Project Associate (PA) - I for AI-Driven Protein Texturization Research

📋 Recruitment Overview

Organization	National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela)
Job Category	Technical
Eligibility Qualification	B.Tech (btech), M.Tech (mtech)
Number of Vacancies	1 Posts
Salary / Pay Scale	₹31,000 - ₹31,000 Per Month
Age Limits	Maximum 35 Years
Gender Eligibility	both
Experience Required	Research experience in AI-ML modeling, CAD design, FEM/CFD/DEM simulations, digital twin, protein characterization, and hands-on experience with rheometer and texture analyzer is desirable.
Application Fee	- No application fee for this position.

📄 Details & Description

- Design and development of an AI-driven indigenous protein texturization shear cell for manufacturing high-moisture meat analogues.
- Focus on AI-ML modeling, CAD design, FEM/CFD/DEM simulations, and digital twin technologies.
- Hands-on experience with rheometer and texture analyzer for protein characterization.
- Project duration: 2 years (Year 1 & 2).
- Engagement is purely on a temporary/contractual basis, co-terminus with project completion.

🎓 Eligibility Criteria

- B. Tech in Food Process Engineering/Processing and Food Engineering/Food Technology/Food Engineering and Technology/Agricultural Engineering with a minimum CGPA of 6.5/10.0 (or 60% aggregate) and GATE/NET qualified.
- OR M. Tech in Food Process Engineering/Processing and Food Engineering/Food Technology/Food Engineering and Technology/Agricultural Process Engineering with a minimum CGPA of 6.5/10.0 (or 60% aggregate) and GATE/NET qualified.
- Research experience in AI-ML modeling, CAD design, FEM/CFD/DEM simulations, digital twin, protein characterization, and hands-on experience with rheometer and texture analyzer is desirable.
- Upper age limit: 35 years as of the last date of application receipt.

⚙️ Selection Process

- Selection will be based on an online interview conducted on 24th August 2026 at 10:30 AM.
- Candidates must register for the interview by the last date of application submission.
- The interview will assess technical knowledge, research experience, and project-specific skills.

🏷️ Category Eligibility & Reservations

All

📂 Required Documents

- Duly filled application form (available on the official website).
- Self-attested copies of educational certificates and mark sheets.
- GATE/NET qualification certificate (if applicable).
- Proof of age (birth certificate, Aadhaar card, or 10th class certificate).
- Experience certificates (if any).
- Research publications or project reports (if applicable).
- Passport-sized photographs (2 copies).
- Any other documents supporting eligibility criteria.

💳 Application Fee Details

- No application fee for this position.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the duration of the Project Associate (PA) -I position?

The engagement will be purely on a temporary/contractual basis and co-terminus with the completion of the project, which is scheduled until 31st July 2028.

Q. What are the essential educational qualifications required for the Project Associate (PA) -I position?

A B. Tech in Food Process Engineering/Processing and Food Engineering/Food Technology/Food Engineering and Technology/Agricultural Engineering with a minimum CGPA of 6.5/10.0 (or 60% aggregate) and GATE/NET qualified, OR an M. Tech in the same fields with a minimum CGPA of 6.5/10.0 (or 60% aggregate) and GATE/NET qualified.

Q. What is the upper age limit for applying to this project position?

The upper age limit for applying is 35 years, reckoned as on the last date of receipt of the application.

Q. What are the desirable qualifications for the Project Associate (PA) -I position?

Research experience in AI-ML Modeling, CAD design, FEM/CFD/DEM Simulations, Digital Twin, Protein Characterization, and hands-on experience with Rheometer and Texture Analyzer is desirable.

Q. When is the last date to submit the application for the Project Associate (PA) -I position?

The last date for submitting the application is 20th August 2026.