If you’re a researcher in meteorology, atmospheric science, or oceanography looking for a foothold in India’s space program, ISRO just opened a door worth knowing about.
Research opportunity at ISRO:
The Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR — India’s primary spaceport, located in Sriharikota — has advertised one opening for a Research Associate (RA-I) position.
Who can apply:
There are two paths to eligibility:
- A Ph.D. in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, Oceanography, Physics, or Applied Physics, or an equivalent field, or
- An ME/M.Tech in Atmospheric or Ocean Sciences with at least three years of research experience and at least one paper published in a Science Citation Index (SCI) journal related to atmospheric, oceanic, or climate sciences.
Candidates need a first-class ME/M.Tech (minimum 60% aggregate or 6.5 CGPA), built on a first-class bachelor’s degree (65% aggregate or 6.84 CGPA). Only candidates who have already passed — not those awaiting final results — are eligible.
Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old as of July 17, 2026, with standard age relaxations for SC/ST, OBC, PWBD, and ex-servicemen candidates.
The terms of employment:
This is a temporary, project-linked role — not a path to regular ISRO employment. Selected candidates start with a three-year term, extendable by up to two more years at SDSC SHAR’s discretion or until the project’s validity ends, whichever comes first. Compensation is a consolidated ₹58,000 per month, plus house rent allowance where hostel accommodation isn’t provided, along with standard medical and leave benefits.
How to apply:
Applications are online-only, open from June 23 to July 17, 2026, on the SDSC SHAR website. Shortlisting is based on academic performance and other listed parameters, with final selection made through an interview.
Why it matters:
Roles like this open opportunities to be a part of India’s space and climate research infrastructure. For early-career researchers in atmospheric and ocean sciences, a stint supporting live launch operations is a distinctive line on a CV, even with the position’s project-based, temporary nature.
Full details and the official advertisement are available on the SDSC SHAR recruitment page.
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