NCRA Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for Latest Vacancies
The National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA), a premier research center of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), has opened its recruitment cycle for 2026. This year's focus is on bolstering the technical and scientific workforce for the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) India project. NCRA is seeking highly motivated candidates for Scientific, Engineering, and Administrative roles, with primary qualifications including BE/B.Tech, M.Sc (Physics/Electronics), and ITI/Diploma for technical cadres.
Active National Centre for Radio Astrophysics Vacancies
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About NCRA Careers:
- Organization Overview: The National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA) is a specialized autonomous institute under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India. It is a world leader in radio astronomy and is responsible for operating the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT), the world's largest radio telescope at meter wavelengths. NCRA plays a critical role in India's contribution to global space research and fundamental physics.+1
- Headquarters: NCRA is headquartered in the Savitribai Phule Pune University Campus, Pune. It also operates field stations at Khodad (near Narayangaon) for the GMRT and Ooty for the Ooty Radio Telescope (ORT).+1
- Key Job Profiles:
- Scientific Officer (C to H): Core faculty and research positions in Astrophysics and Engineering.
- Engineer (C/D): Specialized in Servo, Digital Signal Processing, and Antenna systems.
- Scientific Assistant-B: Technical support for telescope operations and electronics.
- Administrative Assistant-B: Managing HR, accounts, and general administration.
- Tradesman-B: Skilled roles in Electrical, Fitter, and Mechanical maintenance.
- Salary & Benefits: NCRA-TIFR staff are compensated as per the 7th CPC Pay Matrix with additional research-specific allowances.
- Engineer/Scientific Officer: Level-10 to Level-12 (Starting basic pay ₹56,100 - ₹78,800).
- Scientific Assistant: Level-6 (Starting basic pay ₹35,400).
- Unique Perks: Special Performance-Related Incentive Scheme (PRIS), Departmental Canteen facilities, Health Care Scheme (CHSS), and on-campus residential accommodation at Pune or Khodad.
- Selection Process: 1. Written Test: A screening test consisting of MCQ and descriptive questions on core subjects. 2. Skill/Trade Test: Mandatory for technical roles (e.g., Scientific Assistant, Tradesman) to verify practical knowledge. 3. Personal Interview: Final selection for Group A (Scientific/Engineering) and certain Group B posts is based on a rigorous interview panel.
How to Crack NCRA Exams
- Master the Fundamentals: For engineering roles, NCRA focuses heavily on Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and Control Systems (Servo). Ensure you have a strong grasp of FPGA-VLSI design and MATLAB/Python modeling.+1
- Aptitude for Research: In the interview, be prepared to answer questions about why you want to work specifically in a research environment rather than a corporate one. Familiarize yourself with the recent discoveries made by GMRT.
- Practical Proficiency: For technical assistant and tradesman roles, the Skill Test is the "make or break" stage. Practice circuit soldering, multimeter usage, and reading complex electrical blueprints.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions: National Centre for Radio Astrophysics Jobs
What is the probation period for permanent staff at NCRA-TIFR?
Regular employees at NCRA are typically placed on a probation period of one year, which may be extended based on performance evaluation.
Is there a service bond for Trainee positions at NCRA?
Yes, positions like Scientific Assistant (Trainee) often require a bond to serve the institute for at least 3 years after the successful completion of the initial 1-year training.
What is the maximum age limit for Engineer-C roles?
The maximum age limit for Engineer-C (Unreserved) is usually 28 to 30 years, with standard relaxations for SC/ST (5 years) and OBC (3 years) as per Govt. of India norms.
Does NCRA provide travel reimbursement for attending interviews?
Yes, SC/ST candidates and certain other categories called for written tests/interviews are reimbursed 2nd Class (Non-AC) train fare by the shortest route.
Are final year students eligible to apply for NCRA Graduate Trainee posts?
Candidates must typically possess the required qualification as of the "reckoning date" mentioned in the advertisement. If the results are expected before the interview date, they may sometimes be considered.
Can staff members be transferred between NCRA centers?
Yes, all posts at NCRA are transferable within its campuses, including Pune, Khodad (GMRT), and Ooty (ORT).