The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Southern Regional Centre, Chennai has announced a recruitment drive for 4 Research and Project Fellow positions under the Long Term Ecological Observatories (Arthropods) initiative. This is a project-based opportunity for candidates with postgraduate qualifications in life sciences. The application window closes on 20 November 2026, and all submissions must be made via email.
Overview
This recruitment is for specialized research and project roles within ZSI's Long Term Ecological Observatories (Arthropods) project, which focuses on long-term ecological monitoring and research. The positions are structured in two tiers—Junior and Senior—with further differentiation based on whether candidates possess CSIR-UGC NET or GATE qualification. Both NET-qualified and non-NET candidates can apply for Junior and Senior posts, but they will be placed in separate cadres with corresponding salary structures.
Initial appointments are contractual for one year, renewable based on project continuation and performance. The positions are spread across six LTEO regions for Junior roles, with the Senior position centralized at the Chennai Regional Centre. This is a full-time, research-oriented role ideal for candidates seeking field and laboratory experience in ecological science.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Date of Advertisement | 31 October 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply (by Email) | 20 November 2026 |
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Vacancies | Monthly Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (NET/GATE Qualified) | 3 | ₹37,000 + HRA |
| Junior Project Fellow (Non-NET/GATE) | 3 | ₹25,000 + HRA |
| Senior Research Fellow (NET/GATE Qualified) | 1 | ₹42,000 + HRA |
| Senior Project Fellow (Non-NET/GATE) | 1 | ₹28,000 + HRA |
Application Fee
No information regarding application fees is provided in the official notification. See the official notification for any fee requirements.
Eligibility
For Junior Research Fellow (NET/GATE Qualified) and Junior Project Fellow (Non-NET/GATE):
- Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Zoology, Wildlife Biology, or Biodiversity
- Minimum aggregate marks of 65% or CGPA of 6.5 on a 10-point scale
- For Junior Research Fellow: CSIR-UGC NET or GATE qualification is mandatory
- For Junior Project Fellow: NET/GATE qualification is not required
- Age limit: Not exceeding 28 years as on the application closing date
For Senior Research Fellow (NET/GATE Qualified) and Senior Project Fellow (Non-NET/GATE):
- Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Zoology, Wildlife Biology, or Biodiversity
- Minimum aggregate marks of 65% or CGPA of 6.5 on a 10-point scale
- Minimum 2 years of professional experience in data curation, data analysis, GIS, remote sensing, and species distribution modelling
- Demonstrable research publications (peer-reviewed articles or other recognized research outputs)
- For Senior Research Fellow: CSIR-UGC NET or GATE qualification is mandatory
- For Senior Project Fellow: NET/GATE qualification is not required
- Age limit: Not exceeding 32 years as on the application closing date
Document Checklist: Prepare digital copies of your M.Sc. degree certificate and mark sheets, CSIR-UGC NET/GATE certificate or scorecard (if applicable), experience certificates from previous employers, copies of published research papers or evidence of publications, and age proof (date of birth from your 10th-standard or higher board certificate).
How to Apply
- Download the application form from the official ZSI website or obtain it from the notification PDF (Advertisement No. ZSI/LTEO/2026/01)
- Open the form and fill in all sections carefully: personal information (name, date of birth, contact details, address), educational qualifications (degrees, marks, institutions, graduation dates), professional experience (if applicable), and current employment status
- Compile all supporting documents: M.Sc. degree certificate and official mark sheets or transcript, proof of NET/GATE qualification (certificate or scorecard), 2+ years' experience certificates with clear mention of roles and dates (for Senior posts), copies of published research papers with journal references, and age proof (date of birth document)
- Attach the scanned copies of all documents to the completed form as per the order specified in the notification
- Send your complete application by email to the address designated in the official notification before 20 November 2026
- Use a clear subject line such as "Application for [Post Name] – ZSI/LTEO/2026/01"
- Retain a copy of your sent email and the application form for future reference and confirmation
Salary
The salary structure is differentiated by post level and NET/GATE qualification status:
| Post | Monthly Pay |
|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (CSIR-UGC NET Qualified) | ₹37,000 + HRA |
| Junior Project Fellow (Non-NET/GATE) | ₹25,000 + HRA |
| Senior Research Fellow (CSIR-UGC NET Qualified) | ₹42,000 + HRA |
| Senior Project Fellow (Non-NET/GATE) | ₹28,000 + HRA |
HRA (House Rent Allowance) is applicable as per Government of India rules and varies based on the city of posting. The appointment is initially for one year and may be renewed subject to satisfactory performance, project funding availability, and organizational requirements. Benefits and other allowances will be as per ZSI policies and Central Government norms.
Important Links
- ZSI Official Notification PDF (Advertisement No. ZSI/LTEO/2026/01)
- Zoological Survey of India Official Website
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the final deadline for submitting applications?
A: Applications must be emailed by 20 November 2026. No applications will be accepted after this date, regardless of the reason for delay. Email submission time is the deciding factor.
Q: Are candidates with M.Sc. in related fields like Environmental Science eligible?
A: Essential qualification specifically requires M.Sc. in Zoology, Wildlife Biology, or Biodiversity with minimum 65% marks or 6.5 CGPA. See the official notification for clarification on related fields or interdisciplinary qualifications.
Q: Can I apply for both Junior and Senior positions simultaneously?
A: The notification does not explicitly address multiple applications. See the official notification for guidance on whether a single candidate can apply for multiple posts or positions in different LTEO regions.
Q: What is the selection procedure and will there be an interview?
A: The selection process details, including whether shortlisting, interview, or written test will be conducted, are not specified in the provided information. See the official notification for the complete selection methodology and evaluation criteria.
Q: Is there age relaxation for candidates from reserved categories or those with disabilities?
A: Age limits mentioned are 28 years for Junior and 32 years for Senior posts. See the official notification for details on age relaxation applicable to SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PWD candidates as per Government of India norms.
Q: Where will selected candidates be posted, and is there flexibility in choosing preferred LTEO regions?
A: Junior positions are distributed across six LTEO regions, while the Senior position is based in Chennai. Specific details regarding posting location allocation and candidate preferences are not available. See the official notification for posting procedures.
Disclaimer: Candidates are advised to verify all details, including eligibility criteria, fees, important dates, and application procedures, from the official ZSI notification and website before submitting their applications. Sarkari Spot is an independent information portal and is not affiliated with ZSI or any government body.