Project Associate I (Temporary Position)

📋 Job Description

- Temporary contractual position under the MACS-ARI sponsored project (ARI-004) in the Bioenergy Group.
- Focus on microbial culture collection activities with a project duration until 31.08.2028.
- Position based at G. G. Agarkar Road, Pune 411 004, under the Department of Science & Technology, Govt. of India.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

- First-class M.Sc. or M.Tech. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or Bioinformatics.
- Desirable: Demonstrated experience in Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) data analysis for microbial genomics and community analysis.
- Candidates must meet the minimum qualifications; possession alone does not guarantee interview shortlisting.
- Age limit: 35 years as of the closing date (11.08.2026). Relaxation applicable for OBC, SC, ST, and other reserved categories as per Govt. of India norms.

🏆 Selection Process

- Shortlisting of candidates based on essential qualifications and desirable experience.
- Shortlisted candidates will be called for an online interview.
- Interview may be conducted in Hindi or English as per candidate preference.
- No Travel Allowance (T.A.) will be provided for interviews.
- Selected candidates will have no claim to appointment against any ARI or funding agency posts.

📊 Key Information

Organization	MACS - Agharkar Research Institute
Location / State	Maharashtra
Job Location	Pune, Maharashtra
Category Eligibility	General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, Divyang (PwD), and Female candidates
Experience Required	- Desirable experience in NGS data analysis for microbial genomics and community analysis.
Application Start	27 July 2026
Last Date to Apply	11 August 2026

📊 ARI Recruitment - Vacancy Details

Post Name	Total Posts
Project Associate I	1
Total	1

📁 Required Documents

- Self-attested scanned copies of essential qualification certificates.
- Recent passport-sized photograph.
- Caste certificate (for reserved categories) issued by a competent authority.
- Receipt of online payment of application fee (if applicable).

🎓 Required Qualifications

📊 Vacancy Details

Total vacancies: 1 (Project Associate I under MACS-ARI project ARI-004).

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the eligibility criteria for the Project Associate I position?

A. Candidates must have a First Class M.Sc. or M.Tech. degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or Bioinformatics. Desirable experience includes demonstrated expertise in analyzing NGS data for microbial genomics and community analysis.

Q. What is the monthly stipend for the Project Associate I position?

A. The monthly stipend is Rs. 30,000 plus House Rent Allowance (HRA).

Q. Is there an application fee for this position?

A. Yes, there is a non-refundable application fee of ₹100, except for SC/ST/Divyang/Women candidates who are exempt from this fee.

Q. Can the interview be conducted in Hindi?

A. Yes, candidates have the option to appear for the interview in Hindi language.

Q. Are selected candidates eligible for permanent appointment in ARI or other funded projects?

A. No, selected candidates will have no right to appointment against any ARI or funding agency’s post/s. The positions are purely on a contractual basis.