Comprehensive Overview & Notification Background
CSIR - Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR CFTRI), Mysuru, a premier constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has released the official recruitment notification for 2026 targeting eligible candidates for the post of Project Associate - II. Candidates interested in scientific research and advanced development projects in food science and technology are invited to apply for this vacancy before the closing date of 23 August 2026.
CSIR CFTRI offers an outstanding platform for early-career researchers and engineers to work on cutting-edge research projects. This recruitment campaign aims to select an qualified professional on a purely temporary project basis, providing excellent practical laboratory exposure and opportunities to collaborate with leading scientists in the country.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
The recruitment notification specifies 1 opening for the Project Associate - II position. Detailed eligibility requirements must be met by all applicants before submission of their applications.
Vacancy Table
| Post Name | Total Vacancy | Educational Qualification & Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Project Associate - II | 01 | Master's Degree (M.Sc / M.Tech or equivalent) in relevant branch of Science/Technology from a recognized University/Institution, along with 2 years of relevant research/industrial exposure in relevant fields. |
Educational Qualifications
- Degree: M.Sc. / M.Tech in Food Technology, Biotechnology, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or allied scientific streams.
- Experience: Minimum of 2 years of research and development experience in industrial or academic institutions or science and technology organizations.
- Desirable: Qualified national level exams conducted by CSIR-UGC NET, GATE, or equivalent national eligibility tests.
Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
Applicants must satisfy the age requirement specified by CSIR CFTRI as on the last date of application submission (23 August 2026).
- Maximum Age Limit: 35 Years for General/Unreserved candidates.
- Age Relaxation: Standard upper age limit relaxation is admissible for candidates belonging to SC, ST, OBC, PwD, and female candidate categories in accordance with the prevailing Government of India / CSIR norms.
Pay Scale, Salary Structure, Allowance, & Perks
The selected Project Associate - II will be awarded a monthly stipend structure aligned with CSIR/DST guidelines based on qualification and national exam performance:
- With NET/GATE qualification: Rs. 35,000/- per month + applicable HRA.
- Without NET/GATE qualification: Rs. 28,000/- per month + applicable HRA.
- Perks: Medical support and laboratory resources as per institute project guidelines.
Selection Process
The selection process for the CSIR CFTRI Project Associate - II post involves the following stages:
- Screening of Applications: Initial shortlisting based on educational merit, experience, and candidate profile.
- Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online or offline personal interview to evaluate specialized domain knowledge and research aptitude.
- Document Verification: Final selection is contingent upon authenticating original educational certificates, experience credentials, and identity proofs.
Detailed Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
There is usually no written examination for Project Associate positions at CSIR CFTRI. The selection is conducted primarily through personal interview or interaction.
| Evaluation Stage | Assessment Focus | Total Marks / Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Application Screening | Academic Record & Work Experience | Shortlisting Criteria |
| Personal Interview | Domain Knowledge, Research Skills & Suitability | 100 Marks |
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fill the Online Application Form
Eligible candidates can complete their application online through the official CSIR CFTRI website before 23 August 2026. Follow these straightforward steps to apply:
- Visit the official portal of CSIR CFTRI at cftri.res.in.
- Navigate to the 'Careers' or 'Recruitment' section on the homepage.
- Locate the notification for Project Associate - II Recruitment 2026.
- Read the official notification thoroughly to ensure fulfillment of eligibility criteria.
- Click on the 'Apply Online' link for the desired position.
- Fill in personal, educational, and experience details accurately in the online application form.
- Upload clear scanned copies of required documents, including degree certificates, mark sheets, experience certificates, and passport-size photo.
- Verify all filled information carefully prior to final submission.
- Submit the application form and save/print a copy for future reference.
Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification
Candidates selected for the interview/verification process must carry the following original documents along with self-attested photocopies:
- Printed application form copy.
- 10th / Secondary Mark Sheet as proof of date of birth.
- Master's Degree Certificate and consolidated mark statements.
- Experience certificates from prior employers/institutions.
- Valid Caste / Category certificate (if applicable).
- National exam qualification scorecard (CSIR-UGC NET / GATE), if applicable.
- Valid photo identity proof (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License).