JRF Vacancy at IISER Mohali | Biological Sciences | Apply Now
The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali is inviting applications for a high-impact JRF/SRF vacancy within its Department of Chemical Sciences. Funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), India, this project dives into the fundamental biophysical principles of hearing, specifically targeting how proteins fold and fail under mechanical stress. If you are a physicist, engineer, or biologist interested in state-of-the-art single-molecule techniques, this IISER recruitment offers a prestigious pathway into cutting-edge experimental biophysics.
About the Institute
The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali stands as an Institute of National Importance, established by the Government of India to bridge the gap between frontier scientific research and world-class education. Nestled in the Knowledge City of SAS Nagar, the institute provides a vibrant, interdisciplinary environment where the boundaries between physics, chemistry, and biology are intentionally blurred to foster innovation.
Project Details
The project, titled “Deciphering protein folding dynamics under oscillatory mechanical perturbations,” uses force as a “scalpel” to probe the stability of proteins. Led by Dr. Sabyasachi Rakshit, the lab has a proven track record of excellence, with recent breakthroughs published in Nature Communications (2024 & 2025).
- Single-Molecule Techniques: You will learn to operate Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Magnetic Tweezers to pull on individual protein molecules.
- Frequency Analysis: By applying oscillatory forces (shaking the molecule at specific frequencies), the lab aims to mimic the mechanical environment of the inner ear.
Eligibility & Success Profile
IISER Mohali seeks candidates with strong quantitative skills and a willingness to work across scientific disciplines.
- Essential Education:
- 5-year Master’s degree in Biological Sciences.
- OR 4-year Engineering degree (B.E./B.Tech) in Mechanical or Electronics.
- Mandatory Qualifications: Candidates must have a valid GATE and/or NET qualification to be considered for the JRF position.
- Technical Interests: A desire to learn AFM, fluorescence microscopy, and precision instrumentation is essential.
Remuneration & Career Growth
- Stipend:
- JRF: ₹31,000 + HRA (as per DBT/GoI norms).
- SRF: ₹35,000 + HRA (following promotion for Ph.D. track).
- Duration: The position is initially for two years, with the opportunity to transition into a Senior Research Fellow (SRF) role for Ph.D. candidates.
Application & Timeline
This is an immediate recruitment drive with a very tight schedule.
- Application Deadline: 15th February 2026 (Full application submission).
- Application Method: Fill out the GOOGLE FORM, including a CV, one referee name, and a 1-page Statement of Purpose (SoP).
- Online Interview: 17th – 18th February 2026.
- Joining Date: Latest by the first week of March 2026.
Applying for this JRF vacancy at IISER Mohali is a definitive step toward a high-level career in biophysics. This SRF vacancy offers the chance to contribute to a lab that publishes in top-tier journals while mastering rare techniques like single-molecule AFM. If you hold a Master’s or Engineering degree and have qualified NET/GATE, ensure your SoP and CV are submitted by the deadline.























