ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology (ICAR-NIPB) is inviting applications from eligible candidates for 2 Senior Research Fellow (SRF) positions under a National Professor project focused on developing multi-pathogen resistant rice through advanced molecular cloning and novel gene-editing techniques. This is a contract-based, short-term research opportunity ideal for researchers with expertise in plant biotechnology and molecular biology. Applications must be submitted via email with CV and supporting documents by 29 November 2026, followed by a walk-in interview tentatively scheduled for December 2026.
Overview
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) through its National Institute for Plant Biotechnology is conducting this recruitment to strengthen research capabilities in developing disease-resistant crop varieties. The advertisement number for this drive is 2001-2014/SRF/447964/Nov. This recruitment is part of a prestigious National Professor project aimed at leveraging molecular and gene-editing technologies to create rice varieties that can withstand multiple pathogenic threats — a critical need for India's agricultural security and farmer prosperity.
Senior Research Fellows at ICAR-NIPB will work in a dynamic, research-focused environment with access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and mentorship from experienced scientists. The role offers an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers to contribute to groundbreaking agricultural research while building a strong publication record and technical expertise in plant genetic engineering.
The position is suitable for researchers holding a Master's or Doctoral degree in botany, plant science, biotechnology, or related disciplines with demonstrated interest in molecular biology and crop improvement. Selected candidates will be part of a collaborative team working on innovative solutions to global food security challenges.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date to Submit CV and Supporting Documents by Email | 29 November 2026 |
| Walk-in Interview (Tentative) | December 2026 (exact date to be announced) |
Candidates are strongly advised to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid any technical delays in email transmission. Keep checking the official ICAR-NIPB website for announcement of the precise interview date and venue details.
Application Fee
No application fee is specified in the official notification for this recruitment. Candidates applying for the Senior Research Fellow position need not pay any fee to submit their application. However, it is recommended to verify this information on the official notification before applying to ensure no updates have been made.
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Research Fellow | 2 | Upper age limit: 35 years (male), 40 years (female). See the official notification for detailed educational qualifications and other eligibility requirements. |
Eligibility
Age Limit: The upper age limit is 35 years for male candidates and 40 years for female candidates. Age relaxation for reserved categories may apply as per government guidelines — refer to the official notification for specific details.
Educational Qualifications: Detailed educational requirements and subject-specific qualifications are provided in the official notification PDF. Candidates must carefully review the notification to confirm they meet all specified academic criteria before applying.
Other Requirements: Preference may be given to candidates with prior research experience in molecular biology, plant genetics, gene editing, or crop improvement. Experience with CRISPR, TALEN, or other modern gene-editing tools, as well as published research papers in relevant fields, will strengthen an application. However, all specific eligibility criteria must be verified directly from the official notification, as the recruitment is highly specialised.
How to Apply
- Download the Application Form: Access the application form format from the official notification PDF or the ICAR-NIPB website. Ensure you are using the most current version.
- Prepare Your Curriculum Vitae (CV): Develop a comprehensive, well-organised CV highlighting your academic qualifications, research experience, publications, conference presentations, technical skills, and any prior internships or lab work relevant to plant biotechnology and molecular biology.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Collect all required supporting documents such as educational certificates (10th, 12th, Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate degree), age proof (birth certificate or passport), university roll numbers, and any letters of recommendation or testimonials from previous research supervisors or institutional heads.
- Ensure Document Compliance: Verify that all documents are photocopies of original certificates or attested copies, clearly labelled, and organised in chronological order. This preparation demonstrates professionalism and helps the evaluation committee review your application efficiently.
- Compose Your Email: Prepare a clear, professional email with your CV and supporting documents as attachments. Use a subject line such as 'Application for Senior Research Fellow (Advertisement No. 2001-2014/SRF/447964/Nov)' for easy identification and tracking.
- Submit Before Deadline: Send your complete application package to the email address specified in the notification. The deadline is 29 November 2026. Send applications early to account for any email delivery delays or technical issues.
- Retain Proof of Submission: Save a copy of the confirmation email or send receipt for your records. This proof may be required if questions arise regarding your application status.
- Monitor for Interview Updates: After submission, visit the ICAR-NIPB official website regularly for announcements regarding shortlist results and walk-in interview schedules, typically expected in December 2026.
- Prepare for Walk-in Interview: If shortlisted, bring original and certified photocopies of all documents to the interview venue. Be prepared to discuss your research interests, project work, and motivation for joining this research initiative.
Salary
The selected Senior Research Fellow will receive a consolidated monthly salary of ₹37,000 plus 30% House Rent Allowance (HRA). This translates to approximately ₹48,100 per month in total gross remuneration. The position is on a contract basis with an initial tenure of one year from the date of appointment, with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and project continuation. There is no separate provision for other government service benefits, as this is a time-bound research position. Extension decisions will be made based on job performance, project funding, and institutional requirements.
Important Links
- ICAR-NIPB SRF Official Notification PDF (Advertisement No. 2001-2014/SRF/447964/Nov) – Download the complete notification, application form format, and detailed eligibility criteria
- ICAR-NIPB Official Website – Check for interview date announcements, updates, and further recruitment information
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the salary structure for the Senior Research Fellow position?
A: The monthly salary is ₹37,000 plus 30% House Rent Allowance (HRA), making the total gross monthly remuneration approximately ₹48,100. This is a consolidated, contract-based salary with no additional government service benefits.
Q: What are the age limits for applicants?
A: The upper age limit is 35 years for male candidates and 40 years for female candidates. Age relaxation for reserved category candidates (SC/ST/OBC) may apply as per government norms — verify the specific relaxation percentages in the official notification.
Q: How many vacancies are available in this recruitment?
A: There are 2 Senior Research Fellow positions available under this National Professor project.
Q: What is the application deadline, and how do I apply?
A: The last date to submit your CV and supporting documents by email is 29 November 2026. Candidates must email their application in the format specified in the official notification. Applications should include your comprehensive CV, educational certificates, and other required documents.
Q: What is the focus of this research project, and what will the SRF work on?
A: The project is titled 'Development of Multi-Pathogen Resistant Rice by Molecular Cloning and Editing Novel Genes.' Senior Research Fellows will work on developing innovative rice varieties with resistance to multiple pathogens using advanced molecular cloning and gene-editing technologies. This is cutting-edge research contributing to agricultural innovation and food security.
Q: Is extension of the position possible after the initial one-year contract?
A: Yes, the position may be extended beyond the initial one-year tenure based on satisfactory performance evaluation and continuation of the project funding. Extension decisions are entirely discretionary and dependent on the assessment of your work quality, research output, and project requirements.
Disclaimer: All candidates are advised to verify all details, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and instructions on the official ICAR-NIPB notification and website before submitting their applications. Sarkari Spot is an independent information platform and is not affiliated with ICAR or any government body.