The Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), an autonomous institute under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, has announced a temporary position for a Project Associate-I. This is a prime opportunity for highly qualified and motivated Indian Citizens with a background in chemistry or biotechnology to engage in cutting-edge research at the Thiruvananthapuram campus.
The selected candidate will work on an ANRF-funded project titled "Organelle specific fluorescence probes to study intracellular dynamics and calcium signaling" in the laboratory of Dr. Nagarjun Narayanaswamy. This role is ideal for post-graduates who have qualified a National Eligibility Test and possess documented experience in organic synthesis, offering a competitive fellowship and exposure to advanced biochemical research.
Organization Overview
The Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB) is a premier research institute dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in biotechnology and life sciences. Operating under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, RGCB focuses on various areas including disease biology, plant biotechnology, and molecular biology. The Centre is located at Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. As a project-based position, the employment is temporary and co-terminus with the end of the project.
Vacancy Details
There is one position available for the post of Project Associate-I. The position is on a temporary basis for a fixed tenure.
- Post Name: Project Associate-I
- Number of Vacancies: 1
- Job Type: Temporary, Fixed Tenure Contract (Project Position)
- Job Location: RGCB, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Eligibility Criteria
The key criteria revolve around high academic performance, qualification in a National Eligibility Test, and specific hands-on laboratory experience.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Below 28 years as on September 30th, 2025. Age relaxation is applicable as per Government of India norms. |
| Educational Qualification | Good Academic record with First Class Master's Degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Biotechnology. |
| National Eligibility Test | Must be qualified in a National Eligibility Test (NET) such as CSIR-UGC-NET/LS, DBT-BET, ICMR/Fellowship, or GATE. |
| Experience | Candidate must have at least six months to one year of documented experience in Organic synthesis. |
| Desirable Qualification | The notification lists desirable qualifications for the Project Associate-I role. |
Application Process
The application process for this temporary research position is completely online.
- Step 1: Access the RGCB website and click the 'Apply Online' link.
- Step 2: Complete the application form with all required details. Applications must be in the prescribed format or they will be summarily rejected.
- Step 3: Ensure all necessary documentation is ready to prove eligibility (Master's Degree, NET/GATE qualification, and documented experience).
- Step 4: Candidates currently working in Government firms must send their applications through the proper channel.
- Step 5: Submit the application before the deadline. If applying for different positions (at RGCB), a separate application must be submitted for each.
Selection Process
The selection process is straightforward and merit-based, focusing on the candidate's qualifications and interview performance.
- Applicants will be shortlisted for an online selection interview based on the eligibility criteria.
- Only those fulfilling the specified criteria need to apply.
- Selection of suitable candidates will be made based on their qualifications and performance in the selection interview.
- No TA/DA will be provided for appearing in the interview.
- Note that selection for this position will not entitle the candidate to any future positions at RGCB (permanent or otherwise).
Salary & Benefits
The remuneration is a monthly consolidated pay with an allowance for House Rent Allowance (HRA).
The final emolument depends on whether the candidate is qualified for a National Eligibility Exam (NET/GATE, etc.) or not.
- NET/GATE/Fellowship Qualified Candidates: ₹37,000/- + 16% HRA per month.
- Non-NET/GATE Qualified Candidates: ₹30,000/- + 16% HRA per month.
- Hostel Facilities will not be provided by RGCB.
The duration of the contract is for a period of one year or till the termination of the project (whichever is earlier), and it is extendable based on performance evaluation.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Date | September 11, 2025 |
| Age Cutoff Date | September 30, 2025 |
| Last Date for Receiving Completed Applications (Online Submission) | September 30, 2025 |
Application Fee
The official notification does not mention any application fee for this temporary project position.
Preparation Tips
- Master Organic Synthesis: Given the essential experience requirement, be ready to discuss your six months to one year of documented experience in Organic synthesis in detail during the interview. Review reaction mechanisms, purification techniques, and instrument handling related to synthesis.
- Understand the Project: Research the project title, "Organelle specific fluorescence probes to study intracellular dynamics and calcium signaling" to demonstrate a clear understanding of the research goals and how your chemical expertise fits in.
- Review Basic Biotechnology: Brush up on fundamental concepts in Biochemistry/Biotechnology, as the role is interdisciplinary. Knowledge of cell dynamics and signaling pathways is important for context.
- Prepare for Online Interview: Ensure you have a stable internet connection, professional attire, and a quiet background for the online selection interview.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
- Q1: What is the last date to apply for the RGCB Project Associate-I post? Ans: The last date for receiving completed online applications is September 30, 2025.
- Q2: What is the salary for NET-qualified candidates? Ans: Qualified candidates will receive an emolument of ₹37,000/- + 16% HRA per month.
- Q3: What is the age limit for this position? Ans: The candidate must be below 28 years as on September 30th, 2025.
- Q4: Is this a permanent job? Ans: No, the position is temporary and co-terminus with the end of the ANRF-funded project, though it is initially for one year and extendable based on performance.
- Q5: Is a NET/GATE qualification compulsory? Ans: Yes, a First Class Master's Degree with a qualified National Eligibility Test (NET/GATE/DBT-BET/ICMR) is an essential qualification.