BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus, Department of Biological Sciences, invites applications for the position of Project Technical Support-III (Research Scholar) for an ICMR-sponsored research project titled "Implementing a digital platform for the real-time capturing, monitoring and control of malaria among the migrant labourers in Goa state (VBD/NIMR/Intra/0010/CD-II)." The position is available for 3 years with competitive fellowship and hostel accommodation. The research focuses on machine learning-based approaches in mosquito surveillance. Selected candidates will be strongly supported to pursue PhD at BITS Pilani.
BITS Pilani Research Scholar Recruitment 2026 - Overview
| Institute Name | BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus |
| Campus Location | Goa, India |
| Department | Department of Biological Sciences |
| Position Title | Project Technical Support-III (Research Scholar) |
| Total Vacancies | 1 Post |
| Project Title | Implementing a digital platform for the real-time capturing, monitoring and control of malaria among the migrant labourers in Goa state |
| Project Code | VBD/NIMR/Intra/0010/CD-II |
| Funding Agency | ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) |
| Project Duration | 3 Years |
| Research Area | Machine Learning (ML) based approaches in Mosquito Surveillance |
| Principal Investigator | Dr. Tusar Tirtha Saha (Co-PI) |
| Co-Investigator | Dr. Sougata Sen |
| Last Date for Application | 08-02-2026 |
| Application Mode | |
| Official Website | https://www.bits-pilani.ac.in |
Vacancy Details
| Sl. No. | Position | No. of Posts | Monthly Fellowship | Project Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Project Technical Support-III (Research Scholar) | 01 | Rs. 28,000 + HRA (Total: Rs. 33,600/-) | 3 Years |
| Total Vacancies: 1 Position | ||||
Eligibility Criteria
Essential Qualifications
- Option 1: Postgraduate degree (M.Sc.) in Basic Sciences from a recognized university
- M.Sc. in Biological Sciences, Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Zoology, Botany, etc.
- M.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry, or related basic sciences
- OR Option 2: Graduate/Postgraduate degree in professional course
- B.E. or B.Tech in Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Information Technology, etc.
- M.E. or M.Tech in Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, etc.
Desirable Qualifications
- Programming Knowledge: Working knowledge of programming languages (Python, R, Java, C++, etc.)
- Computational Biology: Strong background or experience in computational biology, bioinformatics, or data science
- Machine Learning: Familiarity with machine learning algorithms and frameworks
- Research Experience: Prior research experience in biological sciences, epidemiology, or public health
- Data Analysis: Experience with biological data analysis and visualization
Preferred Profile
- Candidates with a strong background in both biology and computational/programming skills are highly preferred
- Interest in applying ML approaches to disease surveillance and public health problems
- Experience with vector biology or epidemiology
- Familiarity with mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, dengue, etc. (preferred)
Project Details
Project Title
Implementing a digital platform for the real-time capturing, monitoring and control of malaria among the migrant labourers in Goa state
Project Code
VBD/NIMR/Intra/0010/CD-II
Funding Agency
ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research)
Project Duration
3 Years
Research Focus
Machine Learning (ML) based approaches in Mosquito Surveillance
Project Overview
- Objective: Develop and implement a digital platform for real-time capturing, monitoring, and control of malaria among migrant laborers in Goa state
- Technology: Utilizes machine learning and advanced data analytics for surveillance
- Geographic Focus: Goa State, India, with emphasis on migrant laborer populations
- Public Health Impact: Aimed at improving malaria control and surveillance in vulnerable populations
- Technical Components: Digital platform development, data collection, ML model development, surveillance integration
Principal Investigator
Dr. Tusar Tirtha Saha (Co-Principal Investigator)
Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus
Co-Investigator
Dr. Sougata Sen
Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus
Fellowship & Compensation
Monthly Fellowship
- Base Fellowship: Rs. 28,000/- per month
- HRA (House Rent Allowance): Rs. 5,600/- per month
- Total Monthly Fellowship: Rs. 33,600/- per month
Additional Benefits
- Hostel Accommodation: Will be provided by BITS Pilani (subject to availability)
- Accommodation Rules: Governed by BITS Pilani rules and regulations at the time of joining
- PhD Support: Selected candidate will be strongly supported to apply for PhD degree at BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus
Payment & Disbursement
- Fellowship will be disbursed monthly on ICMR sponsored research project basis
- Subject to availability of project funds and satisfactory performance
- May be subject to GST and applicable deductions as per ICMR norms
Key Responsibilities
Expected Duties & Responsibilities
- Technical Support: Provide technical support to the research project team for day-to-day activities
- Data Management: Assist in collection, processing, and management of research data
- Platform Development: Contribute to development and testing of the digital surveillance platform
- ML Implementation: Assist in implementing and validating machine learning models
- Field Work: Support field surveys and data collection activities related to mosquito surveillance
- Documentation: Maintain detailed records of project activities, experiments, and results
- Analysis: Perform data analysis using statistical and computational methods
- Collaboration: Work collaboratively with project team members and investigators
- Reporting: Prepare reports and present findings as required by project timeline
- Research Publication: Contribute to research papers and presentations (co-authorship likely)
Important Dates
| Event | Date/Timeline |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Date | 08-02-2026 (Extended Date) |
| Last Date for Application Submission | 08-02-2026 (by end of day) |
| Interview (Expected) | To be scheduled for shortlisted candidates |
| Interview Mode | Online/Personal at BITS Pilani, Goa Campus |
| Interview TA/DA | Not admissible |
| Project Duration | 3 Years from joining date |
Application Process
How to Apply
- Prepare Application: Interested candidates should prepare:
- Formal application letter expressing interest in the position
- Detailed curriculum vitae (CV) with complete academic and professional details
- Details of research experience with specific projects and outcomes
- List of publications (if any)
- Contact details of references/previous supervisors
- Compile Documents: Prepare all documents in a single email
- Send Email: Send application and CV to Principal Investigator:
- Email ID: [email protected]
- Subject Line: "Application for Project Technical Support-III Position - [Your Name]"
- Deadline: Application must be received by 08-02-2026 (same as advertisement date)
- Shortlisting: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted via email for interview
Required Documents
- Application Letter: Expression of interest and motivation for the position
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailed CV including:
- Personal information (Name, DOB, Contact details)
- Educational qualifications with marks/grades and institution details
- All research experience with project titles, duration, and outcomes
- Technical skills (programming languages, software, tools)
- Publications and presentations (if any)
- Awards and achievements
- References
- Research Experience Details: Description of previous research work including:
- Project title and objectives
- Your role and responsibilities
- Duration and outcomes
- Technical skills applied
- Academic Certificates: Copies of educational degree certificates and mark sheets (if submitting electronically, scanned copies acceptable)
- Certificates of Experience: If applicable, certificates from previous employers/supervisors
- Passport-size Photograph: Recent photograph (optional but recommended)
Important Instructions
- Deadline is Strict: Applications received after 08-02-2026 will NOT be considered
- Email Only: Applications must be sent via email; no other mode will be accepted
- Complete Application: Submit complete CV and details; incomplete applications may not be shortlisted
- Accuracy: All information must be accurate; false information will lead to disqualification
- Subject Line: Use clear subject line for email identification
- File Format: Submit as PDF or Word document for better formatting preservation
- Shortlisting: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted; others will not receive communication
Selection Process
Selection Stages
- Stage 1: Application Screening
- All applications will be screened for eligibility and completeness
- Applications will be evaluated based on qualifications, experience, and suitability for the research project
- Shortlisted candidates will be identified
- Stage 2: Interview
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview
- Interview Mode: Online or Personal (at BITS Pilani, Goa Campus)
- Interview will assess technical knowledge, research aptitude, communication skills, and project fit
- Interview Details: Date, time, and mode will be communicated via email to shortlisted candidates
- Stage 3: Selection & Offer
- Final selection will be made based on interview performance and qualifications
- Selected candidate will receive formal offer letter
- Offer will specify joining date and project-related details
Selection Criteria
- Educational qualifications (M.Sc. or B.E./B.Tech/M.E./M.Tech as per eligibility)
- Relevant research and technical experience
- Programming and computational skills
- Understanding of the research area (malaria surveillance, ML, public health)
- Communication and presentation skills
- Interview performance and aptitude for research
- Overall fit for the 3-year project requirements
- Interest in pursuing PhD (as project offers PhD support)
Terms & Conditions
Employment Terms
- Position Type: Research Scholar/Project Based position
- Duration: 3 Years (renewable based on project continuation and performance)
- Basis: ICMR-sponsored research project
- Location: BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus, Goa
- Reporting: Will report to Co-Principal Investigator, Dr. Tusar Tirtha Saha
- Fellowship: Contingent on ICMR fund availability and satisfactory performance
Accommodation Terms
- Hostel Accommodation: Provided subject to availability at the time of joining
- Rules & Regulations: Accommodation will be governed by BITS Pilani hostel rules and regulations
- Charges: If any charges applicable, will be as per BITS Pilani hostel fee structure
- Other Arrangements: If hostel accommodation not available, candidate should arrange own accommodation
PhD Opportunity
- Support: Selected candidate will be strongly supported to apply for PhD degree at BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus
- PhD Rules: Rules and regulations of BITS Pilani PhD program will be applicable
- Dual Role: Can pursue PhD while working as Project Technical Support (subject to PhD program policies)
- Not Guaranteed: PhD admission will be subject to meeting BITS Pilani PhD eligibility and selection criteria
- Research Continuity: PhD research can likely be aligned with current project work
General Terms
- Nature of Employment: Project-based research position (not regular employment)
- At-Will Employment: Either party can terminate with appropriate notice
- Performance Review: Periodic performance review for fellowship continuation
- Confidentiality: Bound by confidentiality for research data and project information
- Intellectual Property: Publications and research output will follow ICMR/BITS Pilani guidelines
- No TA/DA: No Travel Allowance or Dearness Allowance for interview
- Decision Final: All decisions by Principal Investigator and Institute will be final and binding
About BITS Pilani & Department
BITS Pilani Overview
BITS Pilani is a private research-led university recognized as a Deemed-to-be University in India. It has multiple campuses across India and is known for its engineering, sciences, and research programs. BITS Pilani has a strong focus on research and innovation.
K. K. Birla Goa Campus
The Goa campus of BITS Pilani is located in Goa and houses the Department of Biological Sciences along with other departments. It provides excellent research facilities and is known for biological and medical research.
Department of Biological Sciences
The Department of Biological Sciences at BITS Pilani, Goa Campus, conducts research in various areas of biological sciences including microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, and public health. The department collaborates with national and international research organizations for sponsored research projects.
Contact Information
| Position Title | Project Technical Support-III |
| Department | Department of Biological Sciences |
| Campus | BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus, Goa |
| Principal Investigator | Dr. Tusar Tirtha Saha |
| Email for Application | [email protected] |
| Funding Agency | ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) |
| Official Website | https://www.bits-pilani.ac.in |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Position & Project Questions
Q: What is the position about?
A: This is a Project Technical Support-III position for an ICMR-sponsored research project focused on implementing a digital platform for malaria surveillance and control among migrant laborers in Goa. The role involves supporting research on machine learning-based mosquito surveillance approaches.
Q: Is this a permanent job?
A: No, this is a research scholar/project-based position for 3 years initially. It is contingent on ICMR project funding continuation and your performance. It can potentially be extended if the project is extended.
Q: What will be my main responsibilities?
A: You will provide technical support to the research team, assist in data collection and processing, help develop and test the digital platform, contribute to machine learning model implementation, perform data analysis, and support field surveys related to mosquito surveillance.
Q: Can I pursue PhD while working in this position?
A: Yes, the position explicitly states that selected candidates will be "strongly supported to apply for PhD degree at BITS Pilani." You may be able to pursue PhD while working on the project (subject to PhD program policies).
Eligibility Questions
Q: I have M.Sc. in Chemistry. Am I eligible?
A: Yes, M.Sc. in any basic science (including Chemistry) makes you eligible. However, the notification mentions malaria and mosquito surveillance as research area, so biology background would be more relevant. You can still apply if you have programming or computational skills.
Q: I have B.Tech. in Computer Science. Can I apply?
A: Yes, B.Tech is an eligible qualification as per "Graduate/Postgraduate degree in professional course" category. Having computer science background with programming skills is actually very valuable for this ML-focused project.
Q: What programming languages should I know?
A: The notification says "working knowledge of programming," so proficiency in any programming language like Python, R, Java, C++ would be helpful. Python and R are particularly useful for machine learning and data analysis work.
Q: I don't have prior research experience. Can I still apply?
A: Yes, the notification doesn't explicitly require research experience, though it's desirable. If you have strong academic qualifications and programming skills, you can apply. Mention any relevant academic projects or assignments in your CV.
Q: What does "strong background in computational biology" mean?
A: It means experience or knowledge in applying computational/programming approaches to biological data analysis, bioinformatics, or data science applied to biological problems. If you have coursework or projects in bioinformatics, data science applied to biology, or similar, mention these.
Salary & Benefits Questions
Q: What is the total monthly fellowship?
A: Rs. 28,000 base + Rs. 5,600 HRA = Rs. 33,600 per month total.
Q: Is hostel accommodation free?
A: Hostel accommodation will be provided, but charges (if any) will be as per BITS Pilani hostel fee structure. The notification doesn't specify if it's free or charged.
Q: Are there other benefits like medical, insurance, PF?
A: The notification mentions only fellowship and hostel accommodation. As a research scholar on ICMR-sponsored project, other benefits may be limited. You should contact Dr. Tusar Tirtha Saha for details on other benefits.
Q: Will I get fellowship during PhD if I pursue it?
A: If you pursue PhD at BITS Pilani, your fellowship arrangements may change per PhD program rules. You would likely receive PhD stipend instead, but this should be clarified with the PhD program administrators.
Application & Interview Questions
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: The deadline is 08-02-2026 (same as advertisement date, which is unusually tight). Applications received after this date will not be considered.
Q: How should I send my application?
A: Send your application and detailed CV via email to [email protected] with a clear subject line.
Q: What should be the subject line of my email?
A: A suitable subject could be "Application for Project Technical Support-III Position - [Your Name]" or similar.
Q: Do I need to send original documents?
A: No, send scanned/digital copies with your application. Original documents will be required if selected for interview or before joining.
Q: When will interviews be conducted?
A: Interview date will be notified to shortlisted candidates via email. The notification doesn't mention specific dates.
Q: Will interview be online or offline?
A: The notification mentions "Online/Personal interview to be held at BITS Pilani, Goa Campus." Likely online, but clarify with Dr. Saha when called for interview.
Q: Will I get TA/DA for the interview?
A: No, the notification explicitly states "no TA/DA will be paid for the Interview."
Q: Will I be notified if not shortlisted?
A: The notification mentions that "only shortlisted candidates will be contacted." Rejected candidates may not receive communication.
Project & Research Questions
Q: What is the malaria project about?
A: The project develops a digital platform for real-time capturing, monitoring, and control of malaria among migrant laborers in Goa state. It uses machine learning approaches for mosquito surveillance as part of malaria control strategy.
Q: Why focus on migrant laborers?
A: Migrant laborers in Goa are a vulnerable population for malaria. The project aims to improve surveillance and control of malaria specifically in this population group through technology and ML approaches.
Q: What will I learn from this position?
A: You will gain practical experience in: (1) Applied machine learning for surveillance; (2) Field epidemiology and disease surveillance; (3) Data collection and management; (4) Digital platform development; (5) Research project management; (6) Public health applications of technology.
Q: Will I get authorship on publications?
A: Likely yes, if you contribute significantly. Publications typically follow ICMR and BITS Pilani guidelines. Discuss authorship expectations with Dr. Saha after joining.
Work & Location Questions
Q: Where exactly will I work?
A: At BITS Pilani, K. K. Birla Goa Campus in Goa. You may also conduct field visits for data collection related to mosquito surveillance in Goa.
Q: Will there be field work involved?
A: Yes, the project description mentions "field surveys and data collection activities related to mosquito surveillance." You should be willing to conduct field work.
Q: Is hostel accommodation mandatory?
A: No, it's offered if available. If not available, you can arrange your own accommodation (not reimbursed).
Q: What is the work schedule?
A: Standard BITS Pilani office/lab hours. Likely Monday-Friday, standard working hours, but may need to adjust for field activities.
Important Links
| Official Notification & Advertisement (PDF) | Click here |
| Official Website | Click here |
| Email for Application | [email protected] |
| BITS Pilani Goa Campus | www.bits-pilani.ac.in |