IARI Project Associate Recruitment 2026: Walk-in

Introduction

The Division of Plant Pathology at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, has announced a recruitment drive for one Project Associate-II position. This role is purely temporary and contractual, intended to support a DBT-funded project focused on enhancing sesame germplasm. The position is available until February 2027. Eligible candidates are invited to attend a walk-in-interview scheduled for November 2, 2026. This is a direct opportunity to join a leading agricultural research institute. All essential details regarding qualifications, age limits, salary, and the application process are outlined in the official notification, which candidates must review thoroughly before applying. The interview will be conducted at the Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi.

Recruitment Overview

Important Dates

Vacancy Details

Educational Qualifications and Eligibility

To be eligible for the Project Associate-II position, candidates must meet the following essential qualifications:

• A Master's degree in Plant Pathology, Biotechnology, or Molecular Biology.
• Alternatively, a postgraduate degree in basic sciences such as Botany and allied sciences from a recognized university or institute.
• In addition to the degree, candidates must possess two years of experience in research and development within industrial, academic institutions, or science and technology organizations, involving scientific activities and services.

Desirable Qualification:

• Research experience in phytoplasma diseases and molecular techniques is considered desirable.

Only candidates possessing the essential qualifications will be considered for the interview.

Age Limit and Relaxation

The upper age limit for the Project Associate-II post is 35 years as of the interview date.

Age relaxations are applicable as follows:

• Women candidates: 5 years
• SC/ST candidates: 5 years
• OBC candidates: 3 years
• PwD candidates: 10 years

Age relaxations for other eligible categories will be as per Government of India/ICAR rules.

Salary and Emoluments

The emoluments for the Project Associate-II position are fixed per month and depend on the candidate's qualifications:

• Rs. 35,000 per month + 30% HRA: For scholars who have qualified through CSIR-UGC-NET, GATE, or other national-level examinations conducted by central government departments and their agencies.
• Rs. 28,000 per month + 30% HRA: For candidates who do not fall under the above category.

Selection Process

The selection for the Project Associate-II position will be based on a walk-in-interview. Candidates are expected to be present at the venue on the specified date and time. Original documents will be verified during the interview.

Application Procedure

Interested and eligible candidates should appear for a walk-in-interview. The procedure is as follows:

1. Prepare your complete bio-data in the prescribed application format, which is attached in the official notification (Annexure-I & II).
2. Bring two copies of the duly filled application form.
3. Carry two recent passport-size photographs.
4. Assemble one set of self-attested photocopies of your certificates, mark sheets, and experience proof.
5. Ensure you bring all original documents for verification at the time of the interview.
6. Report to the interview venue on the specified date and time.

Important Note: Do not send hard copies of the application format or certificates by post. Application formats deviating from the prescribed format will not be considered.

Required Documents for Interview

Candidates must bring the following documents to the walk-in-interview:

• Two copies of the duly filled application form in the prescribed proforma (Annexure-I & II).
• Two recent passport-size photographs.
• One set of self-attested photocopies of certificates, mark sheets, and experience proof.
• Original documents for verification.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the employer, if currently employed.
• A declaration form if you have near or distant relatives working at ICAR/IARI (as per Annexure-III, if applicable).

Important Instructions and Common Mistakes

• Reporting Time: Candidates are expected to be present at the interview venue by 09:30 AM. Latecomers may not be ordinarily entertained.
• Application Format: Ensure your application strictly follows the prescribed format. Any deviation may lead to rejection.
• Original Documents: Always carry original documents for verification. Failure to do so can lead to disqualification.
• Declaration of Relatives: If you have relatives working at ICAR/IARI, you must declare it. Failure to do so or declaring it on the interview date might prevent you from being interviewed. Candidates with no relatives working there must also furnish a declaration.
• Contractual Nature: The selected candidate will be engaged on a purely contractual, non-regular, and time-bound basis, co-terminus with the project. They cannot claim any regular appointment.
• No TA/DA: No travel or daily allowance will be paid for attending the interview.
• Changes: For any updates or changes, refer to the corrigendum on the IARI website.

Official Notification and Application Links

For detailed information and to download the application format, please refer to the official sources:

• Official Notification PDF: Download Notification
• Official Website: ICAR-IARI Website

Relevant FAQs

Q1: What is the last date to apply for the Project Associate-II position?
A1: This is a walk-in-interview recruitment, so there is no separate application deadline. Candidates must appear for the interview on November 2, 2026.

Q2: Is there an application fee for this recruitment?
A2: The supplied notification does not specify any application fee.

Q3: Can candidates from outside Delhi apply?
A3: Yes, candidates from all eligible backgrounds can apply, provided they meet the educational and experience criteria. However, no TA/DA will be provided for attending the interview.

Q4: What is the duration of the contract?
A4: The position is contractual and is expected to last up to February 2027.