ARCI invites science storytellers and designers; applications close 3 November

ARCI’s science communication vacancy

ARCI, an autonomous research centre under the Department of Science and Technology, has one Science Communicator & Designer opening in Hyderabad under post code SC 001. It is a contractual position in the Media Cell. The person works with scientists and technical colleagues to explain materials-science and technology work to industry, policymakers, students, media and the public, combining writing with visual production.

Science writing and outreach duties

Responsibilities include science stories, technical articles, press releases and accounts of research, patents, technologies and institutional events. The selected person helps produce newsletters, annual reports, brochures, presentations and outreach materials. Website and social-channel updates are part of the work, alongside support for exhibitions, public outreach and media interaction. The role therefore needs both editorial judgement and the ability to manage several publication formats.

Essential education and communication ability

Accepted education routes include a master’s in specified communication or media-related disciplines; a master’s in physical, chemical, materials or an equivalent science discipline; or relevant BE/BTech/ME/MTech qualifications in materials science, engineering, technology or an allied field. In every route, candidates must show they can understand and communicate technical concepts. A relevant degree alone does not replace the required communication ability and portfolio.

Portfolio and production skills

A strong portfolio of published or publicly distributed work is essential. It can demonstrate writing, editing, design, social media, publication production or multimedia. Working proficiency in MS Office and contemporary content tools such as Canva or an equivalent platform is requested, along with excellent English. Two years of relevant professional experience is desirable. Advanced design/video tools, CMS and analytics knowledge, and Hindi or Telugu are additional advantages.

Contract, remuneration and age

The initial contract is one year, with possible annual extensions up to three years subject to performance and organisational requirements. Consolidated pay is ₹50,000–₹70,000 a month depending on qualifications, experience and suitability. The normal upper age is 40 on the closing date. Applicable relaxations are described in the notice; candidates claiming one should provide the supporting certificate in the required form.

Email application and closing date

Send the application to rectt@arci.res.in by 3 November 2026. The required package is a detailed CV, a statement of purpose of no more than two pages and relevant work samples or portfolio. The statement should explain motivation and suitability for the position. ARCI states that an application without the statement is not considered and that missing portfolio material may prevent shortlisting.

Screening and verification requirements

ARCI provisionally shortlists eligible candidates from the information in the CV. If invited for personal discussion, candidates must bring the emailed application, supporting self-attested copies and originals for verification, including education and experience evidence, photograph and government-issued identity proof as specified. The notice does not publish a fixed written-test pattern, guaranteed discussion date or selection-round count.

Practical portfolio guidance

Choose work that shows you can make a scientific idea understandable without changing its meaning. For each sample, identify the intended audience and your contribution, particularly if design, writing and research were shared. A short explanation of how facts were checked can be useful. This is preparation advice, not an additional ARCI requirement or a prescribed number of samples.

Before sending the email

Check that the statement stays within the two-page limit and that portfolio links open without an access request. Keep the subject and attachments easy to identify against SC 001 and the advertised position. Confirm the official email and current notice before sending personal documents. The combination of a required statement, portfolio and relevant qualification makes a complete application more important than a generic résumé-only message.

Relevant skills

• Science communication
• Writing
• Publication design
• Multimedia