CSIR-NCL Project Associate-I Recruitment 2026

CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune is hiring a Project Associate-I on a temporary, project basis. This is a research support role for a sponsored, time-bound project at one of India's top chemical research laboratories. The application window is open from 01 July 2026 to 10 July 2026, and you apply online through the CSIR-NCL recruitment portal. The exact eligibility for this position is set in the official advertisement (No. 2026/CSIR-NCL/PMC/GAP347226/767) on the portal.

CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) Project Associate-I Recruitment 2026

The National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) is a constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), based in Pune. It works in areas like chemistry, chemical engineering, materials, catalysis and biochemical engineering, and regularly hires Project Associates for its externally funded research projects. This opening is for a Project Associate-I under advertisement number 2026/CSIR-NCL/PMC/GAP347226/767. The engagement is purely temporary and co-terminus with the project. This role suits fresh postgraduates and engineering graduates who want hands-on research experience at a leading national laboratory.

Who Can Apply?

• Qualification: As per CSIR norms, a Project Associate-I needs a Master's degree in a relevant natural or applied science subject, or a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Technology. The exact subject depends on the project.
• Desirable: A valid NET / GATE qualification, or a national-level test conducted by a central government department, is preferred and decides your fellowship amount.
• Please check the official advertisement on the CSIR-NCL portal for the exact discipline and any project-specific requirements.

Age Limit

• As per CSIR norms, the upper age limit for a Project Associate-I is usually 35 years.
• Age Relaxation: Relaxation is given to SC/ST/OBC/PwBD candidates and women as per government rules.

Salary

• As per CSIR norms, a Project Associate-I gets Rs. 31,000 per month plus HRA if you have qualified NET/GATE or an equivalent national test.
• Without NET/GATE, the fellowship is Rs. 25,000 per month plus HRA.
• HRA is paid as per the rules applicable at CSIR-NCL, Pune.

Selection Process

Selection for CSIR-NCL project positions is done through an interview:

1. Screening: Applications are screened against the qualification and experience requirements of the advertisement.
2. Interview: Shortlisted candidates are called for an interview, in person or online, to check subject knowledge and research aptitude.

How to Apply

1. Go to the CSIR-NCL project recruitment portal at jobs.ncl.res.in.
2. Complete the New Registration and create your login.
3. Select advertisement 2026/CSIR-NCL/PMC/GAP347226/767 (Project Associate-I).
4. Fill in the online application form and upload your documents.
5. Submit your application on or before 10 July 2026.

Important Dates

• Application Start Date: 01 July 2026
• Last Date to Apply Online: 10 July 2026

• Carry out laboratory experiments and research work for the assigned project.
• Record, analyse and document experimental data accurately.
• Prepare samples, operate instruments and maintain lab equipment.
• Assist the principal investigator with day-to-day project activities.
• Review scientific literature relevant to the project.
• Help prepare project reports, presentations and research papers.
• Follow lab safety rules and good research practices.