CSIR-NCL OBOGS Zeolite Project Recruitment 2026

CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune is hiring for a temporary project position tied to its work on an indigenous hybrid cation-exchange zeolite for the On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS). If you are a science or engineering postgraduate who wants hands-on research experience, you can apply online through the CSIR-NCL project jobs portal. The last date to apply is 11 July 2026. The exact number of posts, stipend and eligibility are given in the official advertisement (No. 2026/CSIR-NCL/CEPD/FTT010602/769).

CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) OBOGS Zeolite Project Recruitment 2026

CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) is one of India's top research labs under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). It has opened a contract, project-based position in its Chemical Engineering and Process Development (CEPD) work on a hybrid cation-exchange zeolite for on-board oxygen generation in aircraft. This is a fixed-term engagement linked to a sponsored project, so it suits candidates who want practical experience in materials chemistry, gas adsorption and process development before building a full research career.

OBOGS technology lets aircraft make breathing oxygen from cabin air instead of carrying heavy oxygen cylinders. CSIR-NCL's zeolite research in this field has helped push oxygen output in such systems to well above 80%, directly supporting India's drive for self-reliant defence technology. Working on this project gives you exposure to real, application-driven science that has a clear national impact.

Because this is a short-window opening that closes on 11 July 2026, it is best to keep your documents ready and apply early. A stint on a sponsored project like this is a strong addition to your CV and a common route into a PhD or a full-time research role at a national laboratory.

Who Can Apply?

This is a research project position, so eligibility follows CSIR project-staff norms. Read the official advertisement for the exact subject and class of degree required before you apply.

• Qualification: A Master's degree in Chemistry or a related science, or a BE/BTech in Chemical, Materials or a related engineering branch, as specified in the advertisement.
• Preferred skills: Hands-on experience with zeolites, adsorption, catalysis or general lab and process work is an added advantage.
• Work location: CSIR-NCL campus, Pune, Maharashtra.

Age Limit

• Project Associate-type positions at CSIR usually carry an upper age limit of around 35 years as on the last date. The exact limit for this post is stated in the advertisement.
• Age relaxation is available for SC, ST, OBC, PwBD and women candidates as per Government of India rules.

Salary

• You will get a monthly stipend as per CSIR project norms, plus House Rent Allowance (HRA) where applicable.
• Under current CSIR norms, project associate stipends generally fall in the range of about Rs. 31,000 to Rs. 35,000 per month plus HRA. The exact figure for this position is confirmed in the advertisement.

Application Fee

• CSIR-NCL project positions are normally filled through screening and interview with no application fee. Please confirm this in the official advertisement before you apply.

Selection Process

There is no written exam for this post. Selection is done in the following steps:

1. Screening of applications against the eligibility set in the advertisement.
2. Interview (in person or online) of shortlisted candidates by a selection committee.
3. Document verification of your qualification, age and category proof.

How to Apply

1. Go to the CSIR-NCL project jobs portal at jobs.ncl.res.in.
2. Complete the New Registration if you are a first-time user.
3. Open the advertisement No. 2026/CSIR-NCL/CEPD/FTT010602/769 for this position.
4. Fill in the online application form and upload your documents.
5. Submit the form before the last date and keep a copy for your records.

Important Dates

• Application Start Date: 02 July 2026
• Last Date to Apply Online: 11 July 2026
• Interview Date: To be announced on the portal

• Prepare and modify zeolite materials for oxygen separation and study their properties.
• Run adsorption and process experiments and record accurate lab data.
• Operate and maintain the laboratory equipment used in the project safely.
• Analyse results and help improve the oxygen-generation performance.
• Prepare technical notes, charts and progress reports for the project team.
• Follow all laboratory safety rules and support day-to-day project work.