The Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST), Kashmir, has invited applications from eligible candidates for engagement as a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) under an AYUSH-sponsored research project. The recruitment notification has been issued by the Watson–Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine under Advertisement/Notification No. 02 of 2026, dated September 29, 2026.
The recruitment drive is for one Junior Research Fellow position. The selected candidate will be engaged specifically for the research project titled “Investigate the Therapeutic and Chemo-Sensitizing Efficacy of Unani Pharmacopoeial Formulation Dawa-Ul-Kurkum on Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma.”
The position is project-based and applicants who meet the prescribed educational and other eligibility conditions can submit their applications through the process specified by the university.
IUST JRF Vacancy and Salary
According to the notification, one post of Junior Research Fellow is available under the AYUSH-sponsored research project.
The monthly emoluments for the position have been fixed at Rs. 31,000 plus 9% HRA.
The appointment is not a permanent position. IUST has specified that the engagement will remain temporary and contractual and will continue only for the duration of the project, subject to the availability of funds and satisfactory performance.
The notification also makes it clear that engagement under the project will not provide any right or claim for regular appointment in the university.
Educational Qualification
Candidates applying for the IUST Junior Research Fellow recruitment must possess a First Class Post-Graduate degree, such as an M.Sc. or equivalent qualification, from a recognized Board, University or Institute.
The required specialization should be in one of the following areas:
- Biotechnology
- Life Sciences
- Botany
- Pharmacology
The prescribed qualification is specifically mentioned in the recruitment notification and candidates are required to meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
Desirable Experience
IUST has also specified certain additional qualifications or experience that may be preferred during the selection process.
Candidates having previous experience in Cell Culture, Drug Discovery, Animal Models or Molecular Biology will be preferred, according to the notification.
These areas correspond to the research requirements outlined for the project, which focuses on investigating the therapeutic and chemo-sensitizing efficacy of the Unani pharmacopoeial formulation Dawa-Ul-Kurkum in relation to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Age Limit
The notification prescribes different maximum age limits for candidates belonging to different categories.
For General/EWS candidates, the maximum age limit is 30 years. For OBC candidates under the Non-Creamy Layer category, the maximum age limit is 33 years.
The maximum age limit for SC/ST, Differently Abled and Women candidates is 35 years.
Candidates should ensure that they fall within the applicable age limit while submitting their applications.
IUST JRF Application Dates 2026
The online application process for the IUST JRF recruitment is scheduled to begin on October 1, 2026.
The important application dates mentioned in the notification are:
- Online application start date: October 1, 2026
- Last date for online submission: October 11, 2026
- Last date for hard-copy submission: October 13, 2026
The notification states that the hard copy of the complete application must be submitted only on working days during the prescribed office hours.
How to Apply for IUST JRF Recruitment
Eligible candidates are required to submit their applications online only through the official website of the Islamic University of Science & Technology using the prescribed application link.
However, completing the online application is not the only requirement. After submitting the application online, candidates must also submit a hard copy of the complete application along with the supporting documents to the office of the Principal Investigator at the address specified in the notification.
Applications submitted only in hard copy, without completing the online submission process, will not be considered.
Documents Required
Candidates are required to submit the documents specified by the university along with their application. These include an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) and copies of educational qualification certificates and mark sheets.
Applicants must also provide proof of their date of birth and a valid JRF/NET/GATE/SET or equivalent qualification certificate, as applicable.
Where applicable, candidates should also submit experience certificates along with other relevant supporting documents.
Address for Hard Copy Submission
The hard copy of the application and supporting documents is to be submitted to the office of Dr. Muzafar A. Macha, Principal Investigator, for the AYUSH-sponsored research project.
The specified address is:
Office of Dr. Muzafar A. Macha
Principal Investigator
AYUSH-Sponsored Research Project
Islamic University of Science & Technology
Awantipora, Kashmir – 192122
Selection and Interview
As per the recruitment notification, only candidates who meet the eligibility requirements and are shortlisted will be called for the interview.
The university has also stated that no TA/DA will be paid for attending the interview. The selected candidate will work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and will perform duties connected with the research project.
The engagement will remain temporary and project-specific and will automatically cease upon completion or termination of the project.
Important Terms and Conditions
The university has reserved the right to shortlist candidates and/or decide not to fill the position without assigning any reason.
Other terms and conditions of the engagement will be governed by the applicable DBT guidelines and University rules, as specified in the notification.
The recruitment notification has been issued by Dr. Muzafar A. Macha, Assistant Professor/Principal Investigator, WCCMM-IUST, under notification number IUST/WCCMM/26/367, dated September 29, 2026.
Candidates interested in the IUST Junior Research Fellow opportunity should carefully check the prescribed eligibility requirements, complete the online application within the specified deadline, and ensure that the required hard copy and supporting documents are submitted by October 13, 2026.