CMFRI JRF Deep Ocean Mission Recruitment 2026

ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi is hiring 1 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) for a Deep Ocean Mission project on deep-sea fish genomics. If you have a Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Genetics, Fisheries, Marine Biology, Zoology or Life Sciences along with a CSIR/UGC/ICAR NET or GATE qualification, you can apply by email. The last date to send your resume is 17 August 2026. The monthly emolument is Rs. 37,000 plus 20% HRA.

ICAR-CMFRI Junior Research Fellow (Deep Ocean Mission) Recruitment 2026 - 1 Post

ICAR-CMFRI, Kochi is recruiting for a Deep Ocean Mission project titled "Understanding the molecular mechanisms that confer adaptation to deep-sea habitats in selected fishes through whole genome and transcriptome sequencing." This project falls under India's Deep Ocean Mission, a national programme that studies deep-sea ecosystems and resources. The position is purely temporary and is sanctioned for 1 year and 2 months, or till the project lasts, whichever is earlier. The role involves working onboard research vessels for multiday sampling trips in the open sea, so this is best suited for candidates comfortable with fieldwork at sea, not just lab-based research. CMFRI reserves the right to fill or not fill the notified vacancy depending on project requirements. ICAR-CMFRI, Kochi is India's premier marine fisheries research institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, working on marine biodiversity, deep-sea resources, and sustainable fisheries management. This particular study focuses on how deep-sea fish species adapt at the molecular level to extreme pressure, low light, and cold temperatures found far below the ocean surface.

Who Can Apply?

• Qualification: Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Genetics, Fisheries, Marine Biology, Zoology, Life Sciences, or an equivalent degree
• Mandatory: You must have qualified the CSIR/UGC/ICAR NET or GATE examination
• Desirable: Experience in bioinformatic and genomic analyses, preferably with published papers in genomics
• Desirable: Candidates should be seaworthy and willing to undertake short-duration cruises in the open sea; experience in swimming is an added advantage

You should also be mentally prepared for the fieldwork angle of this role. The project involves extensive sampling trips in research vessels, and you must be ready to work onboard vessels for multiday sampling as and when required by the project.

Age Limit

• The age limit is 35 years for men and 40 years for women, counted as on the date of the interview.

Salary

• You will get a monthly fellowship of Rs. 37,000 plus 20% House Rent Allowance (HRA).
• This fellowship amount is fixed for the duration of the project and does not follow a regular pay-scale structure, since this is a project-linked temporary position.

Selection Process

There is no written exam for this fellowship. Selection happens in these steps:

1. Resume Screening: Your resume and scanned certificates are screened by the project team after you email them.
2. Shortlisting Communication: If shortlisted, you will be informed by 19 August 2026 through email or phone call. Only candidates who receive an interview call need to attend — you do not need to follow up if you don't hear back.
3. Interview: Shortlisted candidates attend a physical interview at ICAR-CMFRI, Kochi on 21 August 2026 at 11:00 AM. You will need to carry your bio-data along with attested copies of your testimonials and original certificates for verification at this stage.

Note: No TA/DA will be paid for attending the interview. This is a purely temporary, project-linked appointment that automatically ends with the project period, or earlier at the discretion of the Competent Authority, and does not entitle you to any claim for regular employment at ICAR-CMFRI or any other ICAR institute. Canvassing in any form for this position is prohibited.

How to Apply

1. Prepare your resume/bio-data covering your name, father's name, date of birth, address, academic qualifications, percentage of marks in your qualifying exam, research experience, and category (SC/ST/OBC, if applicable).
2. Attach scanned copies of your original certificates and a recent photograph along with your application.
3. Email these documents to deepseagenomics@gmail.com on or before 17 August 2026, mentioning the post you are applying for.
4. Wait for the screening result — shortlisted candidates will be contacted by 19 August 2026 via email or phone call.
5. If shortlisted, attend the interview at ICAR-CMFRI, Kochi on 21 August 2026 at 11:00 AM, carrying your original documents and attested copies for verification.

Important Dates

• Last Date to Email Resume: 17 August 2026
• Shortlisting Communication: By 19 August 2026
• Interview Date: 21 August 2026 at 11:00 AM

• Carry out whole genome and transcriptome sequencing analysis of selected deep-sea fish species
• Conduct molecular biology lab work including sample preparation and DNA/RNA extraction
• Perform bioinformatic and genomic data analysis using relevant software tools
• Participate in sampling trips onboard research vessels for multiday deep-sea expeditions
• Maintain accurate lab records, sample logs, and sequencing data files
• Prepare progress reports and assist in drafting research publications
• Coordinate with the Principal Investigator and project team on day-to-day research activities
• Follow lab safety and biosafety protocols during all research work