CMFRI SRF / YP-II Recruitment 2026

ICAR-CMFRI is hiring 1 candidate for the post of Senior Research Fellow (SRF) or Young Professional-II (YP-II) under an MoES-funded marine research project in Kochi, Kerala. If you have a Master's degree in Marine Science, Zoology, Fisheries Science or a related subject, you can apply through the online Google Form. The last date to submit your application is 5 August 2026. Salary ranges from Rs. 37,000 to Rs. 42,000 per month depending on which post you are selected for.

ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) SRF/YP-II Recruitment 2026 - 1 Post

ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi has invited applications for one position under the MoES-funded project "Automated Identification of Marine Species with Artificial Neural Networks to Enhance the Exploration and Sustainable Utilization of Deep-sea Marine Fishes." Depending on your qualifications, you will be selected as either a Senior Research Fellow or a Young Professional-II - only one candidate will be picked under this advertisement. This is a purely temporary, contract-based position for one year or till project completion, whichever is earlier. Your base place of work will be ICAR-CMFRI, Kochi, but you should be ready to travel and work on board research vessels for multi-day sampling as the project requires.

Who Can Apply?

For Senior Research Fellow (SRF):

• Master's degree with at least 60% marks in Marine Science, Zoology, Mariculture, Fisheries Science, Life Sciences or Marine Biology, along with a UGC/CSIR/ICAR NET qualification.
• OR a 3-year Bachelor's + 2-year Master's degree in the above subjects with NET qualification and 2 years of research experience (Fellowship/Associateship/Training).

For Young Professional-II (YP-II):

• Postgraduate degree in Marine Science, Zoology, Mariculture, Fisheries Science, Oceanography or Marine Biology, or an equivalent qualification in a relevant field.

• Desirable: Knowledge of marine fishery identification, database management, and swimming skills. Candidates with a CSIR/UGC fellowship will get preference.
• You should be ready to work on board research vessels for multi-day sampling trips.

Age Limit

• You should be between 21 and 45 years old (with relaxation as per rules) as on the date of the interview.

Salary

• Senior Research Fellow: Rs. 37,000 per month + HRA (1st and 2nd year), rising to Rs. 42,000 per month + HRA in the 3rd year.
• Young Professional-II: Rs. 42,000 per month (consolidated, as per revised ICAR guidelines).

Selection Process (No Written Exam)

Selection is based on:

1. Document Verification: Bring original certificates from matriculation onwards, plus a valid photo ID.
2. Interview: Only shortlisted candidates will be intimated by e-mail and allowed to appear.

Note: No TA/DA will be paid for attending the interview. If any of your near or distant relatives work at ICAR-CMFRI, you must declare this in advance. Concealing facts or canvassing in any form will lead to disqualification, and the Director, ICAR-CMFRI's decision is final and binding on all matters. This position is purely contractual and co-terminus with the project - selected candidates cannot claim any regular appointment at the institute.

How to Apply

1. Fill in the application form through the Google Form link: forms.gle/GxxLmGjiRX7uqWj98.
2. Attach scanned copies of your original certificates and a signed declaration.
3. Submit before 5 August 2026.
4. Wait for an email if you are shortlisted for the interview at ICAR-CMFRI, Kochi.

Important Dates

• Notification Date: 22 July 2026
• Last Date to Apply: 5 August 2026

• Assist in identifying and cataloguing deep-sea marine fish species collected during surveys
• Collect and process biological samples on board research vessels during multi-day trips
• Maintain accurate records of species data and specimen details
• Support the development of an AI-based marine species identification database
• Analyze fishery and oceanographic data using standard scientific methods
• Prepare technical reports and documentation for the funded project
• Coordinate with the project team on sampling schedules and vessel logistics