MKU Project Assistant Recruitment 2026

Madurai Kamaraj University (MKU) has released a notification for 1 Project Assistant position in the Department of Plant Biotechnology. You need an M.Sc. (First Class) in Biotechnology or related life sciences to apply. The position is funded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and runs for 3 years. Last date to apply is 30 April 2026. Fellowship will be paid as per Ministry of Science and Technology norms.

MKU Project Assistant Recruitment 2026 - 1 Post

Madurai Kamaraj University (MKU), a NAAC A++ accredited university in Tamil Nadu, has invited applications for one Project Assistant post under the ANRF-supported research project titled "The Role of Host-Derived Extrachromosomal Circular DNA in Shaping Begomovirus Genome Complexity and Diversity." This is a purely research-based position in the Department of Plant Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology. If you have a strong background in bioinformatics and molecular biology, this is a great opportunity to work on cutting-edge genomics research at a reputed university.

Who Can Apply?

• Qualification: You need an M.Sc. (First Class) in any of the following subjects: Biotechnology, Microbiology, Microbial Gene Technology, Bioinformatics, Life Sciences, Plant Sciences, Genomic Sciences, Biochemistry, or Agriculture.
• Essential Skills: You must have research exposure in bioinformatics, especially Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) data analysis. Hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques is also required.

Fellowship

• The fellowship will be paid as per Ministry of Science and Technology norms.
• As per the current SERB/ANRF guidelines for R&D projects, Project Assistants with B.Sc. qualification get Rs. 20,000 per month + HRA. Since this post requires M.Sc. (First Class), the actual fellowship may be higher based on the PI's project budget and ANRF norms.
• The position is co-terminus with the ANRF project (3-year duration).

Selection Process

1. Application Screening: Submit your CV with full academic and research details by email.
2. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview in the second week of May 2026. You will be informed via email and phone.

Note: No TA/DA will be provided for attending the interview.

How to Apply

1. Prepare your detailed CV with full academic qualifications and research experience.
2. Send your CV by email to pgopal.biotech@mkuniversity.ac.in before 30 April 2026, 5:00 PM.
3. If shortlisted, bring 5 hard copies of your latest CV to the interview.

This is an email-based application. There is no online application portal for this post.

Important Dates

• Notification Date: 02 April 2026
• Last Date to Apply (Email): 30 April 2026 (5:00 PM)
• Interview: Second week of May 2026 (exact date to be communicated to shortlisted candidates)

• Assist in research on extrachromosomal circular DNA and Begomovirus genome studies
• Handle bioinformatics analysis including Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) data processing
• Perform molecular biology experiments and laboratory techniques
• Maintain laboratory records, reagent stocks, and experimental documentation
• Prepare research data, presentations, and contribute to manuscript writing
• Follow laboratory safety protocols and university research guidelines