Project Associate-I — Machine Learning/Remote Sensing, PA-I-16/2026
Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology invites online applications for one Project Associate-I position under category PA-I-16/2026. The project develops a remotely sensed spectral framework for geological samples, addressing spectral variability and multi-scale integration for mining and mineral-industry applications. The official project-positions page and notice are dated 3 November 2026, with online applications available through 13 November 2026.
Qualification and technical fit
The notice lists BTech/MTech/Master’s in Computer Science and Engineering, AI/ML or allied domains as the desired qualification. All listed degrees must be first class and the required qualification must be held by the application closing date. Only Indian nationals may apply. Preferred experience or exposure is in machine learning, remote sensing or geology. The notice does not state a mandatory minimum number of professional years for this category.
Age and pay
The maximum age is 35 years as on 3 November 2026, not the closing date. The consolidated monthly remuneration for category PA-I-16/2026 is ₹31,000 plus HRA. The same advertisement includes other project categories with different qualifications and HRA treatment; this article concerns the spectral-framework position specifically.
Location and engagement
The position is at IIST, Valiamala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. It is initially for one year. Extension depends on performance, project need and availability of funds; the institute may terminate the appointment before completion of the tenure or project. Selected candidates must join by the date specified by the institute. These project posts do not carry hostel accommodation at IIST.
How to apply online
Open the linked official IIST project-recruitment entry page and select the Project Associate-I application portal for advertisement IIST/Admin/31-11/2026. Complete the profile and post-registration steps for category PA-I-16/2026. The actual advertisement-selection screen was checked and offers profile registration, post registration and candidate login for this recruitment. Only online applications are considered.
Documents and deadline
Upload the relevant mark sheets, degree/PG certificates and experience certificates when registering the online application. Be especially careful with profile details: the notice says profile registration cannot be changed after submission. The application window in the notice is 3–13 November 2026; no exact closing time is stated. Applicants employed by central/state government, PSUs or autonomous bodies need a No Objection Certificate from the relevant employer.
Selection and official updates
Only shortlisted candidates meeting the advertised qualifications, skills and experience are called for selection. The notice refers to a written test/interview as applicable and specifies that shortlisted candidates will be called for an online interview. Minimum eligibility alone does not guarantee shortlisting. Women are encouraged to apply. Canvassing is a disqualification, and the institute does not entertain interim correspondence. Check the official project-positions page for updates; recruitment queries use projectrecruitment@iist.ac.in or 0471-2568603/643.
Before submitting
Confirm that your first-class qualification matches the listed domains, calculate age using 3 November rather than the closing day, and select the correct category code. The title refers to remote-sensing research, not work from home. A focused project example involving spectral data or machine learning can help demonstrate the preferred exposure, but a particular portfolio format is not stated as an application requirement.
