IISER Kolkata Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online

The Department of Biological Sciences at IISER Kolkata has invited applications for one Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position on a dengue virus project, paying Rs. 37,000 per month (consolidated; no HRA) for a one-year tenure. Applicants need an MSc/M.Tech./equivalent degree awarded in 2024 or later and a valid GATE score or NET Category 2 qualification. A CV and supporting details must be emailed to [email protected] so that they are received by 22 November 2026; the in-person interview is on 25 November 2026 at 10:00 AM.

IISER Kolkata Junior Research Fellow (JRF) at a Glance

The official notification does not specify the age limit or the application fee.

About IISER Kolkata JRF Project

The post sits in the Department of Biological Sciences (DBS) of the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata. The Principal Investigator is Dr. Sumit Sen Santara of the department.

The notice describes the research area as follows: the project will investigate the role of a DNA adaptor in controlling dengue virus infection, using an animal model and cell culture-based validation approaches. It will also examine genomic changes in lymphocyte populations associated with dengue infection.

Who Can Apply

The notice lists three essential criteria for the single JRF position.

Applicants with an interest in the research area are encouraged to apply. Prior research experience is not mandatory.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience (Optional)

• Hands-on experience with animal handling and in vivo infection studies, particularly measurement of viral load/viral response and associated immunological readouts. Relevant animal ethics and biosafety training would be an advantage.
• Experience analyzing RNA-seq and/or scRNA-seq datasets, including QC, alignment, quantification, differential gene expression and pathway enrichment, using bioinformatics pipelines, R/Python for data analysis and visualization, and ideally Linux/HPC environments.
• Research experience, careful experimental practice and a strong interest in host–virus interactions.

The minimum qualification and/or experience requirements may be relaxed for candidates with outstanding credentials, as per applicable rules. Candidates should check the official notification for the full eligibility wording.

Pay and Tenure

The remuneration is Rs. 37,000 per month, consolidated, with no HRA. The tenure is one year and may be extended based on research progress and performance, subject to availability of project funds. The selected candidate may be terminated with appropriate notice before the tenure ends if performance is found to be unsatisfactory.

How to Apply for IISER Kolkata Junior Research Fellow (JRF)

Applications are made by email. The notice asks for the following to be sent to Dr. Sumit Sen Santara, Department of Biological Sciences, IISER Kolkata, at [email protected].

1. Prepare a detailed CV.
2. Write a brief statement describing your research experience and relevant skills.
3. Attach copies or details of your GATE score or NET Category 2 qualification.
4. Email all of these to [email protected] so that the application is received by 22 November 2026.

The notice does not give an email subject line or a prescribed application form.

Selection and Interview

Shortlisted candidates will be informed by email by 23 November 2026. The interview is offline, in person, on 25 November 2026 at 10:00 AM. The venue is AAC Building, Ground Floor, IISER Kolkata, Mohanpur 741246. The decision of the selection committee will be final.

Documents to Bring to the Interview

• Two sealed recommendation letters from teachers and/or academic mentors.
• Self-attested copies of degree certificates and mark sheets, along with the originals.
• Self-attested copies of photo ID.
• Proof of a valid GATE score or NET Category 2 qualification.
• Any other relevant documents supporting research experience and qualifications.

Important Dates

Important Instructions

• No TA/DA will be provided for attending the interview.
• The selected candidate may be terminated with appropriate notice before completion of the tenure if performance is unsatisfactory.
• Extension beyond one year depends on research progress, performance and availability of project funds.
• Contact for queries: Dr. Sumit Sen Santara, Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences, IISER Kolkata, Mohanpur 741246, email [email protected].

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