1. Introduction

For many science graduates in Assam, especially those from Physics and allied domains, the journey after post-graduation is uncertain. Central government exams are overcrowded, PhD admissions are limited, and private-sector research roles are rare in the North-East. In this context, project-based research positions at IIT Guwahati play a crucial role.

This Project Research Scientist - I (Non-Medical) opening at IIT Guwahati is not a mass recruitment. It is a highly specialised, single-position role meant for candidates who are already academically strong and research-oriented. For the right profile, this is a prestigious and well-paid opportunity within Assam itself, without the need to migrate to metro cities.

However, this post is not for everyone, and that clarity is important.

2. Key Details (Verified from Official Notification)

ParticularDetails
Recruiting InstituteIndian Institute of Technology Guwahati
DepartmentDepartment of Physics
ProjectICMR-funded research project
Post NameProject Research Scientist - I (Non-Medical)
Number of Vacancies01
Appointment Duration11 months
Monthly Salary₹56,000 + ₹11,200 HRA (Total ₹67,200)
Medical AllowanceNot provided
Maximum Age35 years
Selection ModeShortlisting + Online Interview
Application ModeOnline application + Email submission
Last Date31 January 2026 (5:00 PM)
Interview Date05 February 2026 (Online)
AccommodationNot available

3. Post-Wise Eligibility - What It Means in Reality

Essential Qualification (Strict):

  • Postgraduate degree (MSc / Integrated MSc) in:
    • Physics
    • Applied Physics
    • Photonics
    • Optics
  • Specialisation in optics and photonics is mandatory, not optional.

In practical terms:

  • A general MSc Physics candidate without lab exposure in optics/photonics will struggle to compete.
  • Your CV must reflect hands-on experimental work, not just theory papers.

Desirable (But Important):

  • PhD (completed or ongoing) in optics, photonics, quantum technologies, laser physics
  • Experience with:
    • Laser-based experiments
    • Spectroscopy
    • Instrumentation
    • LabView automation
    • Quantum measurements

👉 In reality, candidates with PhD exposure or strong MSc thesis work will dominate the shortlist.

4. Who Should Apply (Assam Context)

Strongly Recommended If You Are:

  • MSc Physics / Photonics graduate from IITs, NITs, CUETs, or reputed state universities
  • PhD scholar between admissions or after thesis submission
  • Assam-based candidate wanting high-end research exposure without leaving the state
  • Comfortable with English technical communication

You Should NOT Apply If:

  • You are preparing for Grade III / IV Assam govt jobs
  • You have only general physics background with no optics lab work
  • You expect a permanent government post (this is project-based, not regular service)
  • You are applying “just because salary is high”

This is a profile-based selection, not an exam-based one.

5. How to Apply - Guided Walkthrough (Avoid Common Mistakes)

Step-by-step:

  1. Visit the R&D recruitment portal of IIT Guwahati.
  2. Locate the project by title (do not search only by post name).
  3. Fill the online form carefully.
  4. Prepare one single PDF containing:
    • CV
    • All mark sheets
    • Degree certificates
    • Experience certificates (if any)
  5. Email this PDF to the project email ID before 31 Jan 2026, 5 PM.
  6. Subject line must exactly match the instruction in the notification.

Common Mistakes Assam Candidates Make:

  • Sending multiple PDFs instead of one
  • Missing subject line format
  • Uploading low-quality scanned documents
  • Assuming PRC / caste certificate is required (❌ not mentioned)
  • Using casual CVs instead of research-focused CVs

6. Salary, Growth & Career Outlook

  • ₹67,200 per month is a strong research salary by Assam standards.
  • This role enhances:
    • PhD admissions
    • Postdoctoral applications
    • International research exposure
  • Posting is campus-based at IIT Guwahati.
  • No service bond mentioned.
  • No promotion hierarchy (project role).

Think of this as a career accelerator, not a lifelong job.

7. Selection Reality & Competition Level

  • Vacancy: 1
  • Expected applicants: 40-100 nationwide
  • Real competition: 10-15 highly specialised profiles
  • Selection hinges on:
    • Alignment with project topic
    • Lab skills
    • Interview clarity, not rote knowledge

There is no written exam, which favours serious researchers.

8. Preparation Strategy (Interview-Focused)

If shortlisted:

  • Revise MSc optics & photonics concepts
  • Be clear about:
    • Your thesis work
    • Experimental techniques you used
    • Instruments you handled
  • Understand basics of:
    • Quantum sensing
    • Nanodiamonds (conceptual level)
  • Be honest about what you know and don’t know

Over-claiming skills is a common rejection reason.

9. Pros & Cons (Honest Assessment)

Pros

  • High salary for a research role
  • IIT Guwahati brand value
  • Assam-based posting
  • Strong academic exposure

Cons

  • Only 11 months duration
  • No accommodation
  • Very narrow eligibility
  • Not a permanent govt job

10. Applicant Checklist (Before You Apply)

  • MSc degree with optics/photonics specialisation
  • Research-focused CV
  • Single combined PDF
  • Correct email subject line
  • Availability for online interview on 5 Feb 2026
  • Real interest in experimental research

11. Final Advice

If you are a serious physics or photonics researcher from Assam, this opportunity is worth your time and effort. If your background does not strongly match the project requirements, it is better to skip and focus elsewhere.

Applying blindly wastes time-for you and for the selection committee.

Choose wisely, prepare honestly, and apply only if you truly fit.

FAQs (Common Assam Aspirant Doubts)

Q. Is Assam domicile required?
No. Not mentioned in the official notification.

Q. Is this a permanent IIT job?
No. It is a project-based contractual position.

Q. Is Assamese language mandatory?
No. Working language is English.

Q. Can final-year MSc students apply?
Not mentioned. Degree completion is expected. Verify directly with the project PI.

Q. Is there any written exam?
No. Selection is through shortlisting and online interview only.