TIFR Recruitment 2026 notification has been released for 35 posts across scientific, engineering, administrative, and support roles at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Colaba, Mumbai. The online application window is now open at https://www.tifr.res.in, with positions ranging from Scientific Officer (Level 10) to Security Guard (Level 1) under the 7th Central Pay Commission pay matrix. Vacancies span multiple categories-General, OBC, SC, ST, and EWS-with qualification requirements varying from graduates to diploma holders and trade-certified professionals.
TIFR Recruitment 2026 – Quick Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) |
| Posts | 35 across multiple roles |
| Advertisement No. | 2026/6 |
| Application Mode | Online only |
| Last Date to Apply | 04/07/2026 |
| Official Website | https://www.tifr.res.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date to Submit Application | 04/07/2026 |
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must hold relevant educational qualifications, meet experience requirements, and fall within the prescribed age limits as on 04/07/2026. As per Advertisement No. 2026/6 released by TIFR, each post carries distinct qualification, experience, and age specifications. Age relaxation applies to SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD candidates and Government servants as per the Government of India norms.
Age Limit Table
| Post Category | Age Limit (Maximum) |
|---|---|
| Scientific Officer (C) | 28-31 years (varies by post) |
| Junior Engineer (B) | 28 years |
| Scientific Assistant (B) | 28-33 years (varies by category) |
| Administrative Assistant (B) | 33-36 years (varies by category) |
| Supervisor (Cosmetics Maintenance) | 28 years |
| Tradesman (B) [all trades] | 28-33 years (varies by category) |
| Laboratory Assistant (B) | 28 years |
| Clerk (A) | 28-31 years (varies by category) |
| Work Assistant (Auxiliary) | 28-31 years (varies by category) |
| Work Assistant (Technical) [all trades] | 28 years |
| Security Guard | 28 years |
| Project Administrative Assistant (B) | 33 years |
Age Relaxation Explanation
SC and ST candidates receive relaxation of up to 5 years beyond the prescribed upper age limit, making them eligible up to 33-38 years, depending on the post. OBC candidates are eligible for 3 years’ additional relaxation. EWS candidates are eligible as per the Government of India guidelines. PwBD candidates (40% or more disability) receive a 10-year relaxation over and above their category relaxation. Government servants and ex-servicemen are also eligible for age relaxation as per the Government of India rules.
Is This Recruitment Right for You?
- Engineers and Technical Graduates: If you hold a BE/B. Tech in Mechanical, Computer Science, or related fields with 1-3 years of experience, you qualify for Scientific Officer or Junior Engineer roles.
- Science Graduates: B.Sc. holders in Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, or Biology with relevant experience (1-2 years) can apply for Scientific Assistant posts.
- Diploma Holders: Candidates with National Trade Certificates (NTC-NCVT) in trades like Plumbing, Electrical, Welding, or Mechatronics can apply for Tradesman positions.
- Administrative and Clerical Background: Graduates with 1-5 years in accounts, administration, or clerical roles meet eligibility for Administrative Assistant and Clerk posts.
- Security and Support Roles: SSC-qualified candidates with 3 years of security/Defence experience or basic qualifications and 1 year of canteen/catering experience can apply for Security Guard and Work Assistant positions.
- All Reserved Categories: SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and PwBD candidates receive age relaxation as listed above, extending eligibility windows considerably.
TIFR Recruitment 2026 – Vacancy Breakdown
| Post Name | Posts | Pay Level | Category Breakup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scientific Officer (C) | 3 | Level 10 | 1 OBC, 2 UR |
| Junior Engineer (B) | 1 | Level 6 | 1 UR |
| Scientific Assistant (B) | 3 | Level 6 | 1 SC, 2 UR |
| Administrative Assistant (B) | 3 | Level 6 | 1 SC, 1 OBC, 1 UR |
| Supervisor (Cosmetics Maintenance) | 1 | Level 6 | 1 UR |
| Tradesman (B) [Plumber] | 3 | Level 3 | 2 UR, 1 SC |
| Tradesman (B) [Electrician] | 2 | Level 3 | 1 OBC, 1 UR |
| Tradesman (B) [Welder] | 1 | Level 3 | 1 EWS |
| Tradesman (B) [Technician Mechatronics] | 1 | Level 3 | 1 UR |
| Laboratory Assistant (B) | 1 | Level 3 | 1 UR |
| Clerk (A) | 4 | Level 3 | 1 OBC, 2 UR, 1 EWS |
| Work Assistant (Auxiliary) | 4 | Level 1 | 1 UR + 1 OBC, 1 UR, 1 OBC |
| Work Assistant (Technical) [AC / Painter / Plumber / Fitter] | 4 | Level 1 | 2 UR, 2 EWS |
| Security Guard | 3 | Level 1 | 3 UR |
| Project Administrative Assistant (B) | 1 | Consolidated | 1 UR |
Total: 35 posts
About the Scientific Officer and Technical Roles
Scientific Officer positions in TIFR involve conducting or supporting high-level research in physics, chemistry, materials science, or engineering disciplines, often working with specialized equipment like NMR spectrometers or cryogenic systems. These roles demand strong technical competency, attention to precision, and the ability to work in a research environment where experimental methods and troubleshooting are core responsibilities. At Pay Level 10, Scientific Officers are senior technical professionals in a Group A central government research institution, commanding significant responsibility and career progression. TIFR, as India’s premier fundamental research organization, conducts cutting-edge work in high-energy physics, astrophysics, and materials science, positioning Scientists and Engineers at the forefront of India’s scientific advancement.
Similarly, Junior Engineers, Scientific Assistants, and Tradespersons provide essential technical and infrastructural support, whether supervising air-conditioning systems, maintaining laboratory equipment, managing electrical and mechanical installations, or providing specialized trade expertise. These roles typically offer stable career paths with pension benefits under the National Pension System.
Pay Scale and Benefits
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Officer (C) | Pay Level 10, Stage 1; TME: ₹1,18,110 per month |
| Junior Engineer (B) | Pay Level 6, Stage 1; TME: ₹73,020 per month |
| Scientific Assistant (B) | Pay Level 6, Stage 1; TME: ₹73,020 per month |
| Administrative Assistant (B) | Pay Level 6, Stage 1; TME: ₹73,020 per month |
| Supervisor (Cosmetics Maintenance) | Pay Level 6, Stage 1; TME: ₹73,020 per month |
| Tradesman (B) [all trades] | Pay Level 3, Stage 1; TME: ₹46,990 per month |
| Laboratory Assistant (B) | Pay Level 3, Stage 1; TME: ₹46,990 per month |
| Clerk (A) | Pay Level 3, Stage 1; TME: ₹46,990 per month |
| Work Assistant (Auxiliary) | Pay Level 1, Stage 1; TME: ₹36,360 per month |
| Work Assistant (Technical) | Pay Level 1, Stage 1; TME: ₹36,360 per month |
| Security Guard | Pay Level 1, Stage 1; TME: ₹36,360 per month |
| Project Administrative Assistant (B) | Consolidated Pay (includes HRA); ₹63,900 per month |
Salary Context
Pay Level 10 positions place Scientific Officers in the senior Group A category, commanding monthly emoluments over ₹1.18 lakh. Levels 6 and above (Scientific Assistant through Administrative Assistant) fall under Group B and Group A, typically representing mid-career technical and administrative roles in government research institutions. Levels 3 and 1 are Group C positions, entry-level to support-level roles in central government. All positions except the Project Administrative Assistant benefit from pension coverage under the National Pension System (NPS). Candidates selected for technical and tradesman roles (Posts 12-17, 22-29) should note they will be required to work shifts, including Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays as per institutional needs.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General (UR) / EWS | ₹500 |
| OBC | ₹500 |
| SC / ST | Nil |
| PwBD | Nil |
Selection Process
The selection mode for each post varies. Candidates must be aware that TIFR reserves the right to shortlist candidates based on qualifications and experience higher than the prescribed minimum.
| Post | Selection Mode |
|---|---|
| Scientific Officer (C) – Post 1 | Personal Interview |
| Scientific Officer (C) – Posts 2 & 3 | Written Test and Personal Interview |
| Junior Engineer (B) | Personal Interview |
| Scientific Assistant (B) – Post 5 | Personal Interview |
| Scientific Assistant (B) – Posts 6 & 7 | Written Examination and Personal Interview |
| Administrative Assistant (B) – Posts 8, 9, 10 | Written Test and Skill Test |
| Supervisor (Cosmetics Maintenance) | Written Test and Skill Test |
| Tradesman (B) [all trades] | Written Test and Trade Test |
| Laboratory Assistant (B) | Written Test and Trade Test |
| Clerk (A) [all posts] | Written Test and Skill Test |
| Work Assistant (Auxiliary) | Written Test and Skill Test |
| Work Assistant (Technical) [all trades] | Written Test and Trade Test |
| Security Guard | Written Test, Physical Fitness Test, Physical Efficiency Test |
| Project Administrative Assistant (B) | Written Test and Skill Test |
TIFR reserves the right to conduct all written tests, skill tests, interviews, and physical tests either online or in-person at its Mumbai campus or other centres as deemed appropriate.
How to Apply for TIFR Recruitment 2026
- Visit the official TIFR website at https://www.tifr.res.in.
- Navigate to the Careers or Recruitment section and locate Advertisement No. 2026/6.
- Read the complete official notification carefully to understand all post-specific eligibility criteria, experience requirements, and selection modes.
- Click “Apply Online” for the post you wish to apply for.
- Register on the application portal using your email and a strong password if first-time access.
- Fill in all personal details accurately: name, date of birth, contact information, and postal address.
- Enter your educational qualifications in the prescribed format, ensuring all semesters/years and percentages are correctly stated.
- Provide a detailed account of your work experience, including organization name, designation, duration, and key responsibilities, where applicable.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph (JPG/PNG format, typically 10-40 KB), signature, and all relevant educational certificates and experience letters.
- Select your preferred post and category (General / OBC / SC / ST / EWS / PwBD) carefully-you cannot change this after submission.
- Review all entered information for accuracy before proceeding to payment.
- Pay the applicable fee (₹500 for General/OBC, Nil for SC/ST/PwBD) via online banking, debit card, or credit card as offered on the portal.
- Submit the completed application form before 04/07/2026, 23:59 IST.
- Download and print the confirmation page with your application reference number for future correspondence.
Candidates already in government or semi-government service should ensure they have arranged an NOC from their employer before the selection stage begins-some institutions delay NOC issuance, so it is prudent to initiate this process early.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
- Uploading incorrect photograph dimensions or file size: Ensure your photograph meets the specified size (typically 10-40 KB) and dimensions. Mismatched files cause automatic rejection at document verification.
- Filling part-time or correspondence education where full-time is mandated: Several Scientific Officer and Scientific Assistant posts require full-time degrees; declaring a part-time degree will result in disqualification during screening.
- OBC candidates missing Non-Creamy Layer certificate: If you apply under the OBC category, you must possess a valid Non-Creamy Layer certificate for the current financial year. Applications without this will be rejected at the verification stage.
- Incorrect category selection at form submission: Once you submit the application, your category (General / OBC / SC / ST / EWS / PwBD) cannot be changed. Selecting the wrong category may prevent you from claiming applicable age relaxation or benefits later.
- Waiting until the last hours to submit: The TIFR portal experiences high traffic near the deadline. Submitting in the final hour risks session timeouts and payment gateway delays, potentially causing you to miss the deadline entirely.
- Mismatched qualifications or experience in the form: Ensure the qualifications and experience you declare match your uploaded certificates exactly in spelling, dates, and percentages. Discrepancies lead to rejection during document verification.
Documents Required
Candidates called for the selection process must bring the following original documents along with photocopies:
- Printout of the online application form with the reference number
- Valid photo identity proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, Passport, or Driving Licence)
- Proof of date of birth (Birth Certificate or Secondary School Certificate)
- All educational qualification certificates, mark sheets, and degree documents for each semester or year
- Experience certificates from all employers, stating designation, duration, and key responsibilities
- Character certificates from two respectable persons (community leaders, school headmasters, or senior officials)
- SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD certificate in the Government of India format (if applicable)
- OBC Non-Creamy Layer certificate valid for the current financial year (mandatory for OBC candidates)
- EWS certificate valid for the current financial year (mandatory for EWS candidates)
- PwBD candidates must submit the Disability Certificate showing a minimum of 40% disability
Appointment Terms and Conditions
For Scientific Officer, Junior Engineer, Scientific Assistant, Administrative Assistant, Supervisor, Tradesman, Laboratory Assistant, and Clerk posts (Sr. Nos. 1-7, 12-17, 18-21), the initial appointment is for 3 years, including a 1-year probation period. Continuation beyond 3 years is subject to a comprehensive performance review; upon successful review, the appointment continues until superannuation at age 60. All selected candidates (Posts 1-29) are governed by the National Pension System (NPS).
The Project Administrative Assistant (Post 30) is a temporary, non-pensionable contract position, renewable annually up to a maximum of 3 years.
Candidates selected for Tradesman posts (12-17) and Work Assistant roles (22-29) will be required to work on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays and must be prepared for shift duties as per TIFR’s institutional requirements.
Who Should Not Apply
- Candidates holding only part-time or correspondence degrees, where a full-time degree is explicitly required by the notification
- OBC candidates without a valid Non-Creamy Layer certificate for the current financial year
- Candidates unable to produce a grade-to-percentage conversion certificate from their university if required
- Currently employed government servants are unable to obtain an NOC from their employer before the selection stage
- Security Guard applicants who do not meet the prescribed physical standards (height ≥165 cm for males, ≥157 cm for females; chest 80-85 cm for males; eyesight 6/6 minimum)
- Candidates who cannot verify their experience claims with authentic certificates from recognized employers
What Happens After You Apply
- Application submission window closes on 04/07/2026.
- TIFR will release a shortlist of candidates for the written test/interview based on qualifications and experience as per the official notification.
- Written tests (where applicable) will be conducted, followed by skill tests, trade tests, or interviews, depending on the post category.
- Successful candidates will be called for document verification, where all original certificates and identity proofs will be verified.
- The final merit list will be published on the official TIFR website.
- Selected candidates will be issued appointment letters with a joining date.
- Joining and completion of probation (1 year for most posts) leads to confirmation or rejection as per TIFR’s performance review policy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the last date to apply for TIFR Recruitment 2026?
Ans. The online application window closes on 04/07/2026, 23:59 IST. No offline or postal applications are accepted. Once the deadline passes, the application portal will be deactivated, and no further submissions will be accepted.
Q2. Can I change my category (General / OBC / SC / ST / EWS) after submitting the form?
Ans. No. Once you submit the application, your category selection is locked and cannot be changed. Select carefully at the time of form submission, as claiming a different category later will not be permitted.
Q3. Is age relaxation applicable, and by how many years?
Ans. Yes. SC candidates receive up to 5 years’ relaxation; ST candidates also receive up to 5 years; OBC candidates receive 3 years’ relaxation; EWS candidates receive relaxation as per Government of India guidelines; PwBD candidates (40% or more disability) receive 10 years’ relaxation over and above their category relaxation. Government servants receive age relaxation as per the Government of India rules.
Q4. I am an OBC candidate. Do I need to submit an OBC Non-Creamy Layer certificate?
Ans. Yes, absolutely. OBC candidates must possess a valid Non-Creamy Layer certificate issued by a competent authority for the current financial year. Without this certificate, your application will be rejected at the document verification stage.
Q5. What is the application fee, and when should I pay it?
Ans. The application fee is ₹500 for General / UR / OBC candidates and Nil for SC / ST / PwBD candidates. You pay the fee during the form submission process after filling in all details. Ensure payment is completed before clicking the final submit button; otherwise, your application will not be recorded.
Q6. What selection tests will be conducted for the Scientific Assistant (B) post?
Ans. The selection mode varies by post within Scientific Assistant (B). Post 5 (SC) involves a Personal Interview only. Posts 6 and 7 (UR) will have a Written Examination followed by a Personal Interview. The written test duration, marking scheme, and interview date will be notified separately on the official website.
Q7. Will the written tests and interviews be conducted online or in-person?
Ans. TIFR reserves the right to conduct all written tests, skill tests, interviews, and physical tests either online or in-person at its Mumbai campus or other centres as it deems appropriate. The final mode will be communicated to shortlisted candidates via email.
Q8. Is there any experience requirement waiver for fresher candidates?
Ans. No. Most posts under TIFR Recruitment 2026 mandate specific experience (1-5 years, depending on the post). Fresher candidates do not meet the eligibility criteria for this recruitment and should not apply. However, candidates with equivalent professional experience in the required field may be eligible-verify the exact wording in the official notification for your chosen post.
Your Next Step
Submit your application via https://www.tifr.res.in before 04/07/2026. Ensure all details-especially category selection, educational certificates, and experience descriptions-are accurate and match your uploaded documents exactly to avoid rejection during verification. After the application window closes, TIFR will release a shortlist of candidates for written tests, interviews, or trade tests, depending on your post; candidates shortlisted will be notified via email with test dates and venue information. Stay updated on the official TIFR website for merit list announcements, document verification schedules, and appointment letters once the selection process concludes.
