ICAR IARI Senior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026: Overview
The ICAR - Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), India's premier institution for agricultural research and education, has officially published the notification for the recruitment of Senior Research Fellow (SRF) posts for the year 2026. A total of 3 vacancies have been announced under temporary/contractual research projects at ICAR-IARI. Qualified candidates who hold postgraduate degrees in agricultural sciences or allied streams with valid ICAR-NET, CSIR-NET, UGC-NET, or GATE qualifications are invited to submit their application before the deadline of 28 August 2026.
Notification Background & Essential Highlights
The recruitment drive aims to engage young, dynamic, and research-oriented professionals for high-priority agricultural research schemes. Appointment for Senior Research Fellows will initially be on a contractual basis for a period of one year, extendable depending on performance and project duration. The recruitment authority will shortlist applications based on educational credentials and experience, followed by a formal interview round.
Vacancies Breakdown & Qualification Eligibility
Detailed information regarding vacancy allocation and educational criteria for the Senior Research Fellow position is structured below:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Essential & Desirable Qualifications |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | 03 | Essential: Master's Degree (M.Sc. / M.Tech) in Agriculture, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Agronomy, Genetics, or relevant discipline with 4 years / 5 years of Bachelor's degree. Candidates having 3 years Bachelor's degree and 2 years Master's degree must possess NET/GATE qualification. Desirable: Working knowledge of molecular biology techniques, field trials, bioinformatics, and data analysis. |
Age Limit, Relaxation Rules & Reservation Guidelines
Age bounds for candidates applying for ICAR IARI SRF positions are evaluated as per ICAR rules on the closing date of application (28 August 2026):
- Upper Age Limit for Men: 35 Years
- Upper Age Limit for Women: 40 Years
- OBC Candidates: Relaxation up to 3 years (Max 38 Years)
- SC / ST / PwBD Candidates: Relaxation up to 5 years (Max 40 Years)
Reserved category candidates seeking age relaxation must present valid caste or disability certificates issued by competent government authorities during document verification.
Pay Scale, Consolidated Emoluments & Allowances
Selected Senior Research Fellows are eligible for monthly remuneration strictly in accordance with ICAR rules and research funding agency norms:
| Tenure / Designation | Monthly Consolidated Remuneration | House Rent Allowance (HRA) |
|---|---|---|
| 1st & 2nd Year | Rs. 31,000/- per month | As per central government rules applicable to the posting city |
| 3rd Year Onwards | Rs. 35,000/- per month | As per central government rules applicable to the posting city |
No other allowances like DA, CCA, or medical reimbursement will be permissible beyond the structured stipend and HRA provided under project guidelines.
Selection Process Details
The selection methodology for ICAR IARI Senior Research Fellow recruitment comprises two sequential stages:
- Screening & Shortlisting: Applications received by 28 August 2026 will be evaluated by an expert screening committee. Shortlisting will be based on academic performance, NET/GATE scores, research publications, and relevant work experience.
- Personal Interview: Shortlisted applicants will receive notifications for an in-person or virtual interview. The final selection list will be published based on performance in the interview.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply Online
Eligible candidates can apply for the ICAR IARI SRF post by following the step-by-step instructions below:
- Visit the official website of ICAR-IARI at https://iari.res.in.
- Navigate to the 'Announcements' / 'Recruitment' / 'Contractual Jobs' section on the homepage.
- Locate the notification link titled 'Recruitment for Senior Research Fellow (SRF) Posts 2026' and read the detailed official PDF carefully.
- Download the prescribed application form template available along with the official advertisement.
- Fill in all required fields including personal details, academic qualifications, NET details, and experience.
- Attach self-attested copies of essential certificates (Date of Birth proof, Mark sheets, NET/GATE qualification certificate, Experience certificates, Category certificate).
- Submit the completed application form via the specified email ID or online submission portal before 28 August 2026.
Important Guidelines & Required Verification Documents
Candidates must produce original documentation at the time of the interview or joining process. Required documents include:
- Printed Application Form signed by the applicant.
- Secondary School (10th) Certificate for Age proof.
- Bachelor’s & Master’s Degree mark sheets and degree certificates.
- National Eligibility Test (ICAR-NET / CSIR-NET / UGC-NET) or GATE scorecard.
- Work Experience Certificates / Research Publications (if applicable).
- Caste Certificate (SC/ST/OBC) or PwBD Certificate in standard Central Government format.
- Recent passport-size color photographs and government-issued Photo ID proof (Aadhaar / Voter ID / Passport).