The University of Kashmir has officially released a fresh recruitment notification for the post of Research Investigator under the Population Research Centre (PRC), Srinagar. Candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category and domiciled in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir can now apply online for this prestigious opportunity. The recruitment notification, issued under Advertisement Notice No. 15 of 2026 dated 08 May 2026, invites applications from eligible candidates who fulfill the educational qualifications, experience criteria, and other eligibility conditions prescribed by the university.
This recruitment drive is an important opportunity for aspirants looking to build a career in research, population studies, statistics, economics, sociology, and allied social science fields. The Population Research Centre at the University of Kashmir functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and plays a major role in demographic research, field surveys, policy studies, and data analysis related to population and public health issues in Jammu & Kashmir and across India.
The post of Research Investigator carries an attractive Level-6 pay scale ranging from Rs. 35,400 to Rs. 1,12,400 along with other admissible allowances. Apart from salary benefits, the selected candidate will gain valuable exposure to research methodologies, survey operations, statistical analysis, and report preparation in one of the leading academic institutions of the region.
About the Population Research Centre, University of Kashmir
The Population Research Centre (PRC), Srinagar operates under the University of Kashmir and is supported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. The centre is engaged in extensive demographic and socio-economic research aimed at understanding population dynamics, fertility trends, migration patterns, health indicators, family welfare programmes, and social development.
The PRC regularly conducts surveys, research studies, and field investigations which contribute significantly to public policy and academic research. Candidates selected for the post of Research Investigator are expected to participate actively in these projects and contribute to research-based policy analysis.
The University of Kashmir itself is one of the premier higher educational institutions in Jammu & Kashmir and holds an NAAC Grade “A++” accreditation. The institution has consistently played a pivotal role in promoting academic excellence, research innovation, and social development in the region.
Overview of University of Kashmir Research Investigator Recruitment 2026
Below is a quick overview of the recruitment process and important details:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Population Research Centre, University of Kashmir |
| Advertisement Notice | 15 of 2026 |
| Advertisement Date | 08 May 2026 |
| Post Name | Research Investigator |
| Number of Posts | 01 |
| Category | SC Category |
| Pay Level | Level 6 |
| Salary | Rs. 35,400 – Rs. 1,12,400 |
| Job Location | Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Last Date to Apply | 12 June 2026 |
| Official Website | University of Kashmir Official Website |
The notification clearly states that the post is temporary but likely to continue subject to continuation of the Population Research Centre by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Vacancy Details
The recruitment notification includes one vacancy for the post of Research Investigator under the Scheduled Caste category.
| Post Name | Number of Posts | Category | Post Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Investigator | 01 | SC | PGD-PR-5 |
The position is specially reserved for eligible SC candidates who are domiciles of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.
Salary and Pay Scale
The selected candidate will receive salary under Pay Level-6 with a pay scale of:
Rs. 35,400 – Rs. 1,12,400
In addition to the basic pay, several allowances and benefits are admissible, including:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- Medical Allowance
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Other admissible allowances
The recruitment notice also mentions that Contributory Provident Fund (CPF), National Pension System (NPS), gratuity, and leave encashment will be applicable as per government rules and ministry guidelines.
For candidates seeking financial stability and a research-oriented career, this opportunity offers both professional growth and respectable compensation.
Educational Qualification Required
Candidates applying for the Research Investigator post must possess at least a second-class postgraduate degree in any of the following subjects:
- Demography
- Population Studies
- Statistics
- Economics
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Anthropology
- Geography
Additionally, candidates must have knowledge of computer applications.
The inclusion of multiple academic disciplines broadens the scope for applicants from both quantitative and social science backgrounds.
Experience Requirement
Applicants are required to possess:
Three years of experience in data collection, data analysis, and report writing.
However, the experience condition may be relaxed for candidates possessing higher qualifications.
This means candidates holding M.Phil., Ph.D., advanced research experience, or exceptional academic credentials may receive consideration even if their work experience is slightly below the prescribed duration.
Domicile Requirement
The recruitment notification specifically states that the applicant must be a:
Domicile of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.
Candidates should ensure they possess valid domicile certificates issued by competent authorities before applying online.
Important Dates
Applicants must carefully note all important dates associated with the recruitment process.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Start of Online Applications | 13 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 12 June 2026 |
| Last Date for Hard Copy Submission (In-service candidates only) | 16 June 2026 |
Candidates are advised not to wait until the final date to submit their applications, as heavy traffic on the website may lead to technical issues.
Application Fee
The application fee structure prescribed by the University is as follows:
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| Open Category | Rs. 750 |
| Reserved Category | Rs. 500 |
| PwD Candidates | Exempted |
The application fee must be paid through online mode only.
Since the vacancy falls under the reserved category, eligible SC candidates will need to pay Rs. 500 as application fee.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply Online
Candidates can follow the detailed application procedure mentioned in the recruitment notification:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official website of the University of Kashmir:
University of Kashmir Recruitment Portal
Click on the “Jobs/Recruitment” section.
Step 2: Register as an Applicant
New candidates must first complete registration by clicking on “Register as an Applicant”.
During registration:
- Use a valid mobile number
- Use an active email ID
- Create login credentials carefully
The notification advises candidates to remember their username and password for future reference.
Step 3: Fill the Online Application Form
After successful registration:
- Login using username and password
- Enter personal details
- Fill educational qualifications
- Add work experience
- Upload necessary documents
Candidates should carefully preview all entries before final submission because editing will not be allowed after submission.
Step 4: Pay Application Fee
Pay the prescribed application fee online using available payment options.
After successful payment:
- Download the submitted application form
- Take a printout for future reference
Step 5: Hard Copy Submission (If Applicable)
Only shortlisted applicants will be asked to produce self-attested hard copies and supporting documents as and when required.
In-service candidates may need to submit hard copies through proper administrative channels.
Age Limit Criteria
The notification prescribes the following age criteria as on 01 January 2026:
| Category | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| Open Merit | 40 Years |
| Physically Challenged | 42 Years |
| SC/ST/OBC/EWS/LAC/IB | 43 Years |
| In-service State University Employees | 50 Years |
Minimum age for all candidates is 18 years.
There is no age bar for in-service candidates of the University of Kashmir.
Nature of the Job
The post of Research Investigator involves a variety of responsibilities including:
- Conducting field surveys
- Collecting demographic data
- Performing statistical analysis
- Preparing research reports
- Assisting research teams
- Coordinating with project staff
- Managing documentation
- Data entry and verification
- Participating in academic and policy studies
Candidates with strong analytical abilities, communication skills, and proficiency in computer applications will have an advantage during selection.
Selection Process
The notification states that eligible candidates shall undergo:
- Screening
- Shortlisting
- Selection process determined by the University
The exact method may include:
- Written test
- Skill assessment
- Interview
- Document verification
The University will notify candidates separately regarding further stages of recruitment.
Documents Required
Candidates should keep the following documents ready while applying online:
- Domicile Certificate
- Category Certificate
- Educational Certificates
- Marks Sheets
- Experience Certificates
- Computer Qualification Certificate
- Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- Valid ID Proof
All uploaded and submitted documents must be self-attested and genuine.
Important Instructions for Candidates
The recruitment notice contains several important instructions that applicants should carefully read before applying.
Apply Only If Eligible
Only those candidates who fulfill eligibility conditions on or before the last date of submission should apply.
Incomplete Applications Will Be Rejected
Applications received:
- Late
- Incomplete
- Improperly formatted
shall not be entertained by the University.
Government Employees Must Apply Through Proper Channel
Candidates already employed in:
- Government departments
- Universities
- Private institutions
must route applications through proper administrative authorities.
No TA/DA
No travel allowance or daily allowance will be paid for appearing in interviews or tests.
Beware of False Documents
Submission of fabricated or tampered documents can result in:
- Criminal prosecution
- Cancellation of candidature
- Termination from service
Why This Recruitment is Important
The University of Kashmir Research Investigator Recruitment 2026 is significant for several reasons.
1. Prestigious Institution
The University of Kashmir is among the top educational institutions in Jammu & Kashmir and offers excellent academic and professional exposure.
2. Government-Supported Research Opportunity
The Population Research Centre functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, making this position valuable for candidates interested in public policy and social research.
3. Attractive Salary
The Level-6 pay structure provides a competitive salary along with allowances and future benefits.
4. Research Career Growth
Candidates can build expertise in:
- Population studies
- Data analytics
- Survey methodologies
- Social science research
- Public health research
5. Opportunity for SC Candidates
This recruitment exclusively benefits eligible Scheduled Caste candidates from Jammu & Kashmir, helping improve representation in research institutions.
Tips to Prepare for the Recruitment Process
Candidates aspiring to secure this position should focus on:
Improve Subject Knowledge
Revise core concepts related to:
- Statistics
- Demography
- Research methodology
- Population studies
- Sociology
- Data analysis
Learn Computer Applications
Since computer knowledge is mandatory, candidates should practice:
- MS Excel
- MS Word
- Data entry tools
- Statistical software basics
Strengthen Research Skills
Candidates should understand:
- Field survey techniques
- Sampling methods
- Questionnaire preparation
- Report writing
Prepare Documents Early
Avoid last-minute problems by arranging:
- Certificates
- Photographs
- Experience proof
- Category documents
well in advance.
Re-advertisement Notice
The notification mentions that the post has been re-advertised due to poor response from eligible candidates in the earlier advertisement issued on 27 December 2024. Candidates who had applied previously are required to apply afresh if they wish to be considered again.
This fresh opportunity gives eligible candidates another chance to participate in the recruitment process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the last date to apply?
The last date to submit online applications is 12 June 2026.
How many vacancies are available?
There is one vacancy available for the post of Research Investigator.
Which category is eligible?
The vacancy is reserved for SC Category candidates.
What is the salary?
The salary ranges from Rs. 35,400 to Rs. 1,12,400 under Pay Level-6.
Is experience mandatory?
Yes, three years of experience in data collection, analysis, and report writing is required, though relaxable for candidates with higher qualifications.
Is the application process online?
Yes, applications must be submitted online through the University website.
The University of Kashmir Research Investigator Recruitment 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for eligible SC candidates in Jammu & Kashmir who wish to pursue a career in research and public policy studies. With a strong salary structure, research-oriented work environment, and the reputation of the University of Kashmir, this position offers excellent career growth for qualified aspirants.
Candidates are strongly advised to read the official advertisement carefully, ensure eligibility, and complete the online application process well before the deadline. Since the position is connected to an important research centre under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, selected candidates will gain exposure to impactful demographic and social research initiatives.
Applicants should regularly visit the official University website for updates regarding screening, shortlisting, interview schedules, and further notices.
