TN Forest Department Senior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026: Overview
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department under the prestigious Project Nilgiri Tahr initiative has officially invited applications from eligible, enthusiastic, and qualified candidates for the recruitment of Senior Research Fellow (SRF). This recruitment drive aims to engage dedicated research personnel for wildlife conservation, habitat evaluation, and ecological studies centered on the state animal of Tamil Nadu, the Nilgiri Tahr.
Interested candidates fulfilling the required educational qualifications and research background can submit their application form in the offline mode on or before 20 November 2026. Candidates are advised to read the detailed official notification available on the official portal (tnprojectnilgiritahr.com) prior to filling out their application forms.
Notification Background & Project Nilgiri Tahr Details
Project Nilgiri Tahr is an ambitious initiative by the Government of Tamil Nadu aimed at restoring and protecting the natural habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Under this project, several scientific studies, field surveys, radio-telemetry research, and population estimation exercises are carried out. The Senior Research Fellow (SRF) will play a crucial role in gathering field data, monitoring animal movements, analyzing ecological parameters, and formulating strategy reports.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must ensure they possess the necessary academic qualification and research experience before applying. Below is the detailed post breakdown and eligibility requirements:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Educational Qualification & Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | Various | Post Graduate / Master's Degree in Forestry, Wildlife Biology, Zoology, Botany, Environmental Science, or relevant Life Sciences disciplines from a recognized University, along with relevant post-qualification research experience. Preference will be given to candidates with prior fieldwork experience in mountainous terrains. |
Age Limit & Relaxation Policy
The upper age limit for applying for the post of Senior Research Fellow generally follows standard government and project recruitment rules:
- Maximum Age Limit: 32 Years (as of the specified cutoff date).
- Age Relaxation: Standard age relaxations apply for reserved category candidates (SC/ST/OBC/PWD) as per the Government of Tamil Nadu recruitment rules.
Pay Scale & Monthly Remuneration
Selected candidates for the position of Senior Research Fellow will receive a monthly stipend/fellowship aligned with standard research norms under government project guidelines, along with applicable allowances where eligible. Detailed remuneration structure is outlined in the official recruitment document.
Selection Process
The recruitment process for Senior Research Fellow under Project Nilgiri Tahr consists of the following phases:
- Shortlisting of Applications: Candidates will be shortlisted based on their academic achievements, research publications, and field experience.
- Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an offline or online personal interview conducted by a selection committee.
- Document Verification: Original certificates, experience letters, and research publications will be verified before final engagement.
Detailed Selection Criteria & Evaluation Scheme
| Evaluation Stage | Criteria | Weightage / Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Performance & Qualifications | Master's Degree Marks & Academic Consistency | 30 Marks |
| Relevant Field / Research Experience | Prior work in Wildlife, Forestry, or Field Surveys | 30 Marks |
| Personal Interview | Subject Knowledge, Domain Expertise & Fitness for Terrain | 40 Marks |
How to Apply Offline for TN Forest Department SRF Recruitment 2026
Follow these step-by-step instructions to properly fill out and submit your application:
- Visit the official website of Project Nilgiri Tahr at tnprojectnilgiritahr.com.
- Navigate to the 'Careers' or 'Recruitment' section and download the official notification along with the application form template.
- Carefully fill out all requested details in the application form, including personal details, educational qualifications, research experience, and contact information.
- Attach self-attested copies of required supporting documents (Degrees, Mark Sheets, Experience Certificates, Identity Proof, Photograph).
- Send the completed application form to the designated address specified in the official notification before 20 November 2026.
Important Guidelines & Required Documents
- Ensure all information filled in the application is true and verifiable.
- Self-attested copies of Class 10th, 12th, Bachelor's, and Master's degree certificates.
- Proof of research experience or published papers (if applicable).
- Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Passport).
- Incomplete applications or applications received after 20 November 2026 will be rejected.