Comprehensive Overview & Notification Background
The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) has released an official recruitment notification for the post of Research Associate (Fungal Genome Engineering) for the recruitment cycle 2026. ICGEB is an elite international, nonprofit research organization dedicated to advanced research and training in molecular biology and biotechnology. This recruitment initiative offers an exceptional opportunity for dedicated research scholars and scientists seeking to contribute to cutting-edge scientific innovations in fungal molecular biology and genome engineering.
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their applications electronically via email on or before 25 August 2026. Candidates are strongly advised to thoroughly review the recruitment notification, eligibility prerequisites, application format, and submission deadlines prior to sending their credentials.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
The opening is strictly on a contract/project base aligned with ongoing scientific projects at the ICGEB campus. Below is the detailed breakdown of the position, total seats, and minimal academic qualifications required:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Required Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Research Associate (Fungal Genome Engineering) | 01 | Ph.D. in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or equivalent discipline with practical scientific experience in fungal genome engineering, CRISPR tools, or molecular genetics. candidates with published work in high-impact journals will be preferred. |
Desirable Skills & Competencies
- Proven laboratory experience in fungal culture techniques, genetic transformation, and molecular cloning.
- Hands-on expertise with recombinant DNA technology, gene knockouts/knock-ins, and transcriptomics.
- Strong analytical ability, grant-writing capabilities, and proficiency in scientific document drafting.
Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
Applicants must ensure they fulfill the age criteria set by the research agency as of the final application date:
- Upper Age Limit: 35 Years for general candidates.
- Age Relaxation: Relaxation in upper age limit is applicable for SC/ST/OBC/PWD/Female applicants as per the guidelines laid down by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, and ICGEB internal policies.
Pay Scale, Salary Structure, Allowance, & Perks
The selected candidate for the Research Associate position will be offered a competitive consolidated monthly fellowship standard for research staff as per DST/ICGEB norms.
| Post Name | Emoluments / Remuneration | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Research Associate | As per DST Guidelines (Fellowship + Standard HRA as admissible) | Access to world-class research facilities, international scientific exposure, and institutional infrastructure support. |
Selection Process
The selection procedure for the post of Research Associate (Fungal Genome Engineering) comprises a transparent two-stage evaluation process designed to assess academic excellence and practical research skills:
- Stage 1 - Initial Profile Screening: Received applications will be evaluated based on educational records, relevance of doctoral research work, publications, and experience certificates. Only shortlisted candidates will receive an interview call.
- Stage 2 - Personal Interview: Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interaction (either offline at the ICGEB New Delhi campus or online through video conferencing) before a expert selection board.
- Stage 3 - Final Selection & Document Verification: Final selection is contingent upon document verification, medical fitness declaration, and acceptance of offer terms.
Detailed Evaluation Pattern & Marking Scheme
Since this recruitment is primarily based on academic merit and interview performance, there is no traditional written examination. Evaluation criteria follow a structured distribution:
| Assessment Head | Weightage / Marks | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Credentials & Doctoral Thesis Relevance | 30 Marks | Alignment with Fungal Genome Engineering and molecular research. |
| Research Publications & Patents | 30 Marks | Quality, impact factor, and authorship sequence in indexing databases. |
| Personal Interview & Technical Presentation | 40 Marks | Subject knowledge, problem-solving approach, research presentation, and future vision. |
| Total | 100 Marks | Overall merit determination. |
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply
Candidates desiring to apply for the ICGEB Research Associate vacancy should closely follow the step-by-step submission process detailed below:
- Visit the official ICGEB portal at www.icgeb.org or access the dedicated career portal section.
- Read the official job advertisement for the Fungal Genome Engineering project carefully.
- Prepare a updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic qualifications, awards, research experience, and complete list of publications.
- Include a cover letter highlighting research achievements, technical skill set, and statement of purpose for joining ICGEB.
- Attach scanned copies of relevant certificates (Ph.D. degree/provisional certificate, mark sheets, age proof, and work experience letters).
- Submit the completed application package via email to the designated principal investigator/contact address as specified in the recruitment advertisement on or before 25 August 2026.
Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification
Applicants who clear the initial shortlisting phase must produce the original documents listed below during physical verification or interview confirmation:
- Secondary School Certificate / Matriculation mark sheet as proof of date of birth.
- Degree certificates and detailed mark sheets for Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees.
- Copy of published research papers, journal covers, and patent documentation (if any).
- Experience certificates, recommendation letters, or testimonials from previous project supervisors/heads of institution.
- Valid photo identity document (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or PAN Card).
- Caste/Category certificate issued by a competent authority, if applicable for age relaxation.