The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) invites applications for 1 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position under an INCOIS-sponsored research project. This temporary position is based in Kolkata and offers a fellowship of ₹37,000 plus HRA for a two-month tenure, with the possibility of extension based on project continuation. The application deadline is 11 November 2026, with a strict upper age limit of 28 years as on 30 October 2026.
Overview
The Zoological Survey of India, a premier research institution under the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, is recruiting one Junior Research Fellow under Advertisement No. 03/ZSI-INCOIS/2026. This recruitment is funded by INCOIS (Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services) and aims to fill a research support position at ZSI's Kolkata headquarters.
The position is purely temporary and project-based, lasting two months with the possibility of extension if the INCOIS project receives further funding. This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduate and postgraduate researchers seeking hands-on experience in a government research setting, particularly those interested in zoological sciences and marine research.
Unlike typical government recruitment processes, this position uses email-based application submission, making it accessible to candidates across India. The selection process and detailed eligibility criteria are specified in the official notification.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Date of Notice | 25 October 2026 |
| Age Cut-off Date | 30 October 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply (Email) | 11 November 2026 |
Candidates must ensure their applications arrive in the designated email inbox before 11:59 PM on 11 November 2026. The age cut-off date of 30 October 2026 is fixed for determining eligibility; candidates must be 28 years old or younger on this specific date, regardless of when they apply.
Application Fee
See the official notification for details on application fees, if applicable.
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 1 | Upper age limit 28 years as on 30 October 2026 |
Eligibility
To apply for the Junior Research Fellow position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Age Limit: Candidates must not exceed 28 years of age as on the age cut-off date of 30 October 2026. This upper age limit is strict and is mandatory for eligibility.
- Educational Qualifications: For specific degree requirements, specialization, and academic qualifications, refer to the official notification PDF provided in the important links section below.
- General Requirements: Candidates should have relevant academic background in zoology, life sciences, or related fields as per the job requirements detailed in the notification.
The official notification contains the complete set of eligibility parameters, including educational qualifications, essential and desirable qualifications, and any other specific requirements. Candidates are strongly advised to review the notification thoroughly before submitting their applications to ensure they meet all criteria.
Salary
The selected candidate will receive a monthly fellowship of ₹37,000 plus House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per the norms laid down by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Central Government. The fellowship structure follows government guidelines for research positions and project-based employment.
How to Apply
- Visit the ZSI official website to access recruitment information and download the application form.
- Download the official notification PDF (Advt. No. 03/ZSI-INCOIS/2026) to understand all eligibility requirements, selection process, and application instructions.
- Download the application form from the ZSI website or notification and fill it completely with accurate information.
- Gather all required supporting documents such as educational certificates, proof of age, identification, and any other documents mentioned in the notification.
- Prepare a digital copy of your application form along with scanned copies of all supporting documents in PDF format.
- Compose an email with the subject line mentioning the advertisement number and post name (e.g., "Application for JRF – Advt. No. 03/ZSI-INCOIS/2026").
- Attach the application form and all supporting documents to the email and send to the designated email address provided in the official notification.
- Ensure the email is sent before the deadline of 11 November 2026.
- Retain a copy of your application, email receipt, and all submitted documents for future reference and correspondence.
- Keep the email delivery confirmation or read receipt as proof of submission.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the position and organisation offering this recruitment?
A: The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) is recruiting 1 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) for its Kolkata office under an INCOIS-sponsored research project. This is a temporary, project-based position with a tenure of two months, extendable if the project receives further extension.
Q: What is the fellowship amount and pay structure?
A: Selected candidates will receive a monthly fellowship of ₹37,000 plus House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per the norms laid down by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Central Government.
Q: What is the age limit for this recruitment?
A: The upper age limit is strictly 28 years as on the age cut-off date of 30 October 2026. Candidates must not exceed this age on the specified cut-off date to be eligible.
Q: What is the last date to apply and how should applications be submitted?
A: The last date to submit applications via email is 11 November 2026. Candidates must download the application form from the ZSI website and send it by email to the address specified in the official notification before the deadline.
Q: What documents and information are required for the application?
A: For detailed application requirements, educational qualifications, and document checklists, refer to the official notification PDF available on the ZSI website or through the important links section above.
Q: Is there any application fee for this recruitment?
A: See the official notification for information regarding application fees, if any. Typically, government research fellowships do not charge application fees, but confirm this from the official document before applying.
Candidates must verify all details, eligibility criteria, application requirements, and the email address for submission from the official ZSI notification before applying.