ISI Kolkata Project Linked Persons Recruitment 2026 - Apply Walkin

Important Dates

Keeping track of key dates is essential for any recruitment process. For the ISI Kolkata Project Linked Persons recruitment, the entire process revolves around a single, crucial date:

Candidates must ensure they are available and prepared to attend the walk-in interview on the specified date and time. There are no separate application submission deadlines, as the interview itself serves as the application point.

Vacancy Details

The Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata, is recruiting for Project Linked Research Scientist positions for a specific ICMR-funded project. Understanding the number and type of vacancies is the first step for any aspiring candidate.

Total Vacancies: 02

This recruitment is for Project Linked Research Scientist roles, which are temporary and contractual, tied to the duration of the specific research project. The positions are within the Human Genetics Unit of ISI Kolkata.

Each category has distinct eligibility criteria, so candidates should carefully review which post aligns with their qualifications and experience.

Eligibility

Eligibility is the cornerstone of any application. For the ISI Kolkata Project Linked Research Scientist positions, specific educational qualifications and experience are required for each category. It's vital to meet these criteria to be considered for the walk-in interview.

• For Project Linked Research Scientist I (Category A): You need a strong Post Graduate degree (First Class) in any Biological Science field. If your PG degree is Second Class, you must also have a Ph.D. in Biological Science. Having at least three years of research experience in molecular biology, handling clinical samples, and disease genomics, along with relevant publications, is a significant advantage, though not strictly mandatory.
• For Project Linked Research Scientist II (Category B): You need a First Class Post Graduate degree in Biological Science along with three years of research experience. Alternatively, if your PG degree is Second Class, you must have a Ph.D. in any Biological Science field. Experience in specific areas like Molecular Biology, Disease Genomics, DNA Sequencing, and handling clinical samples related to Hemoglobinopathies and Thalassaemia, with publications, will be highly valued.

Candidates should carefully assess their academic qualifications and research experience against these specific requirements for both essential and desirable criteria. Meeting the essential criteria is a must, while desirable qualifications can significantly boost your chances.

Age Limit

Age is an important factor in government recruitment. For the ISI Kolkata Project Linked Research Scientist positions, specific age limits apply to each category, with provisions for relaxation as per government norms.

Your age will be calculated as of 30 July 2026. This means that on this specific date, your age should not be more than the limit specified for the category you are applying for. For instance, if you are applying for Category A, you must be 35 years old or younger on 30 July 2026.

The official notification also mentions age relaxation for candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Women/Differently abled categories, as per Government rules. If you fall into any of these categories, it is crucial to check the specific age relaxation rules applicable to you. This relaxation can provide additional years beyond the general age limit, making you eligible even if you slightly exceed the general age cap. Always refer to the official notification or relevant government guidelines for precise details on age relaxation.

Selection Process

The selection process for the ISI Kolkata Project Linked Research Scientist positions is designed to identify candidates with the right academic background, research experience, and aptitude for the project. It primarily involves a direct interaction with the selection committee.

• Walk-in Interview: This is the primary and mandatory stage for all eligible candidates. You are required to attend the interview in person on the specified date, time, and venue. During the interview, the selection committee will assess your qualifications, research experience, understanding of the project, and overall suitability for the role. It's your chance to demonstrate your expertise and enthusiasm for the research.
• Screening Test (MCQ): This stage is conditional. The official notification states that if the number of candidates attending the walk-in interview exceeds 10, a screening test consisting of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) will be conducted. This test will serve as a preliminary shortlisting mechanism to manage the number of candidates proceeding to the interview stage. If this test is conducted, only those who qualify will be called for the interview. Therefore, candidates should be prepared for the possibility of an MCQ test on the interview day itself.

Candidates should prepare thoroughly for both the interview and the potential screening test by reviewing their academic knowledge, research work, and understanding of the project's domain.

Salary

Understanding the remuneration is an important aspect for any job aspirant. The Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata, offers a competitive monthly salary along with House Rent Allowance (HRA) for the Project Linked Research Scientist positions.

The salary mentioned is a consolidated amount paid per month, in addition to House Rent Allowance (HRA). This means that for Category A, you will receive ₹56,000/- every month, plus an additional amount for HRA, which is typically calculated as a percentage of the basic pay and varies based on the city of posting. Similarly, for Category B, you will receive ₹67,000/- per month along with HRA.

These are attractive emoluments for project-linked research positions, reflecting the institute's commitment to attracting skilled researchers. While the positions are temporary and contractual, the monthly pay scale is designed to be competitive and support researchers effectively during their tenure with the project.

Documents Required

When attending a walk-in interview, having all your documents in order is absolutely critical. Missing even a single required document can lead to disqualification. Here’s a list of documents you must prepare for the ISI Kolkata Project Linked Persons walk-in interview:

• Signed Resume in English: A well-structured and updated resume detailing your academic qualifications, research experience, publications, and contact information. Ensure it is signed.
• Covering Letter: A formal covering letter addressed to the Professor-in-Charge, Biological Sciences Division, expressing your interest in the position and highlighting how your skills and experience align with the project requirements.
• All Original Documents: This includes all your educational certificates (from matriculation onwards), mark sheets, degree certificates (PG, Ph.D. if applicable), and any experience certificates.
• Self-Attested Photocopies: A complete set of photocopies of all your original documents. Ensure each photocopy is clearly legible and self-attested (signed by you).
• Identity Proof: An original and a self-attested photocopy of a valid government-issued identity proof such as Aadhaar Card, Voter ID Card, or PAN Card.
• Passport-sized Photographs: Although not explicitly mentioned, it is always advisable to carry a few recent passport-sized photographs.
• Category Certificate (if applicable): If you are claiming age relaxation or any other benefit under SC/ST/OBC/PwBD categories, you must bring the original and a self-attested photocopy of your valid caste/category certificate issued by the competent authority.

Organize all these documents neatly in a file, separating originals from photocopies, to ensure a smooth verification process at the interview venue.

How to Apply

The application process for the ISI Kolkata Project Linked Research Scientist positions is straightforward, as it involves a walk-in interview. There is no online application form to fill or fees to pay beforehand. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Review the Official Notification: Start by thoroughly reading the entire official notification PDF to understand all eligibility criteria, desirable qualifications, age limits, and specific instructions for the walk-in interview.
2. Prepare Your Documents: Gather all the necessary documents as listed in the "Documents Required" section. This includes your signed resume, covering letter, original educational certificates, mark sheets, experience certificates, identity proof (Aadhaar/Voter/PAN Card), and self-attested photocopies of all these documents.
3. Plan Your Travel: Ensure you know the exact venue: Human Genetics Unit, A.N. Kolmogorov Bhavan, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata. Plan your travel to reach the venue well in advance of the interview time.
4. Attend the Walk-in Interview: On 30 July 2026, report to the specified venue at 11:30 a.m. or slightly earlier. Bring all your original documents along with their self-attested photocopies.
5. Be Prepared for a Screening Test: Be aware that if a large number of candidates (exceeding 10) attend, a preliminary MCQ-based screening test might be conducted before the interviews. Be ready to take this test if required.
6. Participate in the Interview: Present yourself confidently to the selection committee. Be ready to discuss your academic background, research experience, and how you can contribute to the ICMR-funded project.

Remember, punctuality and preparedness are key for a successful walk-in interview.

Important Instructions

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

• Always verify your eligibility criteria thoroughly before attending the walk-in interview to avoid disappointment.
• Ensure you bring all original documents along with a complete set of self-attested photocopies. Missing documents can lead to disqualification.
• Prepare a well-structured and signed resume in English, along with a formal covering letter addressed to the Professor-in-Charge, Biological Sciences Division.
• Be punctual and arrive at the interview venue (Human Genetics Unit, A.N. Kolmogorov Bhavan, ISI Kolkata) well before 11:30 a.m. on 30 July 2026.
• Be prepared for a potential MCQ-based screening test if the number of candidates exceeds 10.
• Understand that the appointments are purely temporary and contractual, linked to the project tenure (till 10 January 2027, extendable based on performance).
• No claim for regular appointment or continuation in any other project will be entertained.
• No Travel Allowance (TA) or Dearness Allowance (DA) will be paid for attending the interview.
• The Institute reserves the right not to fill the positions if suitable candidates are not found.
• Selected candidates must produce a medical fitness certificate at the time of joining.
• Keep a copy of your resume and covering letter for your own records.
• Read the official notification carefully one last time before the interview day to ensure no detail is missed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying for government jobs, especially through walk-in interviews, can be tricky. Avoiding common pitfalls can significantly improve your chances. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of for the ISI Kolkata recruitment:

• Not Verifying Eligibility: A common mistake is not thoroughly checking if you meet all essential educational qualifications and age limits. Attending the interview without meeting basic criteria is a waste of time and effort.
• Incomplete Documents: Failing to bring all required original documents and their self-attested photocopies is a major error. Always double-check the "Documents Required" list.
• Missing the Deadline/Time: For a walk-in interview, the interview date and time are your application deadline. Arriving late or on the wrong day will mean you miss the opportunity entirely.
• Poorly Prepared Resume/Cover Letter: A hastily prepared or unsigned resume, or a generic cover letter, can create a poor first impression. Tailor your documents to the specific project and post.
• Not Being Prepared for Screening Test: Assuming there won't be a screening test can catch you off guard. Always be ready for a preliminary MCQ test, especially if the candidate turnout is high.
• Lack of Project Understanding: Not researching the ICMR-funded project or the Human Genetics Unit's work can make you seem uninterested or unprepared during the interview.
• Expecting Regular Appointment: Misunderstanding the temporary and contractual nature of the post can lead to unrealistic expectations. The notification clearly states these are project-linked positions.
• Ignoring Important Instructions: Overlooking details like "no TA/DA" or the requirement for a medical fitness certificate can cause issues later. Read all instructions carefully.

By being meticulous and prepared, you can avoid these common mistakes and present yourself as a serious and capable candidate.