The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), a premier research organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, is inviting applications from eligible PhD holders for 1 Research Associate (RA) position through a walk-in interview. The recruitment is scheduled for 18 November 2026 at ZSI's Kolkata office, and candidates must attend in person with all required documentation.
Overview
ZSI is a leading institution dedicated to zoological research and biodiversity conservation in India. This recruitment drive seeks to fill 1 contractual Research Associate position with candidates possessing advanced research qualifications and expertise in Zoology or Life Sciences. The walk-in interview process is transparent and allows ZSI to directly assess candidates' research capabilities and suitability for the role.
The selected candidate will be based at ZSI's 'M' Block office in New Alipore, Kolkata, one of India's premier research hubs. This is an opportunity for researchers to contribute to national scientific research and conservation efforts while working with expert teams in a well-established institutional framework.
Unlike online recruitment, candidates must personally attend the walk-in interview with all original documents. This format ensures direct interaction between candidates and the selection committee and allows for immediate verification of credentials.
Important Dates
| Event | Date/Time |
|---|---|
| Walk-in Interview Date | 18 November 2026 |
| Registration Time | 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM |
| Interview Commencement | 11:00 AM |
| Venue | ZSI, 'M' Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700053 |
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Number of Vacancies | Qualification | Monthly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Associate (RA) | 1 | PhD in Zoology/Life Sciences from a recognized University in India | ₹47,000 + Admissible HRA (As per rules) |
Eligibility
Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a PhD degree in Zoology or Life Sciences from a recognized University in India. The PhD must be awarded before or on the date of the walk-in interview. Candidates still pursuing their doctoral studies are not eligible to apply.
Age Limit: The upper age limit is 35 years as on the date of interview (18 November 2026). Candidates exceeding this age limit cannot appear for the interview unless they fall under eligible reserved categories with applicable relaxations.
Age Relaxations: Candidates belonging to reserved categories are eligible for age relaxation as follows:
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes | Up to 5 years |
| OBC-Non Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL) | Up to 3 years |
| Persons with Disabilities (PwD) | Up to 10 years |
Therefore, SC/ST candidates can be up to 40 years old, OBC-NCL candidates up to 38 years, and PwD candidates up to 45 years on the interview date.
How to Apply
- Visit the ZSI official advertisement page and download the application form (Annexure I) and the official walk-in interview notification PDF for complete details.
- Carefully fill in all sections of the application form in the prescribed format. Ensure that your name, date of birth, contact details, qualification, and other information are accurate and complete. Any discrepancy may lead to rejection during verification.
- Prepare all supporting documents in original or certified copy form: PhD certificate, Bachelor's and Master's degree certificates, date of birth proof (birth certificate, Aadhaar, or passport), category certificate (if applicable, issued by the competent authority), and a recent passport-sized photograph.
- Calculate your age as on the interview date (18 November 2026) to confirm eligibility. Apply only if you meet the upper age limit, including applicable relaxations for your category.
- On 18 November 2026, arrive at the venue (ZSI, 'M' Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700053) and complete registration between 10:00 AM and 10:45 AM. Bring your duly filled application form and all original/certified documents.
- Attend the interview when called. Be prepared to discuss your research background, PhD thesis topic, publications, and research experience. Punctuality is important; candidates reporting after the interview commencement time may not be allowed to appear.
Salary
The selected candidate will receive a monthly salary of ₹47,000 plus admissible House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per ZSI rules. HRA is typically determined based on the city/location and your pay grade. Additional allowances and benefits are governed by organizational policies. For detailed information on salary structure, allowances, leave provisions, and other service conditions, refer to the official notification.
Important Links
- ZSI Research Associate Application Form
- Official Walk-in Interview Notification PDF
- Zoological Survey of India Official Website
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What qualifications are required to apply for the Research Associate position at ZSI?
A: Candidates must hold a PhD in Zoology or Life Sciences from a recognized University in India. A completed PhD is mandatory; candidates still pursuing their doctoral degree are not eligible.
Q: What is the upper age limit for this recruitment, and are age relaxations available?
A: The upper age limit is 35 years as on the date of interview. Relaxations include 5 years for SC/ST candidates, 3 years for OBC-NCL candidates, and 10 years for Persons with Disabilities (PwD).
Q: Is the Research Associate position permanent or contractual?
A: The position is offered on a contractual basis. See the official notification for detailed terms, conditions, and contract duration.
Q: Do I need to apply online, or is this a walk-in recruitment process?
A: This is a walk-in recruitment. There is no online application process. Candidates must bring a duly filled hard copy of the application form (Annexure I) to the venue on the interview date.
Q: What documents should I bring to the walk-in interview on 18 November 2026?
A: Bring the completed application form, original PhD certificate or certified copy, date of birth proof, category certificate (if applicable), and any other relevant documents. All originals or certified copies must be presented for verification.
Q: What is the salary and benefits for the Research Associate position?
A: The selected candidate will receive ₹47,000 per month plus admissible HRA as per ZSI rules. Detailed information about other benefits and allowances is available in the official notification.
Candidates are advised to verify all details on the official ZSI website before appearing for the walk-in interview.