Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-IARI), New Delhi is recruiting 1 Project Assistant for the Division of Seed Science and Technology. This is a contractual research position funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) with a three-year tenure, offering ₹20,000 per month plus 27% HRA. The application deadline is 25 November 2026, and candidates from biotechnology, molecular biology, and life sciences backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Overview
ICAR-IARI is one of India's premier agricultural research institutions, conducting cutting-edge research in crop improvement, soil science, and agricultural biotechnology. The Project Assistant role is embedded within the Division of Seed Science and Technology and supports a significant research initiative focused on vein necrosis disease of soybean.
The project, titled 'Unraveling the etiology, characterization and seed transmission studies of new viruses associated with vein necrosis disease of soybean,' is a Department of Biotechnology (DBT) initiative. The Project Assistant will work closely with senior scientists and technicians, contributing to field studies, laboratory analyses, and data collection. This is an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers keen on applied plant virology and crop health management.
The position is contractual for exactly three years, with the salary guaranteed throughout the tenure. The work location is New Delhi, making it accessible to candidates across northern India and beyond.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date to Apply | 25 November 2026 |
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Vacancies | Age Limit | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project Assistant | 1 | 21–35 years (as on interview date) | Division of Seed Science and Technology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi |
Eligibility
Essential Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or any recognized branch of life sciences.
- First class marks or OGPA (overall grade point average) greater than 7.5 from a recognized university or academic institution.
- Age between 21 and 35 years as on the date of interview.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Minimum three years of hands-on working experience in basic molecular techniques (PCR, cloning, sequencing, etc.).
- Prior experience with virus screening and identification under both field and glasshouse conditions.
Candidates meeting the essential criteria should note that desirable qualifications significantly strengthen applications, though they are not mandatory.
Application Fee
See the official notification for application fee details. No fee information is currently available in the advertisement.
Salary
The monthly compensation is ₹20,000 plus 27% House Rent Allowance (HRA) for a three-year contractual tenure. The entire pay package is funded by the Department of Biotechnology and is guaranteed for the full duration of the contract. No probation period is mentioned; the full three years constitute the engagement term.
How to Apply
- Review the complete official notification PDF to understand all requirements and annexures.
- Download Application Form (Annexure-I) from the notification, which specifies the exact format for your bio-data and CV.
- Prepare your bio-data or curriculum vitae strictly according to the format provided in Annexure-I; deviation from the template may lead to rejection.
- Compile all supporting documents: graduation certificate, academic transcripts showing marks/CGPA, experience certificates (if applicable), age proof (Aadhaar or birth certificate), and identity proof (PAN, passport, or voter ID).
- Attach your completed form and all documents as instructed in the notification.
- Send your application via email to the designated email address mentioned in the official notification PDF.
- Ensure your complete application packet is received on or before 25 November 2026. It is advisable to send it at least 2–3 days before the deadline.
- Retain a copy of your submission email and any delivery confirmation for records.
Important Links
- Application Form (Annexure-I) – Download the prescribed application template.
- Official Notification PDF – Complete recruitment notice with all details, annexures, and contact information.
- Official ICAR-IARI Website – Check for interview dates, results, and further updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the tenure and salary structure for this role?
A: This is a three-year contractual position. The salary is ₹20,000 per month plus 27% HRA throughout the entire tenure, amounting to approximately ₹25,400 per month (subject to any statutory deductions). The position is funded by the Department of Biotechnology and does not convert to permanent employment.
Q: What background should I have to apply?
A: You must be a graduate in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or any life sciences discipline with first class or OGPA exceeding 7.5. Your age must be between 21 and 35 years on the interview date. Experience in molecular lab techniques and virus screening is highly desirable and will strengthen your candidacy.
Q: What will I be doing as a Project Assistant?
A: You will support research activities under a DBT-funded project investigating vein necrosis disease of soybean. Your work will involve field-based virus screening, laboratory analysis, sample preparation, data recording, and assisting senior scientists with experimental design and execution in the Division of Seed Science and Technology.
Q: Is there an application fee, and how should I apply?
A: See the official notification for fee details. Applications are submitted entirely via email, with your bio-data or CV formatted exactly as shown in Annexure-I of the notification PDF. No online portal or in-person submission is mentioned.
Q: When will the interview be held, and how are candidates selected?
A: See the official notification for interview schedule and selection criteria. Typically, selection involves shortlisting based on qualifications and experience, followed by an interview with research faculty. Final results will be published on the official ICAR-IARI website.
Q: Can I apply if I have a postgraduate degree instead of just a bachelor's degree?
A: Yes. The eligibility criterion specifies