ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) through its Central Horticultural Experiment Station (CHES) at Chettalli is recruiting for 1 Senior Research Fellow position on a temporary basis, co-terminus with the project on Development of DUS Test Guidelines for Rambutan (Naphelium lappaceum L.). Offline applications are invited with a deadline of 24 November 2026, 5:00 PM, and the personal interview is scheduled for 1 December 2026.
Overview
This is a specialist recruitment drive under Advertisement No. 02/2026/CHES-C by one of India's premier horticultural research institutions under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The Central Horticultural Experiment Station at Chettalli, located in Kushalnagar Taluk, Kodagu District, Karnataka, is a key research hub focused on horticultural science and crop improvement.
The Senior Research Fellow will work on developing Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) test guidelines for Rambutan (Naphelium lappaceum L.), an economically important tropical fruit crop. This is specialized research work requiring expertise in plant breeding, varietal characterization, and standardization of testing protocols. The position is temporary and will continue for the duration of the project, which is presently provisional.
Applicants must apply offline by post only—no email or online submissions are accepted. The institute emphasizes punctuality in the selection process; candidates must report for interviews on the scheduled date (1 December 2026) by 9:00 AM sharp, with interviews commencing at 10:00 AM.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Release Date | 04 November 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Applications by Post | 24 November 2026, 5:00 PM |
| Candidate Reporting Time at Institute Campus | 01 December 2026, 9:00 AM (sharp) |
| Personal Interview | 01 December 2026, 10:00 AM onwards |
Application Fee
No application fee information is specified in the official notification. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification PDF for confirmation.
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Number of Vacancies | Monthly Salary | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Research Fellow | 1 | ₹42,000 + 10% HRA | 35 years (men); 40 years (women) |
Eligibility
For comprehensive eligibility criteria including minimum educational qualifications (such as Bachelor's or Master's degree requirements), essential and desirable experience in horticultural research or plant breeding, and age relaxation provisions under applicable government orders, candidates must carefully review the official notification PDF.
The age limit is 35 years for male candidates and 40 years for female candidates. The position is specifically designed for candidates with knowledge or interest in fruit crop improvement, and particularly in developing testing protocols for horticultural varieties.
Key considerations for applicants:
- Research background in horticultural science or plant breeding is generally preferred.
- Knowledge of DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, Stability) testing methodology, if available, is an advantage.
- Familiarity with Rambutan cultivation or tropical fruit crops may be beneficial.
- Strong technical writing and documentation skills are essential for this research-focused role.
How to Apply
- Download the application proforma: Visit the ICAR-IIHR official website and download the prescribed application format provided for the Senior Research Fellow post.
- Fill out the application form completely: Use blue or black ink (not pencil). Ensure all sections—personal details, educational qualifications, work experience, publications (if any), and contact information—are filled legibly and accurately.
- Gather supporting documents: Collect certified copies of all required documents, which typically include: educational certificates (10th, 12th, Bachelor's, Master's degrees); date-of-birth certificate or Aadhaar; caste certificate (if applicable); reserved category certificate (if applicable); experience certificates from previous employers; research publications or academic achievements; and any other documents specified in the official advertisement.
- Arrange document attachments: Arrange all certified documents in the order specified in the notification. Number each document and prepare a document checklist. Ensure all certificates are attested or self-certified as per the instructions.
- Write a cover letter: Prepare a brief cover letter (1 page maximum) stating your interest in the post, relevant qualifications, and why you are suitable for research on DUS test guidelines for Rambutan.
- Prepare the final package: Place the cover letter on top, followed by the completed application form, then all supporting documents in order. Use a strong envelope and ensure the package is sealed securely.
- Send by post: Address the envelope to: Centre In-Charge, ICAR-Central Horticultural Experiment Station, Chettalli, Kushalnagar Taluk, Kodagu, Karnataka. Send the application by registered post or courier service and retain the postal receipt for your records.
- Ensure timely delivery: Your application must reach CHES, Chettalli on or before 24 November 2026, 5:00 PM. The postmark date alone is not sufficient; the actual receipt of the application by the institute is what matters. Late or delayed applications will not be entertained under any circumstances.
- Confirm receipt (optional): After sending, you may contact the institute to confirm receipt of your application, though this is not mandatory.
Salary
The monthly remuneration is ₹42,000 plus 10% House Rent Allowance (HRA), which makes the gross monthly compensation approximately ₹46,200. This pay structure is valid until 2027-28. As the position is temporary and project-specific, remuneration will be provided only during the tenure of the project. Benefits such as leave, medical facilities, and other entitlements depend on the terms and conditions specified in the official advertisement and the employment letter issued by the institute.
Important Links
- Application Format (Prescribed Proforma) – ICAR-IIHR Official Website
- Official Notification PDF – Advertisement No. 02/2026/CHES-C
- ICAR-IIHR Official Website – Interview List and Official Updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the salary and pay structure for this Senior Research Fellow position?
A: Selected candidates receive a monthly salary of ₹42,000 plus 10% House Rent Allowance (HRA), totalling approximately ₹46,200 per month. This pay is valid up to 2027-28. The position is temporary and remuneration will cease once the project concludes.
Q: What are the age limits for male and female applicants?
A: The age limit is 35 years for male candidates and 40 years for female candidates, calculated as of the application deadline (24 November 2026). For any applicable age relaxation under reserved categories or government policy, refer to the official notification PDF.
Q: How many vacancies are there and what is the employment nature?
A: There is 1 vacancy for the Senior Research Fellow post. This is a temporary position co-terminus with the Development of DUS Test Guidelines project for Rambutan. The tenure is presently provisional and depends on project duration.
Q: What is the only accepted method of submitting applications?
A: Applications must be submitted exclusively by offline post. Email submissions and online applications are strictly not accepted. Your application must reach CHES, Chettalli by 24 November 2026, 5:00 PM. Late applications will not be entertained.
Q: When is the interview scheduled and how should I prepare?
A: The personal interview is held on 1 December 2026, starting from 10:00 AM. Candidates must report at the institute campus by 9:00 AM sharp. Prepare by reviewing the project on DUS Test Guidelines for Rambutan, reviewing your qualifications and experience, and being ready to discuss your research background and interest in horticultural research.
Q: Where should I send my application and what address should be used?
A: Send your completed offline application by registered post or courier to: Centre In-Charge, ICAR-Central Horticultural Experiment Station, Chettalli, Kushalnagar Taluk, Kodagu, Karnataka. The application must arrive by 24 November 2026, 5:00 PM.
Disclaimer: Candidates must verify all details including eligibility criteria, application procedures, required documents, important dates, and selection process on the official notification PDF and the ICAR-IIHR official website before submitting their applications.