IIT Kharagpur Recruitment 2026 – Research Associate Position in AI‑Enabled Geological and Mining Systems
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur has announced an exciting opportunity for the post of Research Associate (RA) under the Vikram Sodhi Centre of Excellence for AI‑Enabled Geological and Mining Systems (EAM). This project is sponsored by Sun Valley Investments, Zug, Switzerland, and offers a unique chance to work on cutting‑edge research integrating artificial intelligence with geological and mining applications.
Project Overview and Sponsorship Details
- Project Title: Vikram Sodhi CoE for AI‑Enabled Geological and Mining Systems (EAM)
- Sponsor: IIT Kharagpur in collaboration with Sun Valley Investments, Switzerland
- Department: Vikram Sodhi Centre of Excellence for AI‑Enabled Geological and Mining Systems
- Principal Investigator (PI): Basanta Kumar Prusty
- Reference No.: IIT/SRIC/R/EAM/2026/102
- Reference Date: 07 August 2026
Position Details and Compensation Structure
- Position: Research Associate (RA)
- Consolidated Compensation: Up to ₹67,000 per month (depending on qualification and experience)
- Tenure: 24 months or until project termination, whichever is earlier
- Application Fees: NIL
Essential Qualifications and Relevant Experience Required
Candidates should possess a Ph.D. in one of the following disciplines: Mining Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Information Technology, Geology, or Applied Geology. Applicants must have at least two research papers published as First Author in Science Citation Indexed (SCI) journals in relevant domains such as:
- Mine Planning and Automation
- Orebody Intelligence and Ore Geology
- Critical Minerals and Rare Earth Elements (REEs)
- Integrated Gold Exploration Targeting Systems
- Automated Underground Mine Design
- Integrated Planning to Production Systems
- Hyperspectral Core Scanning and Quantitative Mineralogy
Desirable Criteria and Age Limit for Applicants
- Desirable Criteria: Strong research background in AI‑based geological modeling and mining automation.
- Age Limit: 35 years (relaxation applicable as per sponsor agency rules).
Key Responsibilities and Research Objectives
- Conduct advanced research in AI‑enabled geological and mining systems.
- Develop intelligent models for orebody prediction and mine automation.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams for data analysis and system integration.
- Publish high‑impact research papers and contribute to innovation in mining technology.
Important Dates and Application Process
- Last Date to Apply: 31 August 2026
- Interested candidates can apply online through the official IIT Kharagpur recruitment portal https://www.iitkgp.ac.in.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About IIT Kharagpur Research Associate Recruitment 2026
What is the tenure of the Research Associate position?
The tenure is 24 months or until the termination of the project, whichever is earlier.
Is there any application fee?
No, there is no application fee for this position.
What is the maximum salary offered?
The consolidated compensation is up to ₹67,000 per month, depending on qualifications and experience.
What are the key research areas?
AI‑enabled geological modeling, mine automation, orebody intelligence, and hyperspectral core scanning.
Final Note for Applicants
This recruitment by IIT Kharagpur offers a prestigious opportunity for researchers to contribute to the advancement of AI‑driven geological and mining technologies. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline and be part of a pioneering initiative shaping the future of intelligent mining systems.
