JRF at BITS Pilani @₹37,000 per month, starting in January 2027, to explore innovative refrigeration solutions for electric vehicles (EVs) used in last-mile delivery, collaborating with industry.

Company Description Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani is a leading private higher education and research institution in India, widely recognized for its strong emphasis on innovation, industry collaboration, and interdisciplinary work. The Pilani Campus hosts the Smart Building Laboratory within the Department of Mechanical Engineering, focusing on energy-efficient technologies and sustainable solutions for the built environment and emerging mobility needs. The institute offers a dynamic research environment supported by modern laboratories, access to advanced tools, and opportunities to work with industry partners. Researchers at BITS Pilani benefit from a culture that encourages independent thinking, problem-solving, and real-world impact through applied research projects.
Role Description The Junior Research Fellow (JRF) will work full time, pursue PhD research, work at the Smart Building Laboratory, Mechanical Engineering, BITS Pilani, Pilani Campus, starting in January 2027, with a monthly fellowship of ₹37,000. Performance-based fellowship enhancement, Annual contingency grant: ₹20,000, International travel support: up to ₹1.5 lakh. This on-site role focuses on exploring and developing innovative refrigeration solutions for electric vehicles (EVs) used in last-mile delivery, in close collaboration with industry partners. Day-to-day responsibilities include conducting literature reviews, designing and analysing refrigeration and thermal management concepts, performing simulations and experimental investigations, and supporting the development of prototypes or test setups. The JRF will collect and interpret data, prepare technical reports, research articles, and presentations, and contribute to project documentation and communication with industry collaborators. The role also involves regular interaction with faculty members, project team members, and industry stakeholders, while maintaining project timelines and research quality standards. Candidates with their own fellowship support, such as UGC/CSIR-NET, are also encouraged to apply. Such candidates may work on a broader aspect of sustainable technology aligned with their interests.
Prospective candidates are welcome to get in touch to explore this opportunity and discuss their research interests. Write to dasgupta@pilani.bits-pilani.ac.in with resume.
Online application Deadline: 6th November 2026. Application fee ₹ 2600/- (can be refunded after joining). https://bitspilaniedu.com/PHD/OnlineRegistration2026/default?v=639246686791173641
Qualifications
Sound conceptual understanding of Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics.
Minimum 60% marks in the qualifying examination (ME / MTech / MSc)
Programming skills in MATLAB, particularly for solving systems of nonlinear equations.

Work arrangement
No