VECC Junior Research Fellowship Recruitment 2026: Overview

The Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC), Kolkata, under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), has officially announced the recruitment for 9 Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) for the 2026 academic cycle. This is an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers to pursue their Ph.D. at the Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI) while working in a premier government research environment.

Key Highlights

• Organization: Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC), DAE
• Total Fellowships: 09
• Application Mode: Email Only
• Ph.D. Integration: Eligible for HBNI registration

Important Dates

Research Areas

The fellowships are available in several frontier domains of Physical Sciences, including:

• Experimental & Theoretical Nuclear Physics
• Astrophysics & Nuclear Astrophysics
• Accelerator Physics
• Material Science
• High Energy Physics
• Condensed Matter Theory & Applied Physics

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must ensure they meet the following benchmarks before applying:

• Academic Qualification: M.Sc. in Physics (min 55%) OR 5-Year Integrated M.Sc./B.S.-M.S. (Physics) OR 4-Year B.S. (Physics) with 75% aggregate.
• National Level Exam: Must hold a valid score in UGC-CSIR-NET (JRF), JEST, or GATE (Physics).
• Age Limit: Must be under 28 years as of 2026-05-31.

Note: Age relaxation is provided as per Govt. of India rules: 3 years for OBC, 5 years for SC/ST, and 10 years for PwBD.

Selection Process

The selection is based on a two-tier process:

1. Screening: Initial shortlisting based on academic performance and national exam scores.
2. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an offline interview at the VECC facility in Kolkata.

How to Apply

1. Download the official application form from the VECC website.
2. Fill in your research interests and academic credentials accurately.
3. Scan all necessary documents (Mark sheets, GATE/NET scorecards, DOB proof).
4. Email the complete application packet to the official email address provided in the notification before 2026-05-31.

FAQs

1. Is there any application fee? No, there is no application fee for this recruitment.
2. Can I apply if I am in my final year? Yes, candidates awaiting results can apply if they meet the percentage requirements up to the previous semester.
3. Where will the interview take place? Interviews will be conducted offline at the VECC Kolkata premises.
4. What is the fellowship amount? As per DAE guidelines, it ranges from ₹37,000 to ₹42,000 per month plus HRA.
5. Is this a permanent job? No, this is a research fellowship program for pursuing a Ph.D.