National Centre for Communication Security Research Associates Scheme

National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS) Research Associates Scheme offers young scholars a platform to contribute to India's telecom security infrastructure. The scheme gives graduates and postgraduates a chance to gain hands-on experience in security standard development, laboratory recognition, and telecom product certification under the Department of Telecommunications.

In 2026, NCCS issued a fresh notification on 21 May 2026 to engage four Research Associates (RAs) under this scheme, with the last date of application later extended to 08 July 2026. Applications are invited periodically based on vacancies, so the scheme stays open for eligible candidates in the coming cycles.

National Centre for Communication Security Research Associates Scheme - Introduction

National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS) Research Associates Scheme engages talented young scholars to help strengthen the telecom security ecosystem in India. By joining this scheme, candidates gain useful experience in areas such as telecom security standard development, lab recognition, and the security certification of various telecom products.

Candidates should keep an eye on the NCCS vacancies page for the latest notifications regarding Research Associate (RA) openings. Typically, applications are invited based on vacancies, usually once a year in line with the academic calendar. The latest 2026 official notification can be downloaded to understand the requirements.

As part of the ComSeC Scheme, NCCS focuses on creating Indian Telecom Security Assurance Standards (ITSARs) to protect the nation from global network threats. Working with this team, candidates collaborate with international bodies like 3GPP, ITU, and IEEE to develop country-specific security standards and support the Department of Telecommunications in policy matters.

The engagement is contractual and time-bound. It is neither a permanent job nor an assurance of a regular post with NCCS. Selected candidates enter into a contract and must follow the rules of the scheme.

Positions and Enrollment

The number of positions depends on current vacancies, and NCCS keeps the right to limit selections as per operational needs.

• A maximum of 18 Research Associates can be engaged at NCCS at any given time.
• The latest 2026 notification invited applications for four RA positions.
• NCCS reserves the right to fill any or all positions based on qualification and experience.

Key Information

Benefits

Selected candidates receive a competitive monthly stipend to support their research and professional growth. The financial details are structured as follows:

This is an all-inclusive amount and required taxes are deducted as per norms. Selected candidates also need to execute a standard contract bond and a non-disclosure agreement on a non-judicial stamp paper of ₹100 as per the recruitment notification.

Eligibility

To apply for this scheme, a candidate must hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, specifically in Electronics, Communications, Telecommunications, Information Technology, Computer Science, or Electrical Engineering, with a minimum of 60% marks or equivalent CGPA.

Weightage is given for additional qualifications as per the selection criteria.

• Higher preference goes to candidates with a valid GATE score or a master's degree in relevant fields.
• A PhD in a relevant subject is highly valued.
• Candidates with at least one year of work experience or a six-month internship with NCCS/TEC get an added advantage.

Age Criteria (as of the notification date):

• Graduate/BE/BTech: Below 28 years
• Post-Graduate/MTech/MS: Below 30 years
• PhD Holders: Below 35 years

Note: If a candidate receives an offer but declines to join, the candidate is barred from applying for the next 2 subsequent recruitment notifications issued by NCCS.

Exclusions

This opportunity is exclusively open to Indian citizens. If a candidate declines an offer after selection, NCCS debars the candidate from participating in the next two recruitment cycles as a measure to maintain administrative efficiency.

Application Process

Applications are submitted through the offline mode. When a recruitment notification is active, candidates must prepare their application using the prescribed form (Annexure I) found in the official notification.

STEP 1 - Download and fill out the application form from the official NCCS website using the prescribed proforma given in Annexure I of the RA scheme.

STEP 2 - Attach self-attested copies of academic mark sheets, experience certificates, and testimonials along with a write-up on your suitability for the role.

STEP 3 - Submit the complete package via post or in person to ADET (HQ), Room 301, National Centre for Communications Security, 2nd Floor, City Telephone Exchange, Sampangirama Nagar, Bangalore 560027.

Make sure the application reaches the destination before the deadline, as incomplete or late submissions are rejected instantly. For any specific queries, candidates can reach out via email to adethq.nccs-dot@gov.in.

Documents

Candidates must provide self-attested copies of the following documents alongside their application:

1. Class 10th mark sheet (as proof of date of birth)
2. Engineering graduation mark sheets
3. Engineering post-graduation mark sheets (if applicable)
4. Valid GATE score card
5. Conversion certificate for CGPA to percentage (if applicable)
6. Relevant work experience or internship certificates
7. PhD certificate (if applicable)
8. Any other documents supporting eligibility

References

Download Official NCCS RA Notification (21 May 2026)

NCCS Official Vacancies Page

FAQ's

What is the full name of NCCS and which department manages it?

The full name is National Centre for Communication Security. It operates as a subordinate office under the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India.

What are the core activities of NCCS?

NCCS implements the ComSeC Scheme and manages three primary divisions: Security Assurance Standards (SAS), Security Lab Recognition (SLR), and Security Certification (SC). More details are available on the NCCS official website.

Is the Research Associate position a permanent job?

No, this position is a contractual engagement for a specific period and does not guarantee permanent employment with NCCS.

Can the contract period be extended?

Yes, the contract may be extended for one additional year based on the recommendations of the internal Performance Appraisal Committee.

How are candidates shortlisted for this program?

Shortlisting follows the criteria laid out in Annexure II of the official RA notification, which gives weightage to academic records, GATE score, institute ranking, and experience.