BSI Project Associate I Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online

The Botanical Survey of India (BSI), Central Regional Centre, Prayagraj has invited applications for one temporary Project Associate-I post in the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)-sponsored Inclusivity Research Grant (IRG) project on Myrsinaceae in the Western Ghats. The project runs for three years. Pay is Rs. 37,000 + HRA (20%) for scholars selected through CSIR-UGC NET, GATE or certain national-level examinations, and Rs. 30,000 + HRA (20%) for others. The essential qualification is a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Botany from a recognised University, as per applicable ANRF guidelines. Applications go by email to [email protected] and must reach by 4 December 2026, 5:00 PM.

BSI Project Associate-I at a Glance

The official notification does not specify the application fee or an advertisement number.

About BSI Central Regional Centre

The Botanical Survey of India Central Regional Centre is located at 10 Chatham Lines, Prayagraj – 211002, Uttar Pradesh. It is the host institute for this ANRF-sponsored project. The Principal Investigator is Dr. M. Bheemalingappa, Scientist-B.

Who Can Apply

Essential qualification: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Botany from a recognised University, as per applicable ANRF guidelines. The notice says the essential qualifications and emoluments are governed by the applicable ANRF guidelines and the terms of the project sanction.

Age: the upper age limit is as prescribed under the applicable ANRF guidelines and Government of India rules. Age relaxation for eligible categories is considered in accordance with the applicable provisions. The notice prints no age in years and no cut-off date for age.

Desirable qualifications:

• Specialisation or research experience in Plant Taxonomy, Systematics, Plant Molecular Biology, Biodiversity or Conservation Biology.
• Practical knowledge of DNA isolation, PCR, DNA barcoding and molecular laboratory techniques.
• Familiarity with phylogenetic analysis, sequence databases and bioinformatics tools.
• Experience in field botanical surveys, plant specimen collection, herbarium preparation and identification.
• Research publications and relevant dissertation/project experience will be an advantage.

Candidates should check the official notification for the full eligibility terms.

Pay and Tenure

HRA is admissible as per applicable rules. The position is purely temporary and contractual and is co-terminus with the ANRF-sponsored project. The initial appointment is ordinarily for one year, extendable on a yearly basis up to the project duration, subject to satisfactory performance, project requirements and availability of funds. The selected candidate has no claim for regular appointment or absorption in BSI or ANRF.

BSI Project Associate-I Job Description

The selected Project Associate-I will work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and will be required to:

1. Undertake field surveys and systematic collection, documentation of the family Myrsinaceae in the Western Ghats of India.
2. Identification, taxonomic characterisation and preparation of herbarium specimens.
3. Carry out molecular laboratory work, including plant genomic DNA isolation, DNA quantification, PCR amplification and DNA barcoding.
4. Sequencing-related activities and the compilation and analysis of molecular data.
5. Undertake phylogenetic analyses and molecular systematic studies using appropriate bioinformatics tools.
6. Prepare and maintain specimen, field, laboratory and molecular data records.
7. Assessment of species diversity, endemism, distribution patterns and conservation status of the target taxa.
8. Assist the Principal Investigator in preparing research reports, scientific manuscripts, presentations and other project-related documents.
9. Perform other research activities assigned by the Principal Investigator in accordance with the approved objectives of the project.

The selected candidate may be required to undertake field surveys in the Western Ghats and other project-related locations, as well as laboratory, herbarium and conservation-based research activities. The candidate must join at BSI, Central Regional Centre, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh within the stipulated period after receiving the offer of appointment.

How to Apply for BSI Project Associate-I

1. Fill in the prescribed application form printed in the notice.
2. Attach a detailed curriculum vitae and self-attested copies of all relevant certificates and supporting documents.
3. Email the application to [email protected].
4. Write this subject line: "Application for the Post of Project Associate-I under ANRF/IRG Project – BSI CRC, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh."
5. Make sure the application is received by 4 December 2026, 5:00 PM.

The application form asks for personal details, educational qualifications from Matriculation onwards, national-level eligibility examinations (CSIR-UGC NET, UGC NET, GATE, DBT-JRF/ICMR-JRF or other recognised national-level examination), research experience, dissertation/project details with a summary of up to 300 words, technical skills, publications, other information and details of two academic/research referees, followed by a signed declaration.

Documents named in the notice

• Recent detailed curriculum vitae
• Self-attested copies of Bachelor's and Master's degree certificates
• Consolidated mark sheets/transcripts
• NET/GATE or other national-level examination certificate, if applicable
• Caste/category certificate, if applicable
• Experience certificates, if applicable
• Dissertation/thesis abstract
• List of research publications
• Any other relevant supporting documents

Selection and Interview

Applications are scrutinised by a duly constituted committee, and only shortlisted candidates are called for an interview. The date, time and mode/venue of the interview will be communicated to shortlisted candidates through email. Selection is based on academic qualifications, relevant research experience, subject knowledge, practical skills and performance in the interview. Candidates must produce original certificates and documents for verification at the time of the interview. No TA/DA is paid for attending the interview. The decision of the competent authority of BSI regarding recruitment and selection is final.

Important Instructions

• Applications received after the deadline or found incomplete may not be considered.
• Incomplete applications, applications without supporting documents or applications received after the last date may be rejected.
• Any attempt to influence the selection process will result in disqualification.
• The competent authority reserves the right to cancel or modify the recruitment process without assigning any reason.
• Any corrigendum or further information will be notified through the appropriate official communication channels.

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