ICAR IARI Project Associate I Recruitment 2026

Introduction

The Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-IARI) in New Delhi has announced a recruitment drive for the position of Project Associate I. This is a contractual role for one post, to be filled through a walk-in interview. The recruitment aims to find a suitable candidate for a DBT-funded project focused on pea pod protein extraction and functionalization for clean-label food additives. Eligible candidates are invited to attend the interview with all necessary documents. The official notification provides detailed information on qualifications, age limits, and the application process. It is important for all applicants to carefully read the official PDF notification for complete and final details before attending the interview.

Recruitment Overview

Important Dates

Vacancy Details

A total of 01 vacancy is available for the post of Project Associate I.

Educational Qualifications and Eligibility

To be eligible for the Project Associate I position, candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• Essential Qualification: A Master's degree in Food Science, Food Science and Technology, Biochemistry Technology, or Food.
• Desirable Qualification: Hands-on experience in laboratory techniques, food product development, and basic computer skills.

Only candidates who meet the essential qualifications will be interviewed.

Age Limit and Relaxation

The maximum age limit for candidates applying for the Project Associate I post is 35 years as on the date of the interview.

Age relaxations are applicable as follows:

• SC/ST & Women Candidates: 5 years
• OBC Candidates: 3 years

Application Fee

The official notification does not specify any application fee for this recruitment drive.

Salary and Emoluments

The emoluments for the Project Associate I position are fixed per month and depend on the candidate's selection process:

• Rs. 31,000/- + HRA per month: For scholars selected through National Eligibility Tests (CSIR-UGC NET including lectureship or GATE) or a selection process through National level examinations conducted by Central Government Departments and their Agencies and Institutions.
• Rs. 25,000/- + HRA per month: For other candidates who do not fall under the above category.

Selection Process

The selection for the Project Associate I post will be based on a walk-in interview. Candidates will be interviewed by a selection committee. Original documents will be verified at the time of the interview.

Application Procedure

Interested and eligible candidates should appear for the walk-in interview on the specified date and time. The procedure is as follows:

1. Prepare your complete bio-data.
2. Fill out the application form in the prescribed proforma (provided in Annexure-I & II of the notification).
3. Bring two copies of the duly filled application form.
4. Carry two recent passport-size photographs.
5. Include one set of self-attested photocopies of your certificates, mark sheets, and experience proof.
6. Ensure you bring all original documents for verification at the time of the interview.
7. Report at the venue by the specified time. Candidates reporting after 10:30 AM 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 (as per Annexure-I & II).
• Two passport-size photographs.
• One set of self-attested photocopies of educational qualification certificates, mark sheets, and experience proof.
• Original documents for verification (e.g., educational certificates, mark sheets, experience certificates, ID proof).

Important Instructions and Common Mistakes

• Reporting Time is Crucial: Candidates must report by 9:30 AM and will not be considered if they arrive after 10:30 AM. This is a strict deadline.
• Complete Application Form: Ensure the application form is filled completely and accurately. Incomplete forms may lead to rejection.
• Original Documents: Do not forget to bring all original documents for verification. Without them, you may not be allowed to attend the interview.
• Contractual Basis: The selected candidate will be appointed on a purely contractual, non-regular, time-bound basis, co-terminus with the project. They cannot claim regular appointment at the institute.
• Relative Declaration: If you have a near or distant relative working at ICAR/IARI, you must declare it. Failure to do so or declaring it on the interview date might lead to disqualification. The notification specifies a process for this declaration.
• NOC from Employer: If currently employed, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer is required.

Official Notification and Application Links

For detailed information and to download the application form, please refer to the official notification:

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the last date to apply for the Project Associate I position?
A1: There is no last date for application submission as it is a walk-in interview. Candidates must appear for the interview on 16th November 2026.

Q2: Is there any application fee?
A2: The official notification does not mention any application fee for this recruitment.

Q3: What is the age limit for this post?
A3: The maximum age limit is 35 years, with relaxations for SC/ST, women, and OBC candidates.

Q4: Can candidates with a Bachelor's degree apply?
A4: No, the essential qualification is a Master's degree in the specified fields.

Q5: Will TA/DA be paid for attending the interview?
A5: No, TA/DA will not be paid for attending the interview.