CSIR-CFTRI Project Staff Recruitment 2026

About This Job

CSIR-CFTRI has released notification for 9 Project Staff positions across multiple research projects at its Mysuru campus. Candidates with Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Technology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or related Life Sciences can apply online. The last date to submit your application is 01 April 2026. Monthly stipend ranges from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 42,000 plus HRA.

CSIR-CFTRI Project Staff Recruitment 2026 - 9 Posts

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR-CFTRI), Mysuru, has announced openings for 9 project staff positions under multiple ongoing research projects. These include projects on trans fat elimination, biotechnology applications, and food science research. All positions are purely on a temporary contractual basis, initially for up to six months and extendable based on project requirements. Candidates with backgrounds in food science, chemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, and related disciplines should consider this opportunity.

Vacancy Details

Who Can Apply?

Project Associate-II (4 positions total across GAP-666 and CNP-577)

• Qualification: You need a Master's degree in Agricultural Sciences, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, Food Technology, or Life Sciences.
• Experience: You must have at least 2 years of R&D experience in industrial or academic institutions, or in science and technology organizations.
• Preferred: Hands-on expertise in analysis of oils and fats, experience with HPLC and GC analytical techniques. NET/GATE qualified candidates will be preferred.

Project Assistant-II (2 positions under GAP-666)

• Qualification: You need a Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology or Food Technology.
• Preferred: BBA degree holders or those with hands-on experience in food analysis or conducting surveys will be preferred.

Project Associate-I (2 positions across TSP-056 and GAP-664)

• For TSP-056: You need an M.Sc. in Food Science and Technology or Chemistry.
• For GAP-664: You need an M.Sc. in Biotechnology, Microbiology, or Biochemistry. Candidates with NET/GATE qualification will get a higher stipend of Rs. 31,000 instead of Rs. 25,000.

Senior Project Associate-I (1 position under GAP-664)

• Option 1: M.Sc. in Biotechnology, Food Science and Nutrition, Food Science and Technology, or Nutrition Biology with 4 years of R&D experience.
• Option 2: PhD in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Food Science and Technology, or equivalent.

Important: Only candidates who have already completed their degree and received results are eligible. Result-awaited or final semester candidates cannot apply.

Note: Candidates who have already completed 6 years as Project Staff in any CSIR lab or institute are NOT eligible to apply.

Age Limit

• Maximum age for Project Associate-I, Project Associate-II, and Project Assistant-II: 35 years as on 01 April 2026.
• Maximum age for Senior Project Associate-I: 40 years as on 01 April 2026.
• Age Relaxation: SC/ST/PwBD/Women candidates get 5 years relaxation. OBC candidates get 3 years relaxation.

Stipend and Compensation

• Project Assistant-II: Rs. 20,000 per month + 18% HRA
• Project Associate-I: Rs. 25,000 per month + HRA (Rs. 31,000 for NET/GATE qualified)
• Project Associate-II: Rs. 28,000 per month + 18% HRA
• Senior Project Associate-I: Rs. 42,000 per month + 20% HRA

The engagement is initially for up to six months and may be extended up to one year or until the project ends, whichever comes first. The maximum total tenure across all CSIR projects is 6 years.

Selection Process

1. Online Application Screening: A committee will shortlist candidates based on marks in essential qualification, higher educational qualifications, and desirable experience.
2. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview. The interview date will be communicated via email. No TA/DA will be provided for attending the interview.
3. Final Selection: Based on interview performance, selected candidates and a waitlist panel will be declared on the CFTRI website.

Note: If a large number of applications are received, the shortlisting committee may use additional criteria such as percentage of marks, higher qualifications, or desirable experience to narrow down the candidates.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official CSIR-CFTRI Project Manpower Portal at patcell.cftri.res.in.
2. Register yourself and fill in the online application form with your personal, educational, and experience details.
3. Upload scanned copies of certificates for date of birth, caste, qualification, and experience.
4. Submit your application on or before 01 April 2026 up to 5:00 PM.
5. No other mode of application will be accepted -- only online applications through the PATCELL portal are valid.

If you are already working in any CSIR lab or institute, you must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current Principal Investigator before applying.

Important Dates

• Notification Date: 18 March 2026
• Application Start Date: 20 March 2026
• Last Date to Apply: 01 April 2026 (up to 5:00 PM)
• Interview Date: To be announced (check CFTRI website)

• Carry out food analysis experiments including testing of oils, fats, and other food samples using standard laboratory techniques.
• Operate and maintain analytical instruments such as HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) and GC (Gas Chromatography) for research work.
• Assist in conducting field surveys and collecting food samples for trans fat analysis as part of the research project.
• Prepare detailed research reports, maintain experiment logbooks, and document findings accurately for project records.
• Work closely with the Principal Investigator and senior researchers to meet project milestones and deliverables on time.
• Follow all laboratory safety protocols and maintain cleanliness and proper organization of the research workspace.
• Assist in literature review, data analysis, and preparation of manuscripts or presentations related to the project outcomes.