NIT Rourkela Recruitment 2026 @nitrkl.ac.in: Rs. 31,000 per month Project Associate Vacancy in Odisha for Engineers
National Institute of Technology Rourkela is inviting applications from eligible candidates for the position of Project Associate for a sponsored research project in the Department of Food Process Engineering. The project focuses on the design and development of AI-driven indigenous protein texturization technology for meat analogues.
Important Points
Organization: National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela)
Post Name: Project Associate (PA)
Project Title: Design and Development of Artificial Intelligence Driven Indigenous Protein Texturization Shear Cell for Manufacturing High Moisture Meat Analogue
Department: Food Process Engineering
Project Code: SR-26-FP-043
Number of Vacancies: 01
Job Type: Temporary / Contractual
Location: Rourkela, Odisha
Vacancy and Salary for Career 2026
Post Name | Vacancy | Salary (Monthly) |
Project Associate (PA) | 01 | Rs. 31,000 + HRA (if applicable) |
Eligibility Criteria for Recruitment 2026
Essential Qualification: B. Tech in Food Process Engineering, Food Processing, Food Technology, Food Engineering and Technology, or Agricultural Engineering with a minimum CGPA of 6.5/10.0 (or 60% aggregate) and a valid GATE/NET qualification.
Alternative Qualification: M. Tech in Food Process Engineering, Food Processing, Food Technology, Food Engineering and Technology, or Agricultural Process Engineering with a minimum CGPA of 6.5/10.0 (or 60% aggregate) and GATE/NET qualification.
Desirable Experience: Research experience in AI-ML Modeling, CAD design, FEM/CFD/DEM Simulations, Digital Twin technology, Protein Characterization, and hands-on experience with Rheometers and Texture Analysers.
Age Limit for Vacancy
Maximum Age: 35 years as of the last date of application receipt.
Relaxation: The upper age limit is relaxed by 5 years for SC/ST/PWD/Female candidates and 3 years for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates.
Selection Process and How to Apply for Jobs
Application Mode: Online via the NIT Rourkela website.
Application Path: Candidates should visit the NIT Rourkela Homepage and navigate to Faculty & Staff -> SRICCE -> Career -> Notices.
Interview Details: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview scheduled for 24-August-2026 at 10:30 AM in the Department of Food Process Engineering.
Last Date for Recruitment 2026
Last Date to Apply: 20-August-2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the salary for the Project Associate at NIT Rourkela? The salary is Rs. 31,000 per month plus HRA as applicable for the first two years.
Is GATE or NET mandatory for this recruitment? Yes, candidates must be GATE/NET qualified to be eligible for the Project Associate position.
What is the last date to submit the application? The deadline for submitting the application is 20-August-2026.
Where will the interview be held? The interview will be conducted online on 24-August-2026 starting at 10:30 AM.
What is the age limit for this vacancy? The upper age limit is 35 years, with relaxations provided for reserved category candidates.
What is the duration of the Project Associate post? The initial tenure is 11 months, though the project itself is scheduled to continue until 21-July-2028.
What academic background is required for this role? Candidates should have a B.Tech or M.Tech in Food Process Engineering, Food Technology, or Agricultural Engineering.
Is this a permanent job? No, the engagement is purely on a temporary or contractual basis and is co-terminus with the project.
Where can I find the application link? The application link is available on the NIT Rourkela official website under the SRICCE Career Notices section.