How To Become A Scientist In ISRO?

ISRO, an acronym for Indian Space Research Organization, is one of the world’s leading space agencies, known for its cost-effective ventures and advanced technologies. ISRO has successfully launched several missions by putting its best foot forward. In the words of Dr A.P.J Abdul Kalam, one of the greatest scientists of all times – ‘Climbing to the top demands strength, whether it is to the top of Mount Everest or the top of your career’.

As a result, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to become a scientist at ISRO, as well as the educational route that you must take to enter this prestigious space agency via this blog.

How To Become A Scientist In ISRO

For young minds who are wondering how to become a scientist in ISRO, following a proper educational path with all the necessary subjects is of utmost importance. Directly or through the CRB examination, candidates who have sound knowledge and required skills in the fields of astronomy, physics, and mathematics are generally recruited by ISRO.

Given below is a comprehensive summary of the education and specializations you need to know about before becoming a scientist in ISRO:

Steps To Become A Scientist in ISRO

Follow these steps to become a scientist in ISRO:

Step 1

First and foremost, the students need to have MPC subjects (Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry) during their 10+2 level of secondary level education. They should have an excellent aptitude and sound knowledge of Mathematical as well as Physical concepts taught to them.

Step 2

After passing the higher secondary school with an exceptional CGPA or percentage (above 75%), the students should enrol in one of the many engineering branches available through JEE Advanced and JEE mains. Even though the list of best engineering courses is long, the students must pursue BTech or BE in courses such as Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Radio Engineering, and other related fields.

Step 3

On completion of the BTech/BE degree, the third step on how to become a scientist in ISRO is to take the ISRO Centralized Recruitment Board (ICRB) exam. The eligibility for taking this exam is given in the table below:

Eligibility Criteria	Details
Degree Required	BTech/BE in Computer Science, Electronics, Mechanical, or related field
Minimum Marks/CGPA	65% marks or 6.8 CGPA on a scale of 10
Selection Process	– ICRB Exam – Written Test – Interview Round

Note: ISRO prefers to recruit fresh graduates from the top engineering colleges in India such as IISc, IITs, NIT, IIST and other highly reputed government and private institutes. An advantage of pursuing an engineering degree from IIST is that a student with exceptional academic records will be absorbed into the organization.

Step 4

There is also another route on how to become a scientist in ISRO for those who have completed their Master (MSc, ME, or MTech) and PhD in related specializations.

Step 5

On completion of the degree program, Some of the top MTech courses include, such as geophysics, geoinformatics, instrumentation, applied mathematics, etc. For applying directly to the ISRO, the selection process includes a written test and an interview. Clearing this, the candidates can secure a job as a scientist at ISRO.

Step 6

One may apply for a position as a junior research fellow at ISRO, which allows them to conduct research as scientists and engineers. The selection process for a Scientist in such an organization is extremely difficult and necessitates the highest level of intelligence, wits, and a very presentable and relaxed demeanor.

Also read: How to Become a Sports Scientist?

Key Skills Required for ISRO Scientists

ISRO scientists are expected to possess a mix of technical and soft skills. Along with technical skills, various soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking are equally important, as projects often require collaboration with cross-functional teams and clear communication of complex concepts. Essential technical skills to become ISRO Scientists include:

• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions.
• Programming Proficiency: Knowledge of programming languages such as C, C++, Python, or MATLAB is essential for simulation and analysis tasks.
• Project Management: Understanding project life cycles and management techniques to effectively lead initiatives.

Brief Note on ISRO

The Indian Space Research Organisation, based in Bengaluru, is the country’s national space agency. It is run by the Department of Space (DOS), which is overseen directly by the Honorable Prime Minister of India, and the chairman of ISRO also serves as the executive of DOS. ISRO was founded in 1969 to develop and use space technology for national development while also pursuing planetary exploration and space science research.

ISRO succeeded INCOSPAR (Indian National Committee for Space Research), which was established in 1962 by India’s first Prime Minister, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru and scientist Vikram Sarabhai are two of the country’s founding fathers of the Indian space program.

Who Is A Space Scientist?

Space science is the study of the universe by scientists. To become a space scientist in ISRO, you must pursue an engineering or science course. ISRO usually recruits professionals with a master’s in mechanical, electrical or computer engineering or a PhD in Astronomy, Physics, or Mathematics. Physicists concentrate on the field’s theoretical aspects as well as laboratory equipment.

They are in charge of how things work in space, while astronomers research stars, planets, galaxies, and other objects. All roads lead to a career in space science, regardless of the area you select.

How To Become a Scientist In ISRO after 12th?

If you are planning to become a Scientist in ISRO after Class 12, you need to get admission to one of the best institutes in India i.e. Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) which becomes one of the best ways you can join ISRO as a Scientist.

• You can only be eligible for ISRO if you have qualified for BE/BTech with a degree in first class and a minimum aggregate of 65% or CGPA of 6.84
• Here are some of the three exams that you can take to reach ISRO after Class 12:
  • JEE Advanced
  • Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana
  • State and Central Board based Aptitude Test taken by IISER

Courses To Go For In Space Science After 12th

The following are the courses you can choose in space science after your grade 12.

• B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering
• B.Tech in Avionics Engineering
• B.Tech+M.S./M.Tech
• Bachelor’s in Physics (BSc Physics)
• Masters in Physics (MSc Physics)
• PhD in Physics
• B.Tech. in Engineering Physics + M.S. in Solid State Physics, Astronomy, Earth System Science/ M.Tech. in Optical Engineering
• M.Tech in Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical and Computer Science
• PhD in Aerospace Engineering
• Masters in Astronomy (MSc Astronomy)
• PhD in Astronomy
• B.Tech + M.Tech in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, CS {Computer Science})

Also Read: The Unsolved Mysteries in Science and of Our Universe

Top Space Science Colleges In India

Well, apart from answering your question on how to become a space scientist in the top institute in India i.e. ISRO, we have also compiled a bonus list of the top and best space science colleges/institutes in India, just to ease your task of hunting where to study or where to begin from.

1. Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
2. Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram
3. Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay
4. Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur
5. Indian Institute of Technology, Madras
6. Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur
7. Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore
8. Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Pune
9. National Centre for Radio Astronomy, Pune
10. Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Kerala
11. Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences, Nainital
12. Centre for Earth and Space Sciences, (University of Hyderabad)
13. Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad
14. Radio Astronomy Center, Ooty
15. Raman Research Institute, Bangalore
16. Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science
17. Manipal Institute of Technology
18. Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra
19. Madras Institute of Technology, Chennai
20. International Institute for Aerospace Engineering and Management, Jain University Bangalore

How To Become A Space Scientist In ISRO

For those confused about how to become a space scientist in ISRO, worry not as in this section we will provide a detailed step by step guide on how to become a space scientist in ISRO.

Step 1: Students must complete their 10+2 level of secondary education with Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry as their compulsory subjects. They should know the physical concepts of Mathematics.

Step 2: After completing schooling, students must go on to pursue engineering in their higher studies. They can pursue any of the following specialisations in B.Tech/B.E – Mechanical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Engineering Physics, Radio Engineering, and other related fields.

Step 3: Once candidates have completed their B.E / B.Tech, they must appear for the ISRO Centralized Recruitment Board (ICRB) exam. The eligibility for taking this exam is that students must have completed a BTech or BE degree in Electronics, Computer Science, Mechanical or any other related field with a minimum aggregate of 65% marks or 6.8 CGPA on a scale of 10. Students who have cleared the exam will be asked to appear for a round of written tests and interviews conducted by ISRO.

Salary after becoming ISRO Scientist

The gross salary of an ISRO scientist in 2024 is calculated before any deductions such as income tax and professional tax. Following the 7th Pay Commission revision, the initial basic salary for ISRO scientists has been set at ₹56,100. Including additional allowances like the Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, and Transport Allowance, the total gross salary reaches approximately ₹84,360 per month.

Component	Amount (Rs.)
Basic Salary	56,100
Dearness Allowance (DA)	6,732
House Rent Allowance (HRA)	13,464
Transport Allowance (TA)	7,200
DA over TA	364
Total Gross Salary	84,360

Also Read: How to Become an Astronaut in India?

Career Growth and Promotions in ISRO for Scientists

ISRO offers a clear career growth path for its scientists:

• Entry-Level Positions: Start as a Scientist/Engineer ‘SC’ and gain experience through various projects.
• Mid-Level Positions: With experience, you can advance to roles like Scientist/Engineer ‘SD’ or ‘SE,’ which involve leading projects and mentoring junior scientists.
• Senior Positions: Opportunities to become a Project Director or take on leadership roles in major missions arise as you progress.

How To Become An Astronomer In ISRO?

ISRO hires astronomers in two manners:

• Through reputed institutions
• Through off-campus hiring

If you wish to become an astronomer in ISRO, you must study in an ISRO dedicated group for astronomy studies at IISC Bangalore, PRL Ahmedabad, Indian Institute of Astronomy, Bangalore, or Tata Institute of Fundamental Research.

Once you have completed your BTech or MTech, you need to take the GATE exam in Astrophysics. You need to have a position under 200 to get into the top institutes where ISRO comes for recruitment.

How To Get a Job In ISRO After Computer Engineering?

To get a job in ISRO after Computer Engineering, you need to follow this process:

• You need to score at least 65% in your BTech/ BE program
• Your age should be below 35 years of age
• You must take the test by the ISRO Centralized Recruitment Board
• The test includes a written test and an interview to join the team.

Naturally, the candidates would have numerous questions and doubts after reading about how to become a scientist in ISRO. To clear some of your doubts, here are some of the most frequently asked questions asked by many aspiring candidates:

FAQs

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