Botanical Survey of India's Central Regional Centre in Prayagraj is inviting applications for 1 Project Associate-I position under a prestigious three-year research initiative on the molecular systematics and conservation of the Myrsinaceae family in India's Western Ghats, generously funded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.
Overview
This is a temporary research-support position hosted by BSI's Central Regional Centre as part of an ANRF-sponsored Interdisciplinary Research Group (IRG) project. The initiative, titled "Molecular Systematics, Phylogeny and Conservation of the Family Myrsinaceae (Primulaceae: Myrsinoideae) in the Western Ghats of India," combines taxonomic research with conservation objectives, offering aspirants a meaningful opportunity to contribute to botanical science and biodiversity protection.
The role is ideal for early-career researchers and recent graduates passionate about plant systematics, molecular biology, and conservation. The initial appointment is ordinarily for one year and may be extended annually subject to project continuation and satisfactory performance evaluation, potentially providing up to three years of continuous employment and research experience.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date to Apply | 4 December 2026, 5:00 PM |
Application Fee
No application fee is charged for this recruitment. Candidates can submit their applications free of cost.
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Project Associate-I (PA-I) | 1 | CSIR-UGC NET (including Lecturership/Assistant Professorship), GATE, or selection through national-level Central Government examinations preferred; others also eligible |
Eligibility
Candidates selected through CSIR-UGC NET (including Lecturership or Assistant Professorship) or GATE are strongly preferred and will receive higher remuneration. Alternatively, those selected through national-level examinations conducted by Central Government Departments, their Agencies, and Institutions qualify.
Candidates not falling into these preferred categories but meeting other established qualifications may also apply. Age limits adhere to ANRF guidelines and Government of India rules. For complete and detailed eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications, experience requirements, and age restrictions, applicants must consult the official notification.
Salary
| Category | Monthly Emoluments |
|---|---|
| Scholars with CSIR-UGC NET, Lecturership, or GATE qualification | ₹37,000 + HRA (20%) |
| Others | ₹30,000 + HRA (20%) |
How to Apply
- Download the Application Form: Access the official BSI website and download the prescribed application form and the complete notification PDF from the links provided below.
- Read the Notification Carefully: Review the full advertisement to understand all eligibility criteria, required documents, and submission instructions.
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather all supporting documents, such as educational certificates, mark sheets, qualifications (NET/GATE certificates), identity proof, date-of-birth proof, and any other documents mentioned in the notification.
- Fill the Application Form: Complete the prescribed application form with accurate and legible information. Provide all personal, educational, and professional details as requested.
- Scan and Attach Documents: Prepare digital copies (PDF or image format) of all required supporting documents to attach with your application.
- Compose Your Email: Draft a professional email with the application form and all documents as attachments. Use clear subject lines, e.g., "Application for Project Associate-I – [Your Name]."
- Submit Before Deadline: Send your complete application and documents to the email address specified in the official notification before 5:00 PM on 4 December 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
- Keep Confirmation: Retain a copy of your sent email and any acknowledgement receipt for future reference and inquiry purposes.
Important Links
- BSI Project Associate-I Official Notification PDF (Full advertisement with application form and detailed instructions)
- Botanical Survey of India Official Website (Main portal for updates and information)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tenure structure for the Project Associate-I position?
The project runs for three years in total. Your initial appointment is ordinarily for one year, after which it may be extended annually up to the full three-year project duration, subject to your satisfactory performance and the continued availability of project funds.
What qualifications are preferred, and can I apply if I don't have NET or GATE?
CSIR-UGC NET (including Lecturership/Assistant Professorship) and GATE qualifications are preferred and command a higher salary of ₹37,000 + HRA. However, candidates selected through national-level Central Government examinations also qualify. Others meeting eligible criteria may apply and would receive ₹30,000 + HRA. See the official notification for complete eligibility details.
What is the salary I will receive, and does it include other benefits?
Salary ranges from ₹30,000 to ₹37,000 per month plus 20% HRA, depending on your qualifications and category. For information on other benefits, leave provisions, and additional entitlements, refer to the official notification and ANRF guidelines.
Where is this job located, and what exactly will I be doing?
The position is based at the BSI Central Regional Centre in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. You will provide research support for the project on "Molecular Systematics, Phylogeny and Conservation of the Family Myrsinaceae in the Western Ghats." Tasks may include fieldwork, laboratory analysis, data collection, taxonomic studies, and conservation documentation.
How do I submit my application, and what happens after I apply?
Applications must be submitted by email to the address specified in the official notification, in the prescribed format with all supporting documents, before 5:00 PM on 4 December 2026. After submission, you may be called for a written test, presentation, or interview as per BSI's selection procedure. The organization will announce next steps through its official website and direct communication.
Who funds this position, and is there job security after three years?
This post is funded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. It is a project-specific, temporary position. Employment security depends on project continuation and availability of funds. Extension beyond the project period is not guaranteed.
Disclaimer: All applicants must verify the eligibility criteria, application procedures, submission format, document requirements, and deadlines on the official BSI website and in the complete notification before applying. Sarkari Spot is not affiliated with the Botanical Survey of India or any government body.