Central Agricultural University (CAU), Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, through its College of Horticulture and Forestry, is recruiting 1 Project Associate-I (PAT-I) for research on the conservation and sustainable production of elite genotypes of Berberis aristata (Daruharidra) using tissue culture. The position is funded by the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) and offers competitive remuneration with an initial tenure of one year, extendable based on performance. Candidates must submit applications by email by 16 November 2026.
Overview
This is a project-based research position ideal for biotechnology professionals interested in medicinal plant conservation and propagation. Berberis aristata, commonly known as Daruharidra, is a valuable medicinal plant used in traditional and modern medicine. The project aims to develop elite genotypes and sustainable production methods through modern tissue culture techniques, contributing to biodiversity conservation and livelihood creation.
The role offers hands-on experience in applied plant biotechnology, mentoring from experienced researchers, and the opportunity to contribute to an NMPB-funded initiative. Based in Pasighat, a growing hub for agricultural research in northeast India, the position combines theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory work. The initial one-year contract provides scope for extension, making it suitable for candidates seeking to build expertise in plant tissue culture and medicinal plant research.
This recruitment is open to both NET/GATE-qualified candidates and those with relevant master's degrees, ensuring accessibility to a broad pool of talented researchers.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Date of Notice | 05 November 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply (Email) | 16 November 2026 (Monday) |
| Interview | To be communicated to shortlisted candidates via email |
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Number of Vacancies | Essential Qualification | Desirable Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project Associate-I (PAT-I) | 1 | M.Sc. in Agriculture Biotechnology / Molecular Biology and Biotechnology / Plant Biotechnology / Life Sciences | Experience in Plant Tissue Culture |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess an M.Sc. degree from a recognized university in one of the following disciplines: Agriculture Biotechnology, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Plant Biotechnology, or Life Sciences. Any postgraduate degree in these closely related fields from an accredited institution is acceptable.
Age Limit: The upper age limit is 35 years. Relaxations as per Government of India norms are applicable to candidates belonging to reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC) and other eligible groups as defined in official guidelines.
Desirable Qualifications: Candidates with hands-on experience in plant tissue culture, plant propagation, or micropropagation techniques are preferred. Additionally, experience with medicinal plant research, publications in peer-reviewed journals, or participation in research projects strengthens your candidacy.
Selection Process: Shortlisting will be based on academic qualifications, NET/GATE scores (if applicable), relevant experience, and research background. Selected candidates will be called for an interview to assess technical knowledge, research aptitude, and suitability for the role.
Salary Structure
| Candidate Category | Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| NET/GATE qualified (includes CSIR-UGC NET in Lectureship/Assistant Professorship, ICAR-NET, ICMR-NET, or GATE) | ₹31,000/month + HRA |
| Other candidates with M.Sc. degree | ₹25,000/month + HRA |
Contract Duration: The position is offered initially for one year. Extension beyond one year is possible based on satisfactory performance, project continuation, and funding availability as determined by the National Medicinal Plants Board.
How to Apply
- Obtain the Application Form: Download the prescribed application proforma from the Central Agricultural University official website or the official notification PDF.
- Fill Application Carefully: Complete all fields legibly in black ink or type clearly. Provide accurate personal information, educational history, employment record, and contact details. Incomplete or illegible applications may be rejected.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Collect and photocopy certified copies of: M.Sc. degree certificate and mark sheets, birth certificate or government-issued age proof (Aadhaar, PAN, passport), SC/ST/OBC certificate if applicable, NET/GATE scorecard and rank card if claiming NET/GATE qualification, research publications or certificates in plant tissue culture or related areas, internship or project completion certificates, and any other academic achievements.
- Attach Documents: Staple or bind all supporting documents behind the application form in the prescribed order. Ensure no document is damaged or missing.
- Prepare Email Submission: Scan the complete application (form + documents) as a single PDF file. Use a clear, professional email address. Set the subject line as: "Application for Project Associate-I | Advertisement No. CHF/CAU/BSH/NMPB-BA/Project/2026/3871 | [Your Name]".
- Send Application: Email the complete application to the address specified in the official notification PDF. See the official notification for the exact recipient email address.
- Submit Before Deadline: Ensure your email is delivered before 16 November 2026 (Monday). Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. Send at least 2–3 hours before the final cutoff time to account for email delays.
- Keep Records: Retain email delivery receipts, application copies, and communication records for future reference during interview and selection processes.
- Await Selection Communication: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted via email with interview dates, times, and any additional instructions. Check your email regularly.
Important Links
- Official Notification PDF (Advertisement No. CHF/CAU/BSH/NMPB-BA/Project/2026/3871)
- Central Agricultural University Official Website
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is the exact deadline to submit the application?
- A: The last date for email submission is 16 November 2026 (Monday). Your email must be received before 23:59 IST on that date. Late submissions will not be accepted.
- Q: What is the salary structure, and how does it vary?
- A: The monthly salary is ₹31,000 plus HRA for candidates qualified in NET/GATE examinations (CSIR-UGC NET Lectureship/Assistant Professorship tier, ICAR-NET, ICMR-NET, or GATE). For other M.Sc. holders, the salary is ₹25,000 plus HRA. HRA is paid as per funding agency norms.
- Q: What educational qualifications are mandatory?
- A: You must possess an M.Sc. degree in Agriculture Biotechnology, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Plant Biotechnology, or Life Sciences from a recognized university. Experience in plant tissue culture is highly desirable but not mandatory for applying.
- Q: What is the age limit, and are age relaxations available?
- A: The upper age limit is 35 years. Age relaxations as per Government of India norms are applicable to SC/ST/OBC and other eligible candidates. Check official GoI guidelines for exact relaxation amounts in your category.
- Q: How long is the contract period, and can it be extended?
- A: The initial contract is for one year. Extension beyond one year is possible based on performance ratings, project continuation, and funding availability sanctioned by the National Medicinal Plants Board. Extensions are not guaranteed and depend on project requirements.
- Q: How will candidates be selected, and what is the interview process?
- A: Shortlisting is based on M.Sc. qualifications, NET/GATE scores (if applicable), research experience, and academic merit. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews conducted by a panel of experts. Interview details, including date, time, and format, will be communicated via email to selected candidates.
Disclaimer: Candidates must verify all details, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, important dates, salary terms, and selection process, on the official Central Agricultural University website and the official notification PDF before submitting applications.