. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview. The interview panel will assess the candidate's subject knowledge, research interests, and overall suitability for the projects being undertaken at VSSC.

Candidates should be prepared to discuss their academic projects and demonstrate a deep understanding of their core subjects, as the interview is the final determinant for selection.

Application process reference

To application window closed for the ISRO VSSC Junior Research Fellow position, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the official VSSC website at https://www.vssc.gov.in/.
2. Access the Recruitment Portal: Navigate to the recruitment section and locate the link for Advertisement VSSC-339. Alternatively, go directly to the application link: https://rmt.vssc.gov.in/RMT339/applyV1.jsp.
3. Read Instructions: Carefully read all instructions provided on the portal before starting the application.
4. Fill the Form: Enter your personal, academic, and qualification details accurately. Ensure that your name, date of birth, and other details match your official documents.
5. Upload Documents: Prepare a single PDF document containing your M.Sc./M.Tech. degree certificate, consolidated mark sheet, GATE/NET/JEST score sheet/award letter, proof of age, and caste certificate (if applicable). Upload this as required.
6. Verify and Submit: Before clicking the final submit button, double-check every entry. Once submitted, no corrections can be made.
7. Save the Application: After submission, take a printout or save the final application form in PDF format for future reference. You will need this during the selection process.

Why this matters

Working at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre is a unique opportunity for young scientists. As a premier institute under ISRO, VSSC provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and the opportunity to work alongside some of India's most accomplished space scientists. For a researcher, this fellowship is not just a job but a platform to contribute to national missions, gain hands-on experience in complex engineering and scientific problems, and build a strong foundation for a career in space research. The competitive nature of the selection process ensures that those who succeed are part of a high-caliber team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of science and technology.

Summary

The ISRO VSSC Junior Research Fellow recruitment is a prestigious opportunity for qualified candidates to contribute to India's space research endeavors. With a clear application window and a transparent selection process, interested candidates should ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and submit their applications through the official portal at https://rmt.vssc.gov.in/RMT339/applyV1.jsp before the May 5, 2026, deadline. For further updates and detailed information, please visit the official website at https://www.vssc.gov.in/.