IIT Madras Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online for 8 Project Technical Support, Project Research Scientist Posts

The Centre for Industrial Consultancy and Sponsored Research (IC&SR), Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), has released six advertisements dated 23.10.2026 for temporary, contract-basis project posts in the Department of Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering, IIT Madras. The advertisements cover Project Research Scientist III, Project Research Scientist II (two advertisements), Project Technical Support III, Project Technical Support II and Project Technical Support I, with 8 vacancies in total. Eligible candidates can apply online on the IC&SR careers page on or before 06.11.2026.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 – Quick Summary

• Who is recruiting? Centre for IC&SR, IIT Madras (Department of Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering).
• Which posts? Project Research Scientist III, Project Research Scientist II, Project Technical Support III, Project Technical Support II and Project Technical Support I.
• How many vacancies? 8 in total across six advertisements (1 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 2).
• Who can apply? Indian citizens meeting the post-wise qualification, experience and age conditions given below.
• Application start date: Not specified in the notification. The advertisements are dated 23.10.2026.
• Last date: 06.11.2026.
• Application mode: Online only, through https://icandsr.iitm.ac.in/careers/current_openings.php.
• Job location: Department of Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering, IIT Madras, Chennai – 600 036.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Overview

IIT Madras has invited applications for temporary project posts under ICMR-funded projects. All positions are on a purely contract basis. The duration is initially one year and is extendable based on performance. The coordinator named in every advertisement is Prof. Raghavendra Sai V V, Department of Applied Mechanics & Biomedical Engineering, IIT Madras.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Important Dates

The notification gives the advertisement date and the closing date. It does not give a separate date for the start of online applications.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details

There are 8 vacancies in total. The notification does not give any category-wise (reservation) breakup of these vacancies.

Project Under Each Advertisement

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility is post-specific. Qualification, experience and age limit for each post are given in the sections below. In addition, the notification lays down these general conditions:

• Candidates must be citizens of India. Persons who migrated from Pakistan with the intention of permanently settling in India, or subjects of Nepal, are also eligible, but a certificate of eligibility from the Government of India will be necessary for appointment. Such candidates should apply to the Government of India in the Ministry of Home Affairs for the certificate and furnish satisfactory proof of having applied.
• The prescribed qualifications are minimum. Unless specified, they are required for consideration even if a higher qualification has been acquired, and possessing a higher qualification does not entitle a candidate to be called for interview.
• Only relevant experience gained after the minimum qualifying degree will be considered. Minimum requirements of qualification and/or experience can be relaxed for exceptionally outstanding candidates.
• The required experience is relaxable at the Institute's discretion for Scheduled Caste / Scheduled Tribe candidates, if at any stage of selection the competent authority is of the opinion that a sufficient number of candidates from these communities with the requisite experience are not likely to be available to fill the vacancy reserved for them.
• The crucial date for determining eligibility in every respect is the prescribed closing date for submission of online application, 06.11.2026.
• Applicants already working in any project at IIT Madras must apply through proper channel. Otherwise, they must produce a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) at the time of document verification / test / interview. Candidates without NOC will not be permitted to appear for the test / interview.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Qualification and Experience

The qualification and experience conditions below are given as they appear in each advertisement.

IIT Madras Project Research Scientist III Qualification (Advt. 211/2026)

• Post Graduate Degree, including the integrated PG degrees, with five years' post qualification experience, or PhD + two years' post qualification experience.
• For Engineering / IT / CS: Four Years Graduate degree with five years' experience post qualification, or PG degree with three years' post qualification experience, or PhD.

The notification does not state whether the "PhD" option for Engineering / IT / CS candidates also carries an experience requirement. Candidates should confirm this on the official advertisement.

IIT Madras Project Research Scientist II Qualification (Advt. 212/2026 and 216/2026)

Both advertisements carry the same qualification:

• First-class PG degree (including integrated PG) with 3 years of experience, or PhD.
• OR Second-class PG degree (including integrated PG), with PhD and 3 years of experience.

IIT Madras Project Technical Support III Qualification (Advt. 215/2026)

• Three Years Graduate degree in relevant subject / field + three years post qualification experience, or PG in relevant subject / field.
• OR For Engineering / IT / CS: Four Years Graduate Degree.

IIT Madras Project Technical Support II Qualification (Advt. 214/2026)

• 12th in Science + Diploma (MLT) / DMLT / Engineering or equivalent + Five Years' Experience in relevant subject / field.
• OR Three Years Graduate degree in relevant subject / field + two years' experience in relevant subject.

IIT Madras Project Technical Support I Qualification (Advt. 217/2026)

• 12th + Diploma (MLT) / DMLT / Engineering or equivalent + Two Years' Experience in relevant subject / field.
• OR Three Years Graduate degree in relevant subject / field + one year experience in relevant subject.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Age Limit

The age limit is "up to" the figures below. The notification does not state a reference date for calculating age, and it does not mention any age relaxation. The only date it fixes for eligibility is the closing date of online applications (06.11.2026).

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Salary

Pay is a consolidated monthly amount plus 30% HRA, as given in the advertisements.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Application Fee

The application fee is not specified in the provided notifications.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Selection Process

The notification does not list fixed selection stages. It states the following:

• Candidates will be short-listed for Test / Interview on the basis of the information provided in their online applications. They must ensure that this information is true.
• The Institute has the right to decide the mode of screening and testing the applicants for short-listing and selection.
• The Institute may restrict the number of candidates called for written / skill test / interview to a reasonable limit, on the basis of qualifications, level and relevance of experience above the minimum prescribed, and other academic achievements.
• Calling a candidate for test / interview only indicates that the candidate may be suitable. It gives no assurance of recommendation or selection.
• Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. All correspondence will be made by e-mail only.
• Admission to any stage of selection is purely provisional, subject to confirmation that the candidate satisfies the prescribed eligibility conditions.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Job Description and Responsibilities

The text below follows the "Job Description" given in each advertisement.

Note: In Advt. 211/2026 and Advt. 212/2026, the job description text refers to the role as "Project Research Scientist-I", while the post named in the advertisement and pay table is Project Research Scientist III (Advt. 211) and Project Research Scientist II (Advt. 212). Candidates should check the official advertisement.

Project Research Scientist III (Advt. 211/2026)

For the ICMR project "MolOnco-DnT-CenTr: Translational Centre For Diagnostic And Therapeutic Technologies in Molecular Oncology", the role involves:

• Leading the development and optimization of U-bent fiber-optic biosensor platforms for sensitive and specific detection of DNA/RNA biomarkers associated with gastric cancer and other molecular oncology applications.
• Designing and optimizing bioassay strategies, including capture-probe functionalization, hybridization/sandwich assays, antibody–nanoparticle conjugation and signal amplification.
• Independently developing and validating DNA/RNA and antigen-based assays, with emphasis on sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility and robustness.
• Developing surface functionalization, biomolecule immobilization and stabilization strategies.
• Integrating bioassays with optical/plasmonic readout systems and developing multiplexed diagnostic platforms.
• Planning analytical and bioanalytical validation studies.
• Coordinating clinical sample testing and validation, and leading translation of laboratory-scale assays into prototype point-of-care diagnostic devices.
• Coordinating project staff, research fellows and students.
• Troubleshooting experimental, biochemical, optical and instrumentation challenges.
• Maintaining experimental records, datasets, SOPs and technical documentation, and ensuring project milestones and deliverables are achieved.
• Contributing to reports, publications, patents, proposals and technology-transfer activities, mentoring junior researchers, and collaborating with clinical, biological, engineering and translational research teams.

Project Research Scientist II (Advt. 212/2026)

For the ICMR project "MolOnco-DnT-CenTr: Translational Centre For Diagnostic And Therapeutic Technologies in Molecular Oncology", the role involves:

• Contributing to the design, development and validation of a plasmonic fiber optic biosensor for the detection of DNA biomarkers associated with gastric cancer.
• Strategic design and development of a U-bent fiber optic biosensor platform, including probe surface functionalization with capture oligonucleotides, conjugation of 5-methylcytosine antibodies with gold nanoparticles for plasmonic signal generation, and establishment of a hybrid sandwich assay for sensitive and specific detection of selected methylated DNA biomarkers.
• Assay development for given DNA/RNA or antigen targets, and stabilization of antibodies and oligonucleotides to achieve a minimum one-year shelf-life of point-of-care devices, while ensuring reliability and reproducibility of the assays.
• Optimization of biosensor parameters such as probe chemistry, conjugation strategies and signal amplification to maximize sensitivity and specificity, followed by translation of the optimized assay onto a multiplex detection platform for faster and higher-throughput analysis.
• Bioanalytical validation in clinical samples to establish reproducibility and robustness, as well as large-scale clinical sample analysis.
• Candidates having knowledge of PCR and molecular biology techniques will be preferred.

Project Research Scientist II (Advt. 216/2026)

For the ICMR project "Combating multidrug resistant Tuberculosis by differential diagnostics using a multiplex point-of-care nucleic acid biosensor platform", the position focuses on:

• Development and optimization of multiplex nucleic-acid-based assays for rapid and differential detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and drug-resistant tuberculosis.
• Design and optimization of molecular bioassays, nucleic acid extraction, PCR/RCA and related amplification strategies, biomarker/target selection, assay development, multiplexing, and integration with optical or other biosensor-based readout systems.
• Contributing to development and optimization of point-of-care diagnostic modules, including sample processing, assay integration and analytical validation.
• Independently planning experiments, troubleshooting technical challenges, analyzing and interpreting experimental data, and ensuring reliable and reproducible results.
• Coordinating project fellows and technical staff, maintaining research records, preparing reports, presentations, manuscripts and other project deliverables, and coordinating with clinical and collaborating institutions for sample collection and validation studies.

Project Technical Support III (Advt. 215/2026)

For the ICMR project "Combating multidrug resistant Tuberculosis by differential diagnostics using a multiplex point-of-care nucleic acid biosensor platform", the role involves:

• Supporting the development, fabrication, integration and testing of prototype diagnostic devices under the ICMR-funded project.
• Working closely with the project investigators and technical team to translate device concepts into functional prototypes for laboratory and field-level applications.
• Mechanical assembly, device fabrication, PCB development, electronics design and prototype integration, and assisting in designing and assembling mechanical components, enclosures, fixtures and device modules, ensuring proper dimensional accuracy and functional integration.
• Hands-on knowledge of PCB fabrication, soldering, wiring, circuit assembly and electronic component integration is expected.
• Supporting basic electronic circuit design, component selection, troubleshooting, testing and validation of prototype systems.
• Rapid prototyping, iterative device development, debugging, performance testing, and modification of hardware based on experimental requirements.
• Familiarity with CAD tools, PCB design software, microcontrollers, sensors, LEDs, photodetectors, connectors and basic instrumentation will be advantageous.
• The position requires good hands-on skills, problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently as well as in a multidisciplinary team.
• Maintaining technical documentation, assembly procedures, test records and prototype development reports.

Project Technical Support II (Advt. 214/2026)

For the ICMR project "MolOnco-DnT-CenTr: Translational Centre For Diagnostic And Therapeutic Technologies in Molecular Oncology", the role provides hands-on technical support for the development and validation of biosensing and molecular diagnostic technologies, including:

• Assisting in routine laboratory activities related to nucleic acid extraction, sample processing, PCR and molecular biology workflows, bioassay preparation and biomarker detection.
• Preparation and handling of biological samples, reagents and assay components; execution of DNA/RNA-based assays; preparation and characterization of biomolecular reagents; and maintenance of accurate experimental records and research data.
• Supporting the development and optimization of U-bent fiber-optic/plasmonic biosensor assays, including surface functionalization, oligonucleotide-based assay preparation, nanoparticle conjugation, assay optimization and optical signal measurement.
• Supporting clinical sample processing and bioanalytical validation, and assisting in compilation of experimental data, reports and project documentation.
• Candidates with hands-on experience in molecular biology, PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, bioassays, biosensors or biomedical technologies will be preferred.

Project Technical Support I (Advt. 217/2026)

For the ICMR project "Urine-based Non-invasive Tuberculosis Screening Biosensor – Scaling and Testing for Deployment", the role provides routine technical and laboratory assistance for probe fabrication and device testing, including:

• Assisting in the fabrication, preparation and handling of biosensor probes and related components according to established laboratory protocols.
• Preparation of materials, basic fabrication and assembly activities, cleaning and handling of components, and maintaining organized workspaces and laboratory materials.
• Supporting testing of fabricated probes and prototype devices, including preparation of test setups, operation of designated equipment under supervision, recording of measurements and compilation of experimental observations.
• Assisting Project Research Scientists and senior technical personnel in routine experiments, repeated measurements, troubleshooting and optimization activities.
• Maintaining laboratory records, organizing samples and fabricated components, maintaining inventory of consumables, and assisting with routine laboratory and project documentation.
• Following established laboratory safety, quality-control and standard operating procedures, and ensuring proper handling and storage of project materials.

How to Apply for IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026

Eligible candidates must register and apply online only. Hard copies of the application are not to be sent to the Institute.

1. Visit the IC&SR careers page: https://icandsr.iitm.ac.in/careers/current_openings.php.
2. Register with a correct and active e-mail address, as all correspondence will be made by e-mail only.
3. Check the advertisement number displayed (Advt. 211/2026, 212/2026, 214/2026, 215/2026, 216/2026 or 217/2026) and submit the application for the relevant position.
4. Fill a separate application for each post. If you wish to apply for more than one position under the same advertisement, select the multiple positions before submitting, because the system accepts a single application per advertisement for a registered login ID (e-mail).
5. Submit the application before 06.11.2026. The application cannot be edited or reverted once submitted.
6. After successful submission, take a print-out of the application form. It must be submitted when called for the test, and is required at document verification / test / interview.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Apply Online

Applications are accepted only through the online portal given in the table below. The system allows one application per advertisement per registered e-mail ID, and candidates should not apply twice for the same post. If multiple applications are received from a candidate for the same post, the candidature is liable to be rejected.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Important Instructions

1. All the positions are on purely contract basis.
2. Completion of the contract period will not confer any right for further extension, regularization or permanency at the Institute.
3. Candidates should apply online only through https://icandsr.iitm.ac.in/careers/current_openings.php, after checking the advertisement number displayed.
4. A separate application has to be filled for each post.
5. The system will accept a single application only with the registered login ID (e-mail) for an advertisement; select multiple positions, if applying for more than one, before submission.
6. The application cannot be edited or reverted once submitted.
7. Candidates should not attempt to apply twice for the same post; multiple applications for the same post may lead to rejection.
8. Candidates should follow the prescribed procedure for online application.
9. Candidates should give correct and active e-mail addresses, as all correspondence will be made by the Institute through e-mail only.
10. Candidates must ensure they fulfil all eligibility conditions. Admission to any stage of selection is purely provisional, and issue of a registration certificate / call letter does not imply that the candidature has been found eligible.
11. After online submission, a print-out of the application form must be obtained and submitted when called for test. It is required at document verification / test / interview. Hard copy is NOT to be sent to the Institute.
12. Candidates must be citizens of India (with the conditions for persons migrated from Pakistan and subjects of Nepal explained under Eligibility).
13. The prescribed qualifications are minimum; a higher qualification does not entitle a candidate to be called for interview.
14. Only relevant experience gained after the minimum qualifying degree will be considered. Minimum qualification and/or experience can be relaxed for exceptionally outstanding candidates.
15. Experience is relaxable at the Institute's discretion for SC/ST candidates, under the condition explained under Eligibility.
16. The Institute may restrict the number of candidates for written / skill test / interview and may reject any or all applications without assigning any reason.
17. Calling a candidate for test / interview conveys no assurance of recommendation, selection or acceptance of the conditions specified in the application.
18. Candidates will be short-listed on the basis of the information in their online applications. If any information or claim is found to be false at any stage, the candidature is liable to be rejected.
19. The Institute may verify antecedents or documents at any time, at appointment or during the tenure of service. If documents are fake, or the candidate has suppressed clandestine antecedents/background, the services are liable to be terminated.
20. In case of any inadvertent mistake in the selection process, detected at any stage even after the appointment letter is issued, the Institute may modify, withdraw or cancel any communication made to candidates.
21. Applicants working in any project at IIT Madras must apply through proper channel, or produce a No-Objection Certificate at document verification / test / interview. Candidates without NOC will not be permitted to appear for the test / interview.
22. Candidates may send testimonials from persons intimately acquainted with their work and character. If employed, testimonials should come from the most recent employer or immediate superior as referee.
23. The Institute has the right to decide the mode of screening and testing for short-listing and selection.
24. The Institute solely reserves the right not to fill any advertised position without assigning any reason.
25. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
26. No correspondence will be entertained regarding the conduct and result of the test / interview or the reasons for not being called for interview. Canvassing in any form will be a disqualification.
27. The crucial date for determining eligibility in every respect is the prescribed closing date for submission of online application.
28. The Institute strives to have a workforce that reflects gender balance, and women candidates are encouraged to apply.
29. Any corrigendum or clarification will be uploaded on the website, and no separate communication will be sent for this purpose.
30. Eligible applicants must register and apply online through https://icandsr.iitm.ac.in/careers/current_openings.php and submit the application.

IIT Madras Project Recruitment 2026 Important Links

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the organization conducting this recruitment?

The recruitment is being conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) for temporary positions under its Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering department.

What is the name of the post offered in this notification?

The position notified is Project Research Scientist III under advertisement number ICSR/PR/Advt.211/2026 for research-focused temporary job requirements.

How many total vacancies are available?

There are a total of 8 vacancies available for the Project Research Scientist III position across the department projects at IIT Madras.

What is the last date to apply online?

The last date to successfully register and submit the online application form is 6 November 2026 through the official recruitment portal.

What is the salary for Project Research Scientist III?

Selected candidates for the Project Research Scientist III post will receive a salary of INR 78,000 per month along with an additional 30% HRA.

What is the required educational qualification?

Applicants require a Post Graduate Degree, a Four Years Graduate degree or PG degree in Engineering / IT / CS, or a PhD with relevant post-qualification experience.

What is the upper age limit to apply?

The maximum age limit for applicants applying to the Project Research Scientist III post is set up to 45 years.

What is the mode of application?

Candidates must submit their applications exclusively through online mode by visiting the official career webpage provided by IIT Madras.

What is the selection process for this recruitment?

The selection process comprises initial shortlisting of candidates based on their qualifications and experience, followed by a written or skill test and interview.

Do candidates need to send a hard copy of the application?

No, candidates should not send the hard copy of the application to the Institute initially; they must keep a printout safely to submit when called for test or interview.