Junior Research Fellow (JRF) - Impact-based Forecasting of Lightning and Hail

📋 Job Description

Project titled 'Impact-based forecasting of lightning and hail in severe convection over the eastern parts of India' funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF).
Engagement is purely on a temporary/contractual basis co-terminus with the project completion.
Focus on research and development of lightning and hail predictions using observations, regional analysis, and high-resolution mesoscale models.
Opportunity to work with advanced tools like WRF model, Unix/Linux environment, Python, and shell scripting.
Preference given to candidates with experience in lightning/hail analysis, thunderstorms, AI/ML applications, and field data collection.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

M.Sc. or M.Tech in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or Oceanography from a recognized university with at least 60% marks.
Candidates must have cleared NET, GATE, or any CFTI Exam.
Working experience with the WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting) model is mandatory.
Strong background in Unix/Linux environment with proficiency in Python and shell scripting.
Demonstrated skills in the analysis of extreme weather events.
Desirable: Experience in lightning and hail analysis, thunderstorms, AI/ML applications, and field data collection.

🏆 Selection Process

Selection will be based on an online interview conducted on 02nd September 2026 at 10:00 AM.
Candidates are advised to verify their eligibility and prepare accordingly for the interview.
The engagement is purely on a temporary/contractual basis and will conclude with the project completion.

📊 Key Information

Organization	National Institute of Technology Rourkela
Location / State	Odisha
Job Location	Rourkela, Odisha, India
Category Eligibility	All categories (General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS) are eligible as per government norms.
Experience Required	Working experience with the WRF model is mandatory. Experience in lightning/hail analysis, thunderstorms, AI/ML applications, and field data collection is desirable.
Last Date to Apply	26 August 2026

📊 NIT Rourkela Recruitment - Vacancy Details

Post Name	Total Posts
Junior Research Fellow (JRF)	2
Total	2

📁 Required Documents

Scanned copy of educational qualification certificates (M.Sc./M.Tech).
Proof of clearing NET/GATE/CFTI Exam.
Experience certificates (if applicable).
Proof of working experience with WRF model.
Passport-sized photograph.
Government-issued ID proof (Aadhaar Card/PAN Card/Passport).
Caste certificate (if applicable).
Any other relevant certificates (e.g., publications, projects, or fieldwork experience).

🎓 Required Qualifications

📊 Vacancy Details

Total vacancies: 2 for the post of Junior Research Fellow (JRF).
The engagement is purely on a temporary/contractual basis co-terminus with the project completion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the duration of the project for which the Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position is being offered?

A. The project duration is from May 2029 to July 2026.

Q. What are the educational qualifications required for the JRF position?

A. Applicants must have an M.Sc. or M.Tech degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or Oceanography with at least 60% marks. They must also have cleared NET, GATE, or any CFTI Exam.

Q. Is prior experience with the WRF model mandatory for this position?

A. Working experience with the WRF model is listed as a requirement for the position.

Q. What is the stipend for the JRF position during the first two years?

A. The stipend for the first two years is ₹37,000 per month.

Q. How will the selection process be conducted for this position?

A. The selection process will involve an online interview scheduled for September 2, 2026, at 10:00 AM.