Sarkari Sahayta - MANIT Bhopal JRF / Project Associate Recruitment 2026 — Green Hydrogen from Waste Biomass

Project overview — Green hydrogen using waste biomass

The advertised position is linked to a research project entitled “Green Hydrogen production employing waste biomass”, funded under the Core Research Grant (CRG) scheme of the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), DST, Government of India. The project is supervised by Dr. Gaurav Dwivedi (Principal Investigator, Assistant Professor, Department of Energy Science and Engineering) and Dr. T. N. Verma (Co‑PI, Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering), both at MANIT Bhopal.

The project area covers hydrogen energy, fuel cells, dark fermentation and biomass, aiming to develop sustainable hydrogen production routes from waste biomass feedstocks. The selected JRF / Project Associate will contribute to experimental work, analysis and possibly modelling in these domains over a total project duration of three years.

Position snapshot — Key facts

• Institute: Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
• Department: Energy Science and Engineering.
• Post: Junior Research Fellow (JRF) / Project Associate (single combined position).
• Project title: Green Hydrogen production employing waste biomass.
• Funding agency: SERB‑DST under CRG scheme, sanction order CRG/2023/007619 dated 03 May 2024.
• Number of positions: 01 (one).
• Project duration: 3 years.
• Initial appointment: 6 months, extendable up to 3 years based on satisfactory work and conduct.
• Last date to apply: 25 June 2026.
• Interview date: 29 June 2026 (offline/online mode).

Role and nature of appointment

The advertised post is for a single position that can be filled either as Junior Research Fellow (JRF) or Project Associate, depending on the candidate’s qualifications (such as NET/GATE status). The appointment is purely contractual and has been created solely for the execution of the specified research project; therefore, selected candidates will not be considered employees of MANIT and will not have claims to regularisation or other employment benefits.

The initial appointment is for six months, with extension possible up to a total of three years subject to satisfactory performance and conduct as assessed by the project investigators and the institute. The project involves experimental research on hydrogen energy and waste biomass, and the JRF / Project Associate is expected to carry out lab work, data analysis, and associated tasks as assigned.

Although the advertisement specifies that “PhD cannot be enrolled within the Institute”, another clause notes that selected candidates are eligible to register for a PhD degree at MANIT Bhopal as per institute norms, implying that PhD registration is possible following the institute’s official procedures. Applicants interested in PhD should clarify current rules with the PI and institute at the time of selection.

Essential educational qualifications

The advertisement provides three alternative qualification routes, covering both engineering and science backgrounds at bachelor’s and master’s level. In all cases, first‑class performance (60% or 6.5 CGPA on a 10‑point scale) is expected, except where a higher 65% threshold is specified.

• Route 1 — B.Tech./B.E. + M.Tech.: First class with not less than 60% aggregate / 6.5 CGPA (10‑point scale) in B.Tech./B.E. in any discipline, and first class with at least 60% aggregate / 6.5 CGPA in M.Tech. in relevant disciplines.
• Route 2 — B.Tech./B.E. only: B.Tech./B.E. in any discipline with at least 6.5/10 CGPA or 65% marks.
• Route 3 — Science background: First class with not less than 60% aggregate / 6.5 CGPA (10‑point scale) in M.Sc. in Chemistry, Biotechnology, Agriculture or allied disciplines.

In summary, candidates can be from engineering (B.E./B.Tech. with or without M.Tech.) or science backgrounds (relevant M.Sc.), but they must meet the minimum CGPA/percentage criteria in their qualifying degrees. Applicants should ensure that their marksheets clearly reflect these thresholds, as shortlisting is based on academic performance among other factors.

Age limit and relaxations

The maximum age limit for the JRF / Project Associate position is 35 years. This age limit is applied as on the closing date of applications, i.e., 25 June 2026.

Upper age relaxation of up to 5 years is available for candidates belonging to SC, ST, OBC, women and physically handicapped categories. Candidates claiming age relaxation should be prepared to submit valid category or disability certificates as applicable, following Government of India norms and institute requirements.

Desirable qualifications and project domain

The advertisement lists NET/GATE qualification as a desirable requirement, noting that terms and conditions apply for candidates who are non‑GATE / non‑NET, particularly in relation to emoluments. Candidates with valid NET or GATE scores will typically be eligible for the higher emoluments associated with the JRF category under SERB norms, while others may be appointed as Project Associate with different pay.

The project area spans hydrogen energy, fuel cells, dark fermentation and biomass, indicating that the work may involve biochemical conversion processes, catalyst development, reactor design and hydrogen utilisation technologies. Candidates who have prior exposure to renewable energy, bioenergy, fuel cell technology, biochemical engineering or related project work should highlight this in their CV and application form.

Emoluments — Salary for JRF and Project Associate

Pay differs depending on whether the candidate is appointed as a JRF (usually NET/GATE qualified) or as a Project Associate (non‑GATE / non‑NET, subject to applicable T&C). In both cases, House Rent Allowance (HRA) at 16% is additionally provided.

• Junior Research Fellow (JRF): ₹37,000 per month (Thirty‑Seven Thousand Only) + 16% HRA.
• Project Associate: ₹25,000 per month (Twenty‑Five Thousand Only) + 16% HRA (for non‑GATE / non‑NET as per terms and conditions).

Emolument level is typically determined at the time of selection based on whether the candidate meets national fellowship criteria like NET or GATE and on SERB‑DST rules in force. Candidates should carry original NET/GATE certificates and scorecards to the interview if claiming JRF‑level emoluments.

Selection procedure, interview date and mode

The selection process is based on an Offline/Online interview, scheduled for 29 June 2026. The advertisement specifies that the appointment is purely on contract basis and that the post has been created only for execution of the research project.

Candidates may be called for interview either in person at MANIT Bhopal or online via a suitable platform, depending on circumstances and instructions from the department. The exact mode (offline or online) and schedule details will be communicated by email to shortlisted candidates, making it essential to provide a valid and regularly checked email address in the application.

No TA/DA will be paid for appearing in the interview, whether in offline or online mode. Thus, candidates must make their own travel and accommodation arrangements if asked to attend in person.

Other benefits — PhD registration possibility

One of the key attractions of this position is the possibility to register for a PhD degree at MANIT Bhopal. The advertisement states that selected candidates are eligible to register for a PhD as per the institute’s norms. This is subject to fulfilling the institute’s admission criteria and procedures for doctoral programmes in the relevant discipline.

At the same time, the table notes that “PhD cannot be enrolled within the Institute”, which may reflect constraints during the project period or specific funding conditions. Prospective applicants interested in a PhD pathway should discuss the current policy with the PI and department during or after selection to understand how project work and PhD registration can be aligned.

Application process — Step‑by‑step

Applications must be submitted using the prescribed application form available on the institute website, accompanied by a resume and scanned copies of certificates. The process includes both email submission of an advance copy and physical document verification at the time of interview (for in‑person candidates).

• Step 1 — Download form: Visit the MANIT website www.manit.ac.in and navigate to the appropriate advertisement under the Department of Energy Science and Engineering to download the application form.
• Step 2 — Fill application: Complete the form carefully, including personal details, education, project title, experience, publications and GATE/NET information where applicable.
• Step 3 — Prepare documents: Attach attested photocopies of relevant certificates/documents from Class 10 onwards as listed in the advertisement.
• Step 4 — Email advance copy: Email the filled application form, resume and attested copies of certificates as a combined set to gauravdwivedi@manit.ac.in on or before 25 June 2026, using the subject: “Application for the post of Junior Research Fellow (JRF)/ Project Associate in the project ‘Green Hydrogen production employing waste biomass’”.
• Step 5 — Appear for interview: Candidates appearing in person must bring a print‑out of the application form along with original and self‑attested copies of all supporting documents on the day of the interview.

Candidates will be informed by email about the written or interview schedule, so they must ensure that correct and active email IDs are provided in the application. Failure to follow the prescribed format or to send advance copies by the deadline can lead to rejection.

Application form — Key fields you must fill

The application format attached to the advertisement is detailed and must be filled accurately. It collects personal information, academic background, experience and a short self‑assessment of suitability for the position.

Main sections of the form include:

• Personal details: Name, address, date of birth, gender, mother’s name, father’s/husband’s name, category and contact details (email address and mobile number).
• Educational qualifications: Table listing examinations passed (10th, 12th/Diploma, B.E./B.Tech./B.Sc., M.E./M.Tech./M.Sc.), along with board/university, subject, year of passing, percentage/CGPA and division/class.
• Undergraduate project details: Title and details of B.E./B.Tech./B.Sc. project (up to 200 words).
• Professional experience: Organisation, post held, period, pay drawn and nature of duties, if any prior work experience exists.
• Publications: Space to list any research publications.
• Suitability statement: A question asking “Why do you feel that you are the best candidate for this position?” where candidates can briefly explain their fit.
• GATE/NET details: Information on exam qualification and scores, if applicable.

The form concludes with a declaration in which the applicant certifies that information provided is correct and acknowledges that incorrect information may lead to disqualification. A self‑attested recent photograph must be affixed in the space provided.

Essential documents to attach with the application

The advertisement includes a clear list of documents that must accompany the application form. Attested photocopies of these documents should be emailed as part of the advance copy and produced as originals plus self‑attested photocopies at the interview.

• Proof of date of birth (such as birth certificate or 10th certificate).
• ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN card, student ID or any other identity card issued by Government of India).
• 10th class marksheet.
• 12th class marksheet.
• Graduation (B.E./B.Tech./B.Sc.) marksheets for all semesters.
• Post‑graduation (M.E./M.Tech./M.Sc.) marksheets for all semesters, if applicable.
• GATE score card / NET qualified certificate & score card, if applicable.
• EWS/OBC/SC/ST/PWD certificate, if applicable.
• Experience certificate(s), if any.
• Publication details, if any.
• Any other relevant document supporting claims made in the application.

Providing a complete set of documents helps avoid delays or rejections during scrutiny. Candidates should label and organise their attachments clearly when sending them via email to the PI.

Terms and conditions — Important points

The terms and conditions highlight the responsibilities of the applicant and the rights of the institute in managing the recruitment process. These clauses should be read carefully before applying.

• Candidates must use the prescribed application format from the institute website and email advance copies with resume and attested certificates from 10th standard onwards to gauravdwivedi@manit.ac.in by 25 June 2026.
• Candidates appearing in person must bring printed applications and original plus self‑attested copies of supporting documents to the interview.
• No TA/DA will be paid for appearing in the interview, regardless of mode.
• Candidates will be informed about written/interview date by email, and therefore they must provide valid email IDs in their applications.
• Applicants are responsible for the authenticity of information, documents and photographs; false information can lead to disqualification.
• The institute reserves the right to accept applications at any time and to consider candidates of exceptional credentials even without formal applications.
• Qualifications and experience may be relaxed for otherwise exceptional candidates at the institute’s discretion.
• Merely possessing the prescribed qualifications does not guarantee an interview call.

Contact information — Project investigators

For additional details beyond the advertisement, candidates are advised to contact the Principal Investigator directly. Queries can be technical (about the project domain) or procedural (about application or interview).

• Project Investigator (PI): Dr. Gaurav Dwivedi, Assistant Professor, Department of Energy Science & Engineering, MANIT Bhopal.
• Email: gauravdwivedi@manit.ac.in.
• Mobile: 9872193532.
• Co‑PI: Dr. T. N. Verma, Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering Department, MANIT Bhopal.

When writing to the PI, applicants should clearly state that the communication concerns the JRF / Project Associate position in the “Green Hydrogen production employing waste biomass” project and mention the advertisement details for clarity. Professional and concise emails are more likely to receive timely responses.

Application checklist — Before you send your email

Given the fixed last date and detailed documentation requirements, candidates should run through a checklist to ensure a complete, error‑free application. Doing so reduces chances of rejection at the scrutiny stage and helps present a professional profile.

• Confirm that you satisfy age limit (≤35 years) and applicable relaxation criteria.
• Verify that your qualifying degrees and percentages/CGPAs meet at least one of the specified essential qualification routes.
• Fill the application form completely, including the “Why are you the best candidate?” section and GATE/NET details if applicable.
• Prepare a concise resume focusing on energy, biomass, hydrogen, fuel cell or related experience, if any.
• Scan and self‑attest all required certificates from Class 10 onwards, including ID proof and category certificates.
• Attach GATE/NET scorecards and publication details if you wish to claim these credentials.
• Combine or clearly label attachments when emailing them to gauravdwivedi@manit.ac.in on or before 25 June 2026.
• Retain copies of the sent email and attachments, and print the application form for use at the interview.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What position is advertised and under which project?

MANIT Bhopal is advertising one post of Junior Research Fellow (JRF) / Project Associate in the SERB‑DST CRG project “Green Hydrogen production employing waste biomass” in the Department of Energy Science and Engineering.

What are the essential educational qualifications for this JRF / Project Associate post?

Candidates must have either B.Tech./B.E. (any discipline) and M.Tech. (relevant) both with at least 60%/6.5 CGPA; or B.Tech./B.E. with at least 6.5/10 CGPA or 65% marks; or M.Sc. in Chemistry/Biotechnology/Agriculture/allied disciplines with at least 60%/6.5 CGPA.

What is the age limit and are there any relaxations?

The upper age limit is 35 years, with relaxation of up to 5 years for SC, ST, OBC, women and physically handicapped candidates as per Government of India rules.

What is the salary for JRF and for Project Associate?

JRFs receive ₹37,000 per month plus 16% HRA, whereas Project Associates (non‑GATE/NET, subject to terms) receive ₹25,000 per month plus 16% HRA.

Is NET or GATE qualification compulsory?

NET/GATE is listed as desirable, not essential. However, emoluments and designation (JRF vs Project Associate) depend on whether the candidate is NET/GATE qualified, with non‑GATE/NET candidates covered by separate terms and conditions.

What is the last date to apply and how do I submit my application?

The last date is 25 June 2026. Candidates must fill the prescribed application form from the MANIT website, attach a resume and attested photocopies of certificates from 10th standard onwards, and email these as an advance copy to gauravdwivedi@manit.ac.in with the specified subject line.

When will the interview be held and in what mode?

The interview is scheduled for 29 June 2026 and will be conducted in offline or online mode. Exact details and instructions will be communicated to candidates by email.

Will I receive TA/DA for attending the interview?

No. The advertisement clearly states that no TA/DA will be paid for appearing in the interview. Candidates must bear their own travel and accommodation expenses if attending in person.

Can I register for a PhD at MANIT while working on this project?

The advertisement notes that selected candidates are eligible to register for a PhD degree at MANIT Bhopal as per institute norms, although one table entry mentions that PhD cannot be enrolled within the Institute. Candidates should clarify the current PhD registration policy with the PI and institute at the time of selection.

Whom should I contact for more information about the project or application?

You should contact the Project Investigator, Dr. Gaurav Dwivedi, Assistant Professor, Department of Energy Science & Engineering, MANIT Bhopal, via email at gauravdwivedi@manit.ac.in or by mobile at 9872193532.