National Geophysical Research Institute

A premier research laboratory of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), advancing fundamental and applied geophysical research for sustainable Earth resource management and hazard mitigation since 1961.

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About NGRI

The National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), a constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), is a leading institution dedicated to multidisciplinary research in Earth, Atmospheric, Oceanic, and Planetary sciences. Located in Hyderabad, Telangana, India, the institute has been at the forefront of geophysical exploration and research for over six decades.

Our mission is to generate new knowledge in geophysical sciences and develop cutting-edge technologies for exploration and sustainable management of Earth's resources, understanding natural hazards, and addressing environmental challenges. With over 200 scientists and 500 technical staff, NGRI operates with a vision to be a global leader in geophysical research.

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NGRI Hyderabad Campus Aerial View

Established

1961

Scientists

200+

Publications

10,000+

Projects

500+

Strategic Focus Areas

NGRI's research is strategically aligned with national priorities and global challenges. Our core focus includes Deep Earth Imaging, Mineral & Hydrocarbon Exploration, Groundwater Resource Management, Earthquake Seismology & Hazard Assessment, Geothermal Energy, Environmental Geophysics, and Planetary Science. We maintain state-of-the-art laboratories and field equipment to support these endeavors.

The institute actively collaborates with international agencies such as UNESCO, IUGG, and partners with leading universities and research organizations worldwide, ensuring our work remains globally relevant and impactful.

Our Research Divisions

Hydrology & Fluid Dynamics

Investigates groundwater systems, aquifer characterization, contaminant transport, and watershed management using advanced geophysical and modeling techniques. Recent projects include mapping deep aquifers in the Deccan Traps and assessing groundwater vulnerability in urban areas.

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Solid Earth Geophysics

Focuses on the structure, composition, and dynamics of Earth's crust and mantle. Research includes seismic tomography, magnetotellurics, gravity and magnetic studies to understand tectonic processes, crustal evolution, and mineral systems. Key area: imaging the Indian shield.

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Seismology

Monitors earthquake activity across the Indian subcontinent, studies source mechanisms, ground motion prediction, and seismic hazard assessment. Operates a network of 150+ seismological stations. Actively involved in developing early warning systems for Himalayan regions.

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Petroleum Geophysics

Develops and applies advanced seismic imaging, rock physics, and reservoir characterization techniques for exploration and production of hydrocarbons. Collaborative projects with ONGC, Reliance, and international oil companies in Krishna-Godavari and Cambay basins.

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Mineral Physics & Geochemistry

Studies physical and chemical properties of Earth materials under extreme conditions. Research supports mineral exploration, geothermal energy, and carbon sequestration. High-pressure laboratories simulate conditions up to the Earth's core-mantle boundary.

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Remote Sensing & Geoinformatics

Integrates satellite imagery, GIS, and geospatial analytics for environmental monitoring, land use change, mineral prospecting, and disaster management. Pioneering work in hyperspectral remote sensing for geological mapping.

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State-of-the-Art Facilities

NGRI houses world-class infrastructure that enables cutting-edge research across the geophysical spectrum. Our facilities are accessible to national and international scientists through collaborative projects and open access policies.

National Geophysical Instrumentation Pool (NGIP)

One of Asia's largest instrument pools, comprising over 500 high-end geophysical instruments: broadband seismometers, magnetotelluric systems, GPS receivers, gravity meters, and ground-penetrating radars. Supports national campaigns for earthquake monitoring, mineral exploration, and crustal studies.

  • Broadband Seismometers: Streckeisen STS-2, Trillium Compact (120+ units)
  • Magnetotelluric Systems: Metronix ADU-07, Phoenix MTU-5
  • Ground Penetrating Radar: Mala ProEx with 100-1000 MHz antennas
Geophysical Instrumentation Laboratory
High Pressure Laboratory Equipment

High-Pressure & High-Temperature Laboratory

Equipped with multi-anvil presses, piston-cylinder devices, and diamond anvil cells capable of generating pressures up to 25 GPa and temperatures exceeding 2000°C. This facility enables simulation of deep Earth conditions for mineral physics and geochemistry research.

  • Walker-type Multi-anvil Press: 1000-ton press for large volume experiments.
  • Diamond Anvil Cell (DAC): Coupled with Raman spectrometer and laser heating.
  • In-situ Measurement: Synchrotron X-ray diffraction (collaboration with ESRF, France).

Recent Publications & News

Featured Publications

"Three-dimensional seismic tomography of the Koyna-Warna reservoir triggered earthquake region"

Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth, Vol. 128, Issue 4, April 2023

"Mapping lithospheric architecture of the Dharwar Craton using integrated geophysical-petrological modeling"

Precambrian Research, Vol. 389, March 2023

"Groundwater vulnerability assessment in rapidly urbanizing regions using GIS and AHP"

Environmental Earth Sciences, Vol. 82, Issue 5, March 2023
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Careers at NGRI

Join our team of passionate scientists and researchers dedicated to unlocking the secrets of the Earth. We offer opportunities for Postdoctoral Fellows, Project Scientists, Technical Staff, and Administrative positions.

Research Fellowships

NGRI offers CSIR Research Fellowships (JRF/SRF/RA) for pursuing PhD in Earth Sciences. Candidates with NET/GATE qualification in relevant disciplines are encouraged to apply. Stipends as per CSIR norms.

Current Openings: 8 JRFs in Seismology, 5 SRFs in Mineral Physics.

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Project Positions

We regularly recruit Project Scientists and Technical Staff for externally funded projects. Positions are typically for 1-3 years, extendable based on performance and project continuation.

Current Openings: Project Scientist-I (Hydrology), Project Assistant (Geoinformatics).

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