FRI Dehradun Recruitment 2026 - Apply Walkin for 11 Project Assistant, Field Assistant and More Posts

Important Dates

Candidates planning to attend the walk-in interview should note these crucial dates:

It's important to remember that no separate call letter or interview intimation will be sent. Candidates must report directly on the specified dates and times for their chosen post.

Vacancy Details

The Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, has announced a total of 12 vacancies for various temporary project and fellowship positions. These positions are spread across different projects and interview dates. While the total number of vacancies is 12, the official notification does not specify the individual vacancy count for each post. Candidates should be aware that the exact number of openings for each specific role is not detailed.

The recruitment is for purely temporary, project-based fellowship positions. Candidates should note that the total of 12 vacancies is distributed among the listed posts, but the exact breakdown per post is not provided in the official advertisement.

Eligibility

Understanding the eligibility criteria is the first and most crucial step before applying. FRI Dehradun has specific educational qualifications for each post. Ensure you meet these requirements precisely to avoid disqualification.

• Retired Technical Officer/Retired Range Officer (RTO/RRO): This post is for experienced individuals. You must be a Retired Technical Officer or Range Officer who has worked in a forest research organization or a forest department under state/central government or autonomous bodies. A minimum of 25 years of experience in Silviculture and forest management activities is essential. This means your prior work experience in a relevant government or autonomous body is key.
• Senior Project Fellow (SPF): Candidates need a First Class M.Sc. degree in Forestry or Botany. "First Class" typically refers to a specific percentage or grade point average as defined by your university.
• Junior Project Fellow (JPF): A First Class M.Sc. degree in Forestry, Agroforestry, or Botany is required. Again, ensure your M.Sc. degree meets the "First Class" criterion.
• Senior Research Fellow (SRF): This role requires a First Class M.Sc. degree in Botany, Forestry, or Environment Management. Additionally, you must have 2 years of research experience. This experience should be verifiable and relevant to the field.
• Project Assistant (PA) - Sal Regeneration project: A B.Sc. degree in Forestry or Botany is the essential qualification for this specific project.
• Field Assistant (FA): The minimum educational requirement for this post is Intermediate (10+2). This means candidates who have completed their 12th standard from a recognized board are eligible.
• Project Assistant (PA) - Singori-Bhatwari project: For this project, a B.Sc. degree in Biology/Botany (Hons.)/Forestry/Agriculture is required. Ensure your B.Sc. specialization matches one of these fields.
• Project Assistant (PA) - Medicinal Plants project: A B.Sc. degree in Biology/Forestry/Agriculture is needed for this project.

It is crucial to carefully check which project and post you are applying for, as the qualifications vary significantly. Always refer to the official notification for the exact wording and any specific conditions.

Age Limit

Age limits are strictly enforced, and candidates must ensure they fall within the specified range as on the cutoff date. Age relaxation benefits are available for certain categories as per government rules.

For posts like Senior Research Fellow, Senior Project Fellow, and Junior Project Fellow, your age will be calculated as of 01.06.2026. For the Retired Technical Officer/Range Officer post, the age limit applies as of the advertisement date, which is 17.07.2026. It is important to calculate your age accurately based on these cutoff dates.

The notification explicitly states that age relaxation of up to 5 years will be provided for candidates belonging to SC/ST, Women, Physically Handicapped, and OBC categories. If you belong to any of these categories, make sure you have the necessary certificates to claim this relaxation. The notification does not specify a separate age limit for Project Assistant and Field Assistant posts, so candidates for these roles should refer to any general age guidelines that might apply or seek clarification if needed, though typically, if not specified, it implies a general working age range.

Application Fee

The official notification for FRI Dehradun Recruitment 2026 does not mention any application fee for attending the walk-in interviews. This means candidates are generally not required to pay any fee to participate in the selection process.

Always double-check the official notification for any last-minute updates or specific instructions regarding fees, though currently, none are indicated. This can be a relief for many aspirants, making the application process more accessible.

Selection Process

The selection process for the FRI Dehradun recruitment 2026 is straightforward and entirely based on a walk-in interview. There is no written examination mentioned in the official notification, which simplifies the process for candidates.

• Registration and Document Verification: This is the initial and critical step. You must arrive at the specified venue (Board Room, FRI Main Building, Dehradun) within the registration window (9:00 AM to 10:15 AM). During this time, you will submit your updated bio-data along with self-attested copies of all your educational and experience certificates. For RTO/RRO applicants, additional documents like the Last Pay Certificate (LPC) and recent Pension Slip are also required. This stage ensures that only eligible candidates with valid documents proceed further.
• Walk-in Interview: After successful document verification, candidates will be called for a direct interview. This interview is your opportunity to demonstrate your skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm for the role. The panel will likely ask questions related to your academic background, previous work experience (if any), understanding of forestry/botany/environmental management, and your suitability for the specific project. Since there's no written exam, your performance in this interview will be the sole determinant of your selection.

Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly for the interview, focusing on their subject knowledge and how their skills align with the project requirements. Being punctual for registration is extremely important, as latecomers may not be entertained.

Salary

The fellowship amounts for the various temporary positions at FRI Dehradun are competitive and vary based on the post and project. It's important to understand that these are consolidated or fixed amounts, with HRA applicable for some posts.

• RTO/RRO: This post offers a consolidated amount of Rs. 35,000/-. However, if you are a retired government employee, your fellowship will be either Rs. 35,000/- or your last drawn Basic Pay (as per LPC) minus your current Basic Pension, whichever of these two calculations results in a lower amount. This ensures that the fellowship complements your pension without exceeding a certain limit.
• Senior Research Fellow (SRF): This is the highest-paying fellowship, offering Rs. 42,000/- per month, along with House Rent Allowance (HRA). HRA is an additional component to help cover accommodation costs, making the total remuneration higher.
• Senior Project Fellow (SPF): You will receive a fixed amount of Rs. 28,000/- per month for the first two years of the project.
• Junior Project Fellow (JPF): This position offers a consolidated salary of Rs. 24,000/- per month. "Consolidated" means it's a fixed amount without additional allowances.
• Project Assistant (PA) - Sal project: The salary for this PA role increases over time. You will receive Rs. 19,000/- per month for the first two years, which then increases to Rs. 20,000/- per month for the subsequent three years (year 3-5).
• Field Assistant (FA): This role comes with a consolidated salary of Rs. 20,000/- per month.
• Project Assistant (PA) - Singori-Bhatwari project: This specific PA role offers a fixed salary of Rs. 23,000/- per month.
• Project Assistant (PA) - Medicinal Plants project: This PA role provides a fixed salary of Rs. 22,000/- per month.

Candidates should consider these amounts carefully, understanding that most are fixed or consolidated, meaning they typically do not include other government allowances unless explicitly stated (like HRA for SRF). These fellowships provide a good opportunity to gain research and field experience in a prestigious institution.

Documents Required

Attending a walk-in interview requires meticulous preparation of documents. Failing to carry any essential document can lead to disqualification. Ensure you have all the following ready, preferably in a neat folder:

• Copy of Updated Bio-data: A comprehensive and up-to-date resume or CV detailing your educational qualifications, work experience, skills, and contact information.
• Recent Passport Size Photograph: Carry a few extra copies, as they might be required for various forms or records.
• Self-attested Copies of All Educational Certificates: This includes mark sheets and degree certificates from 10th standard onwards (10th, 12th, B.Sc., M.Sc., etc.). Make sure each copy is clearly self-attested.
• Self-attested Copies of All Relevant/Experience Documents: If you have previous work experience, carry experience letters, appointment letters, or any other documents that validate your professional background. For SRF applicants, documents proving 2 years of research experience are crucial.
• For RTO/RRO Post Only: In addition to the above, candidates applying for the Retired Technical Officer/Retired Range Officer post must bring their Last Pay Certificate (LPC) and a recent Pension Slip. These documents are essential to verify your retirement status and previous pay details.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC): If you are currently employed in any organization, or were recently employed, it is advisable to carry a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current/last employer. While the notification mentions "current/last institute," it's a good practice to have it ready, especially if you are selected.
• Identity Proof: A valid government-issued photo ID such as Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport.
• Category Certificate (if applicable): If you are claiming age relaxation or any other benefits under SC/ST/OBC/PwBD categories, you must carry valid and up-to-date caste/category certificates issued by the competent authority.

Organize all your documents properly, keeping originals handy for verification, and a set of self-attested photocopies for submission. This will ensure a smooth registration process.

How to Apply

The application process for FRI Dehradun Recruitment 2026 is through a direct walk-in interview. There is no online application form to fill. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful application:

1. Review Eligibility: First, thoroughly read the official notification and this article to understand the eligibility criteria for each post. Identify which post(s) you are qualified for based on your educational background and experience.
2. Select Interview Date: Note the specific interview date for your chosen post. Posts like RTO/RRO, SPF, JPF, and SRF have interviews on 28 July 2026, while PA and FA posts have interviews on 29 July 2026.
3. Prepare Documents: Gather all the necessary documents as listed in the "Documents Required" section. This includes your updated bio-data, recent passport-size photographs, self-attested copies of all educational certificates (10th, 12th, B.Sc., M.Sc. mark sheets and degrees), and experience certificates. For RTO/RRO applicants, remember to include your Last Pay Certificate (LPC) and recent Pension Slip. If currently employed, arrange for a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
4. Reach the Venue on Time: On your respective interview date, report to the Board Room, FRI Main Building, P.O. New Forest, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun - 248006. It is crucial to arrive well within the registration window, which is from 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM. Latecomers may not be allowed to register.
5. Complete Registration: At the venue, you will need to register. This typically involves filling out a short form and submitting your bio-data along with the self-attested copies of your documents to the office of the Group Coordinator (Research).
6. Document Verification: Your submitted documents will be verified by the FRI officials. Ensure you have the original documents ready for inspection if requested.
7. Attend the Interview: After successful document verification, you will proceed to the walk-in interview. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role with the interview panel.

Remember, no separate call letters will be issued. Your presence at the venue with all required documents during the specified registration time is your application.

Important Instructions

To ensure a smooth application and interview process, candidates should pay close attention to these important instructions:

• Read the Official Notification: Always refer to and thoroughly read the complete official notification PDF. This article provides a summary, but the official document is the ultimate source of truth.
• Verify Eligibility: Before attending, meticulously check if you meet all the essential educational qualifications, age limits, and experience requirements for your chosen post.
• Prepare All Documents: Ensure you have all original documents for verification and a complete set of self-attested photocopies ready for submission. Missing documents can lead to immediate disqualification.
• Punctuality is Key: Arrive at the interview venue well before the 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM registration window. Latecomers will not be entertained.
• Updated Bio-data: Carry an updated and well-structured bio-data (resume/CV) that highlights your relevant skills and experience.
• No Separate Call Letter: Understand that FRI will not issue individual call letters. Your responsibility is to report directly on the specified date and time.
• Nature of Post: Be aware that all positions are purely temporary and project-based fellowships. There is no guarantee of permanent employment.
• No TA/DA: The notification typically implies that no Travel Allowance (TA) or Dearness Allowance (DA) will be paid for attending the interview. Candidates should plan their travel and accommodation accordingly.
• Follow COVID-19 Protocols: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided text, it is always wise to be prepared to follow any prevailing health and safety guidelines or COVID-119 protocols at the venue.
• Professional Demeanor: Maintain a professional attitude throughout the registration and interview process.