ICAR-IARI Research Associate & SRF Jobs 2026 | TrueJobs

About the Organisation

The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), commonly known as Pusa Institute, is India's premier national institute for agricultural research, education, and extension. Established in 1905, it operates under the aegis of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). IARI plays a pivotal role in agricultural science, contributing significantly to the Green Revolution in India. The Division of Genetics, a core component of IARI, is at the forefront of research in crop improvement, genetic engineering, and molecular breeding, aiming to develop high-yielding and disease-resistant crop varieties. This division is instrumental in addressing national food security challenges through innovative genetic research.

Role & Responsibilities

Selected candidates for the Research Associate (RA) and Senior Research Fellow (SRF) positions will be integral to ongoing DBT and ICAR-funded projects within the Division of Genetics.

• Research Associate (RA): Primarily involves conducting advanced research experiments, data analysis, manuscript preparation, and contributing to project reports. RAs are expected to lead specific research modules, guide junior researchers, and present findings at national/international forums. They will be responsible for developing and implementing research methodologies, ensuring the quality and integrity of research data, and contributing to the overall scientific objectives of the project.
• Senior Research Fellow (SRF): SRFs will be involved in executing research experiments, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining laboratory records, and assisting in the preparation of research papers and reports. They will work under the guidance of principal investigators, contributing to various aspects of the project, including field trials, molecular biology experiments, and bioinformatics analysis. SRFs are also expected to assist in literature reviews and contribute to the dissemination of research outcomes.

Both roles require a strong commitment to scientific inquiry, meticulous experimental work, and effective communication skills.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates interested in these contractual positions must meet the specific eligibility criteria set by ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute and the funding agencies (DBT/ICAR).

• Educational Qualification: Applicants are generally required to hold a Master's degree or Ph.D. in relevant disciplines such as Genetics, Plant Breeding, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Agricultural Sciences, or related fields from a recognized university. Specific requirements for RA often include a Ph.D. or a Master's degree with significant research experience, while SRF typically requires a Master's degree with NET/GATE qualification or equivalent.
• Age Limit: The maximum age limit for these positions will be as per the prevailing norms of ICAR/DBT for contractual research positions. Age relaxation may be applicable for candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/PwBD categories as per Government of India rules.
• Experience: Relevant research experience in areas pertinent to the project, such as molecular techniques, plant tissue culture, genomics, or bioinformatics, will be highly preferred. Detailed experience requirements will be specified in the official notification.

Candidates are strongly advised to refer to the official advertisement on the ICAR-IARI website for precise and updated eligibility details before applying.

Selection Process

The selection for these Research Associate and Senior Research Fellow positions will be primarily based on a walk-in interview or an online interview process, as decided by the institute.

• Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview where their academic qualifications, research experience, technical skills, and suitability for the project will be assessed. Candidates must be prepared to discuss their past research work and demonstrate their understanding of the project's objectives.
• Document Verification: Applicants must bring all original certificates, mark sheets, experience certificates, and a set of self-attested photocopies for verification during the interview. A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a recent passport-sized photograph are also mandatory.

Salary & Benefits

The selected Research Associate and Senior Research Fellow will receive a consolidated monthly emolument as per the norms and guidelines of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) for their respective project-funded positions. While specific figures are not provided in the initial notification, these positions typically offer competitive stipends commensurate with qualifications and experience in the research sector. Being contractual, these positions do not generally include benefits such as provident fund, gratuity, or pension, but they offer invaluable research experience in a prestigious national institute.

How to Apply

Interested and eligible candidates are required to apply for these positions via email.

1. Prepare Application: Candidates must prepare a comprehensive application including a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting educational qualifications, research experience, publications, and contact details.
2. Attach Documents: Scan and attach self-attested copies of all relevant educational certificates (from 10th standard onwards), mark sheets, experience certificates, proof of age, and any other supporting documents (e.g., NET/GATE scorecards, publications).
3. Email Submission: Send the complete application package to the designated email address (to be specified in the official notification) before the last date. Ensure the subject line clearly mentions "Application for Research Associate" or "Application for Senior Research Fellow" along with the project name, if specified.
4. Official Notification: It is crucial to download and read the full official notification from the ICAR-IARI website (www.iari.res.in) for the exact email address, application format, and any additional instructions.

Important Dates

• Last Date for Application Submission: March 12, 2026
• Interview Date(s): To be announced on the official ICAR-IARI website or communicated to shortlisted candidates.

Candidates are advised to regularly check the official website for updates regarding interview schedules and any changes to the recruitment process.

Q: What are the eligibility criteria for the Research Associate and Senior Research Fellow positions at ICAR-IARI?

A: Candidates typically need a Master's degree or Ph.D. in relevant agricultural science disciplines. Specific qualifications, age limits, and experience requirements will be detailed in the official notification on the ICAR-IARI website.

Q: What is the salary for Research Associate and Senior Research Fellow roles?

A: The salary for these contractual positions will be a consolidated monthly emolument as per the norms and guidelines of ICAR and DBT for project-funded research roles. Specific figures will be mentioned in the official advertisement.

Q: What is the last date to apply for these ICAR-IARI research positions?

A: The last date for submitting applications for the Research Associate and Senior Research Fellow positions is March 12, 2026.

Q: What is the selection process for these posts?

A: The selection process primarily involves an interview (either walk-in or online) where candidates' academic background, research experience, and suitability for the project will be assessed. Document verification will also be conducted.

Q: How can I apply for the Research Associate and Senior Research Fellow vacancies?

A: Interested candidates must apply via email. Prepare a detailed CV and attach self-attested copies of all required documents. Send the complete application package to the email address specified in the official ICAR-IARI notification before the deadline.

Get Instant Alerts for ICAR-INDIAN AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Be the first to know about ICAR-INDIAN AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE updates. Join thousands of aspirants.