📋 Complete Advertisement & Guidelines
Indian Institute of Astrophysics Research Trainee (Observations) Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online at iiap.res.in
- Recruiting Body: Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Autonomous Institution under Department of Science & Technology, Government of India
- Advertisement No.: IIA/14/2026-27, dated 10.11.2026
- Total Posts: One (01)
- Post Name: Research Trainee (Observations)
- Employment Nature: Contractual / Temporary (one year, extendable annually up to five years)
- Application Mode: Online Application only at https://www.iiap.res.in/iia_jobs/
- Application Last Date: 09 December 2026, 17:30 hours
- Place of Posting: Vainu Bappu Observatory (VBO), Kavalur, Tamil Nadu
- Application Fee: Not specified in the official notification
Post-Wise Vacancy & Pay Scale
| Post Designation | Vacancies | Age Limit | Monthly Remuneration (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Trainee (Observations) | 1 | 26 years | Rs. 30,000 (Consolidated) + annual increment of Rs. 2,500 |
The appointment is purely temporary on a contract basis for an initial period of one year, extendable annually for four more years (maximum five years of traineeship), subject to satisfactory performance and project requirements assessed annually. An annual increment of Rs. 2,500 will be granted based on satisfactory performance.
Eligibility Criteria & Educational Qualification
- Research Trainee (Observations):
- M.Sc in Physics / Astrophysics with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks from a recognized University / Institution.
- Candidates with work experience in astronomical observations, telescopes, or data analysis will be given preference. Proof of such experience must be enclosed while applying.
- Mere possession of the prescribed minimum qualifications does not entitle a candidate to be called for interview.
- Age Limit: 26 years as on 09 December 2026 (closing date for receipt of applications).
- Age Relaxation: Applicable to SC, ST, OBC, and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) candidates as per Government of India norms. Number of years not specified in the notification.
- Nationality: Indian Nationals only.
- Physical Fitness: Candidate must be fit enough and willing to work full night (up to 12 hours) for astronomical observations.
Selection Process & Screening Clause
The selection process will involve the following stages:
- Written Test (Conditional): If the number of applications is large and it is not convenient or possible to interview all candidates, IIA reserves the right to conduct a written test to shortlist candidates for interview. The test pattern and marks will be notified separately.
- Interview: Candidates shortlisted based on qualifications, experience, and/or written test performance will be called for interview. The interview date will be announced separately.
Screening Clause: IIA reserves the right to limit the number of candidates called for interview based on qualifications and experience higher than the minimum prescribed, even without a written test.
TA/DA: No TA/DA will be paid to candidates for appearing in the written test or interview.
Required Documents & Instructions for Candidates
- Scanned Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Date of Birth Proof (Matriculation Certificate / Birth Certificate)
- Educational Qualification Certificates and Mark Sheets
- Experience Certificates / Proof of Work Experience (if applicable)
- Valid Category / Caste Certificate (if claiming age relaxation) in prescribed format
- Two recent passport-size photographs and Valid Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar / Voter ID / PAN)
Important Instructions:
- The selected candidate will be posted to work at VBO, Kavalur, and is liable to be posted anywhere in India as per the requirement of the Institute.
- The Institute reserves the right to cancel the entire recruitment process at any time without assigning reasons.
- Canvassing in any form will be treated as a disqualification.
- Misrepresentation or falsification of facts at any stage will result in cancellation of candidature.
- The appointment carries no privileges or benefits of regular employment; no claim for regular employment in the Institute will be entertained.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the last date to apply for IIA Research Trainee (Observations) Recruitment 2026?
The last date for receipt of completed online applications is 09 December 2026, up to 17:30 hours. Applications must be submitted exclusively through the online portal at https://www.iiap.res.in/iia_jobs/.
What is the venue and mode of application for IIA Research Trainee Recruitment?
This is an online application recruitment. There is no walk-in interview. The application must be submitted online at https://www.iiap.res.in/iia_jobs/. The selected candidate will be posted at Vainu Bappu Observatory (VBO), Kavalur, Tamil Nadu.
What is the application fee for IIA Research Trainee (Observations) 2026?
The official notification (Advt. No. IIA/14/2026-27) does not specify any application fee. Candidates should refer to the official notification PDF for confirmation.
Is the IIA Research Trainee position a permanent government job?
No. The Research Trainee (Observations) post at IIA is a purely temporary and contractual appointment. The initial contract is for one year, extendable annually up to a maximum of five years subject to satisfactory performance and project requirements. The appointment does not entitle the candidate to any privileges or benefits of regular government employment.
What is the salary structure for IIA Research Trainee (Observations)?
The consolidated monthly remuneration is Rs. 30,000, inclusive of all allowances. An annual increment of Rs. 2,500 will be provided based on satisfactory performance each year during the contract period.
What is the age limit and qualification required for IIA Research Trainee (Observations)?
The upper age limit is 26 years as on 09 December 2026. The required qualification is M.Sc in Physics / Astrophysics with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks from a recognized University or Institution. Age relaxation is applicable for SC, ST, OBC, and PwD candidates as per Government of India norms.