Overview
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR CFTRI), Mysuru, has released a fresh recruitment notification for the engagement of Project Associate posts on a contractual basis. This is a great opportunity for science graduates and postgraduates looking to gain hands-on research experience at one of India's premier food technology institutes. The application process will be conducted online through the official CSIR CFTRI website.
Key Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|
| Organization | CSIR – Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysuru |
| Post Name | Project Associate (Level I & II) |
| Total Vacancies | To be announced (Multiple posts across various projects) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | www.cftri.res.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|
| Application Start Date | 15th January 2026 (Expected) |
| Last Date to Apply | 15th February 2026 (Expected) |
| Interview / Exam Date | To be announced (TBA) |
| Result Date | To be announced (TBA) |
Note: Candidates are advised to regularly check the official CSIR CFTRI website for the final and confirmed schedule.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Project Associate I: M.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Food Science, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related discipline from a recognized university.
- Project Associate II: M.Sc. with a minimum of 2 years of post-qualification research experience in the relevant field.
- Candidates with NET/GATE qualification will be given preference for higher emoluments as per DST norms.
Age Limit
- Project Associate I: Maximum 35 years as on the last date of application.
- Project Associate II: Maximum 40 years as on the last date of application.
- Age relaxation of up to 5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC, and as per rules for PwBD candidates.
Fees
- General / OBC / EWS: ₹500 (non-refundable)
- SC / ST / PwBD / Women: No application fee
- Payment to be made online via net banking, UPI, or debit/credit card.
Selection Process
- Shortlisting: Candidates will be shortlisted based on their academic records, research experience, and relevant qualifications.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an in-person or virtual interview by the selection committee.
- Final Merit List: The final selection will be based on the candidate's performance in the interview, followed by document verification and medical fitness.
How to Apply
- Visit the official CSIR CFTRI website at www.cftri.res.in.
- Navigate to the 'Careers / Recruitment' section and click on the link for Project Associate Recruitment 2026.
- Register with a valid email ID and mobile number to generate login credentials.
- Fill in the online application form with accurate personal, educational, and professional details.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, educational certificates, and experience certificates in the specified format and size.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable) and submit the form.
- Take a printout of the final submitted application form and keep it safe for future reference.
Important Links
FAQs
1. What is the stipend for Project Associate posts at CSIR CFTRI?
The stipend for Project Associate I is typically ₹25,000–₹31,000 per month (depending on NET/GATE qualification), while Project Associate II receives approximately ₹35,000 per month, as per DST funding norms.
2. Is the Project Associate post a permanent government job?
No, these are purely contractual research positions under sponsored projects. The engagement is initially for a fixed duration (usually 1–3 years) and may be extended based on project requirements and performance.
3. Can final-year M.Sc. students apply for this recruitment?
Yes, candidates appearing in their final year examinations can apply, provided they submit their degree certificate