CSIR CFTRI Recruitment 2026: Project Assistant & Associate

Introduction

The CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) in Mysuru, Karnataka, has announced a recruitment drive for temporary positions. This recruitment is for Project Assistant-I and Project Associate-I roles, aimed at engaging qualified candidates for a specific research project. The interviews will be conducted through a walk-in process, offering a direct opportunity for eligible individuals to join the institute. The engagement is initially for a period up to March 2027, with potential extensions based on project needs or duration. This is a chance to contribute to scientific research in food technology. All essential details regarding eligibility, age limits, salary, and the application procedure are outlined in the official notification. Candidates are strongly advised to read the official PDF carefully for complete and final information before attending the interview.

CSIR CFTRI Recruitment Overview

Important Dates

Vacancy Details

Educational Qualifications and Eligibility

Candidates must meet the following essential qualifications for the respective posts:

• Project Assistant - I (PA-I): Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Microbiology or an equivalent qualification from a recognised university.
• Project Associate - I (PAT-I): Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Microbiology or an equivalent qualification from a recognised university.

Desirable Qualification/Experience: Experience in fermented probiotics, postbiotics, and gut microbiota studies will be preferred for both positions.

Important Eligibility Condition: The total period of engagement as Project Staff in different projects within any CSIR Lab/Institute, cumulatively taken together, must not exceed 6 years. Applicants who have already completed this tenure are not eligible.

Age Limit and Relaxation

The age of candidates will be considered as of the date of the Walk-in Interview.

• Maximum Age Limit for Project Associate - I: 35 years.
• Age Relaxation:
  • SC/ST/PwBD/Women candidates: 05 years
  • OBC candidates: 03 years
  This relaxation is applicable as per Government of India instructions. Candidates claiming relaxation must bring their original certificate in the prescribed format.

The age limit for Project Assistant - I is not specified in the supplied notification.

Salary and Stipend

The stipend and House Rent Allowance (HRA) for the selected candidates will be as follows:

• Project Assistant - I (PA-I): Rs. 20,000/- plus HRA per month.
• Project Associate - I (PAT-I):
  • Rs. 31,000/- plus HRA per month for candidates who have qualified National Eligibility Tests (CSIR-UGC NET, GATE, etc.).
  • Rs. 25,000/- plus HRA per month for other candidates.

Selection Process

The selection for these temporary positions will be based on a Walk-in-Interview. Candidates will be interviewed by a committee. If a large number of applications are received, the committee may use criteria such as marks obtained in essential qualifications, higher educational qualifications, or desirable experience to shortlist candidates for the interview.

Application Procedure

Interested and eligible candidates should follow these steps:

1. Download Application Form: Visit the CSIR-CFTRI website and download the application form provided in Annexure-I.
2. Fill the Form: Complete the application form accurately in block letters.
3. Attend Walk-in-Interview: Report at the specified venue and time on 16 October 2026 with the duly filled application form.
4. Carry Documents: Bring original and self-attested copies of all your certificates and testimonials, a valid identity proof (Voter ID card/PAN Card/Driving License/Passport/Adhar Card), and one passport-size photograph. Original certificates are mandatory to appear for the interview.
5. NOC Requirement: If your higher degree is ongoing under AcSIR or a university with an MoU with CSIR, you must bring a No Objection Certificate (NOC) in the format provided in Annexure-II.

Required Documents for Interview

• Original and self-attested copies of all educational certificates and testimonials.
• Valid identity proof (e.g., Voter ID card, PAN Card, Driving License, Passport, Adhar Card).
• One passport-size photograph.
• Original certificate for SC/ST/PwBD/OBC category if claiming age relaxation.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) if pursuing an ongoing higher degree (as per Annexure-II).

Important Instructions and Common Mistakes

• Date of Eligibility: Educational qualification, experience, and age will be considered as of the date of the Walk-in Interview (16 October 2026).
• No TA/DA: Candidates will not be reimbursed for any travel or daily expenses incurred for attending the interview.
• Shortlisting Criteria: Be aware that if many candidates apply, the selection committee may shortlist applicants based on academic merit or experience before the interview.
• Discontinuation Policy: If selected, candidates must obtain prior approval from the Director before discontinuing their engagement. One month's prior notice or deposit of one month's stipend is required.
• Final Decision: The decision of the Director, CSIR-CFTRI, is final in all matters related to this recruitment.
• Common Mistake: Forgetting to bring original certificates or the filled application form can lead to disqualification from the interview. Ensure all documents are in order.
• Common Mistake: Not checking the CSIR-CFTRI website for updates, as all future information will be posted there.

Official Notification and Application Links

• Official Notification PDF: Download Notification
• Official Website: CSIR-CFTRI Official Website

Relevant FAQs

• Q1: Is this a permanent government job?
  A1: No, the engagement is purely on a temporary contractual basis for a specific project.
• Q2: What is the last date to apply?
  A2: The last date to appear for the Walk-in-Interview is 16 October 2026.
• Q3: Do I need to pay an application fee?
  A3: The application fee details are not specified in the supplied notification.
• Q4: Can candidates with ongoing higher degrees apply?
  A4: Yes, but they must bring a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current institution.