Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT), Nagpur has just released the official notification for a single vacancy of Project Associate – I in the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering. The post is funded by the Ministry of Mines for a cutting‑edge research project on “Design and development of Al‑alloy anode material and a prototype Aluminium‑Air battery.” Interested engineers and science post‑graduates must submit their applications before 18 February 2026.
Recruitment Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Department/Board | Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, VNIT Nagpur |
| Post Name | Project Associate – I |
| Exam/Selection Name | Direct Recruitment (Screening → Written Test → Interview) |
| Total Vacancy | 01 (One) |
| Category | Job (Research‑Oriented) |
| Application Mode | Offline – Email submission of PDF |
| State | Maharashtra |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | Available Now |
| Application Start Date | Available Now |
| Last Date to Apply | 18 February 2026 |
| Written Test / Interview | To be communicated via email to shortlisted candidates |
| Admit Card Release | N/A |
| Result / Offer Letter | To be communicated after interview |
Application Fee details
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | Not Mentioned |
| SC / ST / PH | Not Mentioned |
| Payment Mode | N/A – No fee stated in the official notification |
Vacancy & Eligibility Criteria
- Age Limit: Not explicitly stated in the notification. Candidates should refer to the official application PDF for any age ceiling that may follow DST/University norms.
- Educational Qualification: Full‑time B.E./B.Tech. in Metallurgy, Mechanical, Chemical or M.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry or any allied discipline from a recognized university/institute, with a solid academic record and good experimental/analytical abilities.
| Post Name | Total Posts | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Project Associate – I | 01 | B.E./B.Tech. (Metallurgy/Mechanical/Chemical) or M.Sc. (Physics/Chemistry/Allied) with good academic standing |
Salary & Allowances
- GATE/NET qualified candidates: ₹ 37,000 per month (consolidated).
- Non‑GATE/NET candidates: ₹ 30,000 per month + HRA (House Rent Allowance).
Ph.D. Opportunity
The selected associate may register for a regular Ph.D. programme at VNIT, Nagpur, provided they satisfy the institute’s Ph.D. eligibility criteria. This pathway enables a seamless transition from a research associate role to a full‑time doctoral scholar.
How to Apply?
Follow these precise steps to ensure your application reaches the Principal Investigator on time:
- Visit the official VNIT portal: https://vnit.ac.in.
- Navigate to “Recruitment” or “Latest News” and locate the notification titled “Project Associate – I (MoM project) – Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering.”
- Download the prescribed application format (PDF).
- Fill in all required fields – personal details, academic qualifications, GATE/NET scores (if any), and work experience (if applicable).
- Prepare enclosures in a single PDF file:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (chronological)
- Scanned copies of all degree certificates & mark sheets
- GATE/NET Scorecard (if you possess one)
- Any additional certificates that support your research aptitude
- Compose an email to the Principal Investigator: amrutagasti@mme.vnit.ac.in.
- Subject line:
Application for the Post of Project Associate - I (MoM project) in the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering - Attachment: The single PDF prepared in step 5.
- Subject line:
- Send the email before 23:59 hrs on 18 February 2026. Incomplete or late submissions will be rejected automatically.
Tip: Keep a copy of the sent email (including the PDF) and a screenshot of the “Sent” folder as proof of submission.
Important Links
| Link Name | Direct Link |
|---|---|
| Apply via Email | mailto:amrutagasti@mme.vnit.ac.in |
| Notification in web page | Click Here – VNIT Notification |
| Official VNIT Website | https://vnit.ac.in |
| Join WhatsApp Group (Updates) | Join Now |
| Join Telegram Channel (Live Alerts) | Join Now |
Conclusion
VNIT Nagpur’s Project Associate – I position offers a rare blend of research exposure, competitive remuneration, and a fast‑track route to a Ph.D. If you meet the academic criteria, prepare a flawless PDF application and email it before 18 Feb 2026. Always double‑check the official notification for any updates or hidden clauses.
FAQs.
Q1. Who can apply for the Project Associate – I position at VNIT?
Ans: Candidates holding a full‑time B.E./B.Tech. in Metallurgy, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, or an M.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry or related fields, with a strong academic record, are eligible. GATE/NET qualification is preferred but not mandatory.
Q2. Is there any application fee for this recruitment?
Ans: The official notification does not mention any fee. Applicants should follow the PDF instructions and avoid paying any unofficial charges.
Q3. What is the selection procedure after I submit my application?
Ans: After the screening of applications, shortlisted candidates may be called for a written test followed by an interview (in‑person or hybrid). The final decision rests with the Director of VNIT.
Q4. Can I pursue a Ph.D. while working as a Project Associate?
Ans: Yes. The selected associate is allowed to register for a regular Ph.D. program at VNIT, provided they fulfil the institute’s Ph.D. eligibility norms.
Q5. How will I know if I am shortlisted for the written test or interview?
Ans: Shortlisted candidates will receive an official email from the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering with details of the test date, venue, and any additional instructions.
