JRF in Quantum Secure Communication Networks, IIT Delhi (NQM Project, Prof. Parvendra Kumar)

Job Description

This JRF job in quantum communication is at the Optics and Photonics Centre, IIT Delhi. The National Quantum Mission project works on hybrid quantum secure communication networks without trusted nodes. It suits an MSc in physics, optics or electronics with NET or GATE.

At a glance

• Post: Junior Research Fellow, 1 post
• Where: Optics and Photonics Centre, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi
• Pay: ₹37,000 a month + HRA at 27%
• Duration: Renewed yearly, up to the project end (29 January 2031)
• Apply by: 23 October 2026, 5:00 pm, by email

The project is “Towards trusted-node-free hybrid quantum secure communication networks” (MI03131G_SN), a sub-project under RP04940. The Department of Science and Technology funds it under the National Quantum Mission (NQM). The Principal Investigator is Prof. Parvendra Kumar of the Optics and Photonics Centre. The advertisement is IITD/IRD/277/2026, dated 8 October 2026. It is open to Indian nationals only.

About the quantum secure communication project

• Support research on quantum key distribution (QKD) and quantum secure communication links
• Help build and test optical set-ups for quantum communication
• Analyse measurement data and keep lab records
• Help with project reports and papers

The advertisement does not list duties. The points above describe typical JRF work on a project with this title. Ask the PI for the exact tasks at interview.

Why this role matters

Today’s quantum key distribution networks need trusted relay nodes, which are a weak point. This project works on networks that avoid them. India’s National Quantum Mission is funding this work, so JRF experience here is in demand.

Eligibility

• MSc with first class in Physics, Optics or Electronics
• NET or GATE qualification
• NET/GATE may be relaxed for graduates of Centrally Funded Technical Institutes (CFTIs) with CGPA above 8.0 (80% aggregate marks)
• Desirable: experience in quantum optics or quantum key distribution
• Indian nationals only; no age limit is stated in the advertisement

Only shortlisted candidates are called for an online interview. Their names and interview details appear at ird.iitd.ac.in/shortlisted. IIT Delhi may set higher shortlisting criteria. SC/ST candidates may get a 5% relaxation in marks. The post is contractual with consolidated pay, renewed yearly or up to the project end, whichever is earlier.

Pay and duration

• ₹37,000 a month (consolidated) plus HRA at 27%
• Contract renewed yearly, or up to the project end (29 January 2031), whichever is earlier

How to apply

Download Form No. IRD/REC-4 from the IRD website (ird.iitd.ac.in/rec). Fill in your marks or division for each degree and your work experience. Email the form to Prof. Parvendra Kumar at parvendra@opc.iitd.ac.in. Put the advertisement number IITD/IRD/277/2026 in the subject line. Questions on eligibility go to the same address.

Key dates

• Advertisement dated: 8 October 2026
• Last date to email the form: 23 October 2026, 5:00 pm
• Shortlist and online interview details: posted at ird.iitd.ac.in/shortlisted

Please read the official IIT Delhi advertisement IITD/IRD/277/2026 (PDF) before applying, and browse more Junior Research Fellow jobs on ResearchJobs.in.