ISI Project Associate I Recruitment 2026

Introduction

The Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) Kolkata, an autonomous body funded by the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation, Government of India, has announced a recruitment drive for the position of Project Associate-I. This is a temporary, full-time role within the Agricultural & Ecological Research Unit, Kolkata, for a project titled "Centre of Excellence for Crop Protection: Sustainable Agrobiologicals for Climate-Resilient Agriculture," funded by the DBT, Government of India. A single vacancy is available for motivated candidates who meet the specified educational and age criteria. The application process is entirely online, and interested individuals must submit their applications by the stipulated deadline. The official notification provides comprehensive details regarding qualifications, age limits, salary, and the application procedure. It is crucial for all applicants to carefully read the official notification before proceeding with their application to ensure all requirements are met. The official website of ISI Kolkata is the primary source for all recruitment-related information and the application portal.

Recruitment Overview

Important Dates

Vacancy Details

A total of one (01) vacancy is available for the post of Project Associate-I.

Category-wise vacancy details are not specified in the supplied notification.

Educational Qualifications and Eligibility

Candidates must possess a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Agriculture, Botany, Zoology, Biotechnology, or any other relevant discipline of Life Sciences from a recognised university or institute.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Previous research experience in plant nanobiotechnology, plant stress physiology, and/or plant-microbe or plant-soil interactions.
• Experience in conducting pot experiments, greenhouse experiments, and field trials will be preferred.

Mere fulfilment of essential qualifications does not guarantee selection.

Age Limit and Relaxation

The maximum age limit for candidates is 35 years as on 16 November 2026.

Age relaxations will be provided to SC/ST/OBC/Women/differently abled candidates as per the rules of the Government of India.

The age limit may also be relaxed for exceptionally bright candidates with relevant experience.

Application Fee

The application fee details are not specified in the supplied notification.

Salary and Pay Scale

The pay for the Project Associate-I position will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications:

• Rs 31,000/- per month plus House Rent Allowances (HRA) as per Institute rules, for candidates holding valid CSIR/UGC-JRF/NET/GATE qualifications from national-level tests conducted by Central Government departments and their agencies.
• Rs 25,000/- per month plus House Rent Allowances (HRA) as per Institute rules, for candidates who do not fall under the above category.

The appointment is purely on a temporary basis and co-terminus with the project, initially till 31 March 2027, with potential for extension based on performance and fund availability.

Selection Process

The selection process may involve a written test, if required, to shortlist candidates for an interview, depending on the number of applicants. The final selection will be based on the performance in the interview.

The number of candidates to be called for the written test or interview will be decided by the selection committee.

Selected candidates will be communicated interview details via email.

Application Procedure

Eligible and interested candidates are requested to apply online through the official website of the Indian Statistical Institute Kolkata.

1. Visit the official ISI Kolkata jobs portal.
2. Locate the advertisement for Project Associate-I.
3. Click on the application link provided.
4. Fill in all the required details in the online application form accurately.
5. Upload the necessary documents as specified.
6. Submit the application before the closing date of 20 November 2026.

A resume with incomplete information or without supporting documents will be summarily rejected.

Required Documents

Candidates are required to upload the following documents during the application process:

• Date of Birth proof
• Academic Qualification certificates and marksheets (Bachelor's and Master's degrees)
• Caste certificate (if applicable)
• Any one Identity Proof issued by the Government of India/Government of West Bengal
• Disability certificate (if applicable)
• Experience Certificate(s)
• Recent Passport Size Photograph

At the time of joining, selected candidates must produce all original documents/testimonials for verification and a medical certificate of fitness.

Important Instructions and Common Mistakes

• Ensure all details provided in the online application form are correct and match your original documents.
• Upload clear and legible scanned copies of all required documents.
• Read the official notification thoroughly to understand all eligibility criteria and requirements.
• The position is purely contractual, and candidates will have no right to claim permanent employment.
• The institute does not provide residential facilities for contractual staff.
• No TA/DA will be paid for attending the interview or joining the post.
• Failing to produce original documents at the time of joining may lead to the offer being withdrawn.

Official Notification and Application Links

FAQs

Q1: What is the last date to apply for the Project Associate-I position at ISI Kolkata?
A1: The last date to submit your online application is 20 November 2026.

Q2: What are the minimum educational qualifications required?
A2: You need an M.Sc. degree in Agriculture, Botany, Zoology, Biotechnology, or any other relevant discipline of Life Sciences.

Q3: Is there any application fee?
A3: The application fee details are not specified in the supplied notification.

Q4: What is the age limit for this recruitment?
A4: Candidates should not exceed 35 years of age as on 16 November 2026, with relaxations applicable as per Government of India rules.

Q5: What is the salary structure for the Project Associate-I post?
A5: The salary is Rs 31,000/- per month plus HRA for qualified candidates (JRF/NET/GATE) and Rs 25,000/- per month plus HRA for others.