The Department of Life Science at the National Institute of Technology Rourkela is inviting applications for a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position in the field of Marine Microbiology. The project, titled 'Marine microbial resources for environmental and biomedical applications,' is part of the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC) and is funded by the Science & Technology Department, Government of Odisha. The research will focus on marine microorganisms and microbial product innovations, including enzymes, with potential environmental and biomedical applications.

Eligible candidates should hold an M.Sc. or M.Tech (or equivalent) in Life Science, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Marine Science (Biology), Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Zoology, Animal Science, Botany, Genetics, Environmental Science, or a related discipline, with at least 60% marks or a 6.5 CGPA. A valid GATE score or NET certificate (CSIR/UGC/ICMR/DBT, JRF/LS) is mandatory. Prior experience in microbiology, biofilm biology, bioremediation, molecular biology, and advanced laboratory techniques (such as PCR, RT-PCR, Western Blotting, Immunofluorescence, spectroscopy, protein purification, and bioactive microbial metabolite analysis) is highly desirable.

The position offers a monthly fellowship of INR 37,000 plus HRA (if applicable) for two years. The appointment is temporary and will end with the project. The upper age limit is 28 years, with relaxations for reserved categories as per government rules. The last date to apply is 27 January 2026, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview on 28 January 2026.

To apply, candidates must send a completed application form and supporting documents as a single PDF by email, mentioning the 'Advertisement No.' in the subject line, to the provided email addresses. For more details and the application link, refer to the official NIT Rourkela website. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates interested in marine microbiology, environmental science, and biotechnology to contribute to cutting-edge research at a leading Indian institution.