Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Thiruvananthapuram, a premier government research institute, has announced recruitment for 2 Project Assistant positions to support externally funded research initiatives. This is a significant opportunity for scientists and technical professionals seeking roles in cutting-edge research in microbiology and genomics. The application window opens 30.10.2026 and closes 09.11.2026.
Overview
IISER Thiruvananthapuram is one of India's leading research institutions dedicated to science education and advanced research. The institute is now recruiting Project Assistants to strengthen its research teams working on externally funded projects supported by ANRF (Agency for New Research Funding) and DBT (Department of Biotechnology). These positions are ideal for candidates with hands-on experience in molecular biology, microbiology, genomic analysis, or bioinformatics who wish to contribute to significant research outcomes.
The roles are project-based and time-bound, meaning they are funded for the duration of the specific research projects. Selected candidates will work directly with experienced research teams, gain exposure to advanced research methodologies, and contribute to publications and research outputs.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notice Published | 30.10.2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 09.11.2026 |
| Tentative Joining Date | 15.11.2026 |
Application Fee
See the official notification for complete details on application fee if applicable.
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Vacancies | Desirable Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Project Assistant (Post 01) | 1 | Standard molecular and microbial techniques; experience analyzing bacterial genomic data including WGS (Whole Genome Sequencing) and RNAseq datasets |
| Project Assistant (Post 02) | 1 | Programming proficiency in Python, SQL, and R; experience in analyzing bacterial genomic data (WGS, RNAseq, ChIP-Seq); hands-on knowledge of maintaining Linux-based computer servers |
Salary and Compensation
The position offers a fellowship of ₹27,000 per month plus HRA (House Rent Allowance). This compensation is provided directly from the project's external funding from ANRF and DBT. The fellowship is commensurate with IISER's norms for project-funded positions and provides a competitive remuneration package for research professionals.
Eligibility
For Post 01 (Molecular and Microbiology Focus): Candidates should possess desirable experience in standard molecular and microbial techniques. You must have demonstrated capability in analyzing bacterial genomic data, specifically with exposure to Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and RNAseq datasets. Practical laboratory experience in microbiology and familiarity with bioinformatics tools for genomic data interpretation are advantageous.
For Post 02 (Bioinformatics and Programming Focus): Candidates must have solid programming skills in Python, SQL, and R languages. Practical experience in analyzing diverse bacterial genomic data formats (WGS, RNAseq, ChIP-Seq) is essential. Additionally, you should have hands-on experience with Linux-based computer systems and server administration, as you will be expected to maintain computational infrastructure for the research team.
Both positions require a strong scientific foundation, either through formal qualifications or extensive practical research experience. Candidates with relevant publications or prior research project involvement will be viewed favorably. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a research environment are expected of all applicants.
How to Apply
- Visit the IISER Thiruvananthapuram official recruitment page to access the notification and application form.
- Download the complete notification and read all instructions, eligibility requirements, and desirable experience criteria carefully.
- Review the specific technical requirements for both Post 01 and Post 02 to determine which position matches your expertise best.
- Gather all required supporting documents, which typically may include resume/CV, educational certificates, proof of experience, and any technical certifications or publications.
- Create your account on the online application portal if required.
- Complete the online application form with accurate and truthful information regarding your education, work experience, technical skills, and project involvement.
- Attach all supporting documents in the specified format and file size as mentioned in the notification.
- Review your entire application one final time to ensure all details are correct and no documents are missing.
- Submit your completed application online before the deadline of 09.11.2026 at 11:59 PM (or as specified in the notification).
- Keep a copy of your submitted application reference number for future correspondence.
Selection Process
The selection for these positions is likely to involve evaluation of submitted applications based on matching your experience and skills against the desirable qualifications listed. Shortlisted candidates may be called for interviews or presentations to further assess their technical knowledge, research aptitude, and fit for the specific project requirements. The final selection will be based on merit and suitability for the research project.
Documents to Prepare
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents ready in digital format: a comprehensive resume or CV highlighting relevant experience, educational certificates and degrees, proof of technical skills (certifications in programming or bioinformatics tools), any publications or research papers you have authored or co-authored, reference letters from previous supervisors or colleagues, and specific examples of projects you have worked on related to genomic data analysis or research support.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the last date to apply for the Project Assistant posts?
A. The last date to submit your application is 09.11.2026. All applications must be completed through the online application portal on or before this deadline. Applications received after this date will not be considered.
Q. What is the monthly compensation for Project Assistants?
A. Selected candidates will receive a fellowship of ₹27,000 per month plus HRA (House Rent Allowance) as per the research project's funding guidelines and IISER's norms.
Q. How many Project Assistant positions are available, and what are the differences?
A. There are 2 Project Assistant positions available. Post 01 requires experience in molecular and microbial techniques with genomic data analysis skills. Post 02 requires programming expertise in Python, SQL, and R, plus genomic data analysis and Linux server administration experience.
Q. What technical skills are required for Post 02?
A. For Post 02, you must demonstrate proficiency in programming languages Python, SQL, and R. You also need practical experience in analyzing bacterial genomic data formats such as WGS (Whole Genome Sequencing), RNAseq, and ChIP-Seq, along with hands-on knowledge of maintaining Linux-based computer servers.
Q. What is the expected joining date?
A. The tentative joining date for selected candidates is 15.11.2026. You must be prepared to join by this date as per the project requirements.
Q. What funding agencies support these positions?
A. Both Project Assistant positions are supported by external research grants from ANRF (Agency for New Research Funding) and DBT (Department of Biotechnology), which is why these are time-bound, project-specific roles.
Disclaimer: Candidates must verify all details, eligibility criteria, and application procedures from the official IISER Thiruvananthapuram website before submitting their applications.