Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi has announced openings for Junior Research Fellow (JRF), Research Assistant (RA), Project Associate, and Project Assistant

Available Positions

  • School of Life Sciences JRF posts in projects on genetics, genome editing, plant biology, and sleep research.
  • Centre for English Studies RA post in ICSSR project on caste subcategorisation.
  • School of Environmental Sciences Project Assistant post in CO2 sequestration research.
  • Special Centre for Molecular Medicine JRF and Senior Project Associate posts in plant biotechnology and molecular medicine projects.
  • School of Language, Literature & Culture Studies RA post in ICSSR project on Indian family system and Sanskrit studies.

Eligibility

  • JRF: Masters degree in Life Sciences/Biotech/Zoology/Biochemistry/Bioinformatics + CSIR/UGC NET or equivalent.
  • RA: Postgraduate in Social Science/Economics (minimum 55%) + NET/M.Phil./Ph.D.
  • Project Associate: Masters degree in Life Sciences/Genetics/Biochemistry/Biotech (minimum 60%).
  • Project Assistant: Masters degree or 3year diploma in Environmental Chemistry/Chemistry.

Salary

  • JRF: 37,000 + HRA
  • RA: 37,000 per month
  • Project AssociateII: 42,000 + HRA
  • Project Assistant: 27,000 + 30% HRA

Important Dates

  • 25 July 2026 RA (Sanskrit Project)
  • 30 July 2026 JRF (Life Sciences, Mitochondrial Project)
  • 31 July 2026 JRF (Sleep Research Project)
  • 05 August 2026 JRF (Plant Genome Editing Project)
  • 07 August 2026 RA (Gig Workers Project) & Project Assistant (Environmental Sciences)
  • 09 August 2026 RA (Scheduled Castes Project)

Note: You can apply for online post before July 30, 2026.

Quick Apply Guide

Step 1: Read the Notice

Check the post you want to apply for (JRF, RA, Project Assistant, etc.). Note the last date carefully.

Step 2: Prepare Your CV

Make a clear CV with your name, date of birth, address, email, phone number, education, and research experience.

Step 3: Write a Cover Letter

Write a short letter about why you are fit for the project. Mention your skills and interest in the research area.

Step 4: Send by Email

Email your CV and cover letter to the project directors email address given in the notice. Write the project name and post in the subject line.

Step 5: Keep Documents Ready

Keep all original certificates, mark sheets, ID proof, and photos ready. You will need them at the interview.

Important Notes

  • Only shortlisted candidates will be called for interview.
  • Interviews may be held online (Google Meet) or offline at JNU.
  • No TA/DA will be given for attending interviews.
  • All original documents must be shown at the time of interview.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1 What is JRF?

JRF means Junior Research Fellow. It is a research job for students who have finished their Masters degree and passed exams like CSIR/UGC NET.

How can I apply?

You must send your CV and cover letter to the email address given in the notice. Write your name, date of birth, address, email, phone number, education, and research experience.

What is the last date to apply?

Each post has a different last date. For example, some posts close on 25 July 2026, others on 30 July 2026, 31 July 2026, 5 August 2026, 7 August 2026, or 9 August 2026.

Will I get a call letter by post?

No. You will get information only by email or on the JNU website.

What documents should I carry for the interview?

Bring your original certificates, mark sheets, ID proof, category certificate (if any), and two sets of selfattested copies. Also carry your CV and photographs.

Is there any age limit?

Yes. Most JRF posts have an age limit of 28 years. Some posts allow relaxation for SC/ST/OBC candidates as per government rules.

Do I need NET qualification?

Yes, for most JRF posts you must have CSIR/UGC NET or an equivalent exam. For some Project Assistant posts, NET is not compulsory.

Will I get travel money (TA/DA) for the interview?

No. JNU does not pay TA/DA for attending interviews.

How long is the job?

These jobs are temporary. Most are for 6 months to 1 year, but they can be extended if the project continues.

What is the salary?

Salary depends on the post. JRF usually gets 37,000 + HRA. Project Associate gets 42,000 + HRA. Project Assistant gets 27,000 + HRA.

Dos and Donts

Dos

  • Read the notice carefully and note the last date.
  • Prepare a neat CV with all details (name, date of birth, address, email, phone, education, research experience).
  • Write a short cover letter explaining why you are fit for the post.
  • Send your CV and cover letter to the correct email address mentioned in the notice.
  • Keep all original certificates and documents ready for the interview.
  • Dress in simple formal clothes for the interview.
  • Reach the interview on time (or join Google Meet on time).
  • Speak clearly and politely during the interview.

Donts

  • Do not miss the deadline. Late applications are not accepted.
  • Do not send incomplete CVs or applications without documents.
  • Do not forget to mention the project name and post in the email subject line.
  • Do not carry casual clothes or look unprepared at the interview.
  • Do not bring mobile phones or gadgets inside the interview hall.
  • Do not give wrong information in your CV or cover letter.
  • Do not be rude or overconfident during the interview.

Official Source: JNU Recruitment Notices 2026 (Project Positions).