The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has released an official advertisement for the recruitment of six research personnel under a prestigious project funded by the National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS). This opportunity is ideal for qualified researchers in the fields of Zoology, Botany, Environmental Science, Microbiology, and Bioinformatics who are passionate about field-based ecological studies and advanced laboratory analysis. The positions are purely temporary and contractual, based in Kolkata and field locations across the Indian Himalayan Region.
ZSI invites applications from eligible Indian nationals for the roles of Senior Research Fellow (SRF) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF), for a project titled: “Assessing the Potential Health of Indian Himalayan Peatland through Long-term Monitoring of the Eukaryotic Microbial Community and its Interaction with the Carbon Dynamics.”
Recruitment Summary and Key Details
The following table summarizes key information regarding the available positions, monthly emoluments, eligibility, and application deadlines.
| Post | No. of Posts | Monthly Emoluments | Max Age Limit | Essential Qualification | Last Date to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | 1 | ₹42,000 + HRA | 32 years | M.Sc. with 2 years research experience + SCI publication / PhD thesis submitted | 10th June 2025 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 4 | ₹37,000 + HRA (qualified) / ₹24,000 + HRA (others) | 28 years | Master’s in Zoology/Botany/Microbiology/Env. Science/Life Science | 10th June 2025 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 1 | ₹37,000 + HRA (qualified) / ₹24,000 + HRA (others) | 28 years | Master’s in Botany or equivalent | 10th June 2025 |
Before the first H2 section, note that this blog outlines not only the eligibility criteria and pay scale but also details the application process, required documents, fieldwork expectations, and general instructions candidates must follow to secure these research roles with the ZSI.
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Summary of Responsibilities, Eligibility, and Desirables
The positions are part of a broader research initiative to assess Himalayan peatland health by analyzing the eukaryotic microbial communities and their interaction with carbon dynamics. Candidates will be involved in both field and lab-based tasks, ranging from ecological surveys to molecular techniques like DNA/RNA extraction and metagenomic analysis.
Position-wise Breakdown
| Position | Key Responsibilities | Desirable Skills/Experience |
|---|---|---|
| SRF | – Field sampling for peatland soil & water- Carbon dynamics analysis- Molecular biology (PCR, NGS)- Report writing & coordination | – Soil/Water chemistry- GIS tools (ArcGIS/QGIS)- Bioinformatics pipelines- Fluorescence microscopy- Knowledge of regional languages |
| JRF (Life Sciences) | – Field sampling in Himalayan Region- DNA/RNA extraction, PCR- Sample transfer and metadata- Data analysis and scientific publication | – Molecular biology- Bryophyte taxonomy- Carbon dynamics- GIS tools- Experience in microscopy |
| JRF (Botany) | – Wetland and peat carbon analysis- Molecular biology techniques- Field documentation and report writing | – Bryophyte expertise- Scripting with R/Python- Local language proficiency |
Each candidate must demonstrate not just academic competence but also resilience and adaptability to work in high-altitude and logistically demanding environments.
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Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Interested candidates must follow a dual-submission process—sending both hard and soft copies of their applications before the deadline.
Documents Required
Applicants must attach self-attested copies of the following:
- Educational certificates and mark sheets
- Detailed CV
- Proof of date of birth
- Experience certificates
- NOC from current employer (if applicable)
- Documents supporting eligibility for age relaxation (if any)
- Published research papers (if applicable)
Submission Method
- Soft Copy: Email your completed application form (Annexure II) and documents to jasbose@gmail.com
- Hard Copy: Post your application via Registered/Speed Post to:
The Director, Zoological Survey of India,
M-Block, New Alipore,
Kolkata – 700053, West Bengal
- Subject Line / Envelope: Clearly mention – “Application for the post of SRF/JRF NMHS funded Project Assessing the Potential Health of Indian Himalayan Peatland… with kind attention to Dr. Jasmine P., Scientist E and PI of the project.”
Note: Candidates applying for multiple positions must indicate this clearly in Annexure II.
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Selection Process and Interview Mode
- Candidates will be shortlisted based on qualifications and experience.
- Shortlisted candidates will be informed via email or phone.
- The interview will be held either online via Google Meet or in person at ZSI Kolkata.
- Final selection will be based on merit and interview performance.
- Selected candidates are expected to join within two weeks of selection.
General Instructions and Conditions
- Appointments are initially for one year and can be extended based on performance and project needs.
- These are temporary, contract-based positions with no claim for regular employment.
- Candidates must ensure the accuracy of information provided; discrepancies can lead to disqualification.
- The Director, ZSI reserves the right to alter the number of posts or cancel the recruitment process without notice.
- No TA/DA will be provided for attending the interview.
Fieldwork Expectations
Selected candidates will work in a range of ecological zones across:
- Arunachal Pradesh: Tawang & West Kameng
- Sikkim: North, East, South, and West districts
- West Bengal: ZSI Headquarters in Kolkata
The assignments involve intensive fieldwork under challenging high-altitude conditions. Applicants must be physically and mentally prepared for extended stays and collaborative research in such terrains.
Contact Information
For queries or assistance:
- Dr. Jasmine P., Scientist E, Zoological Survey of India
Email: jasbose@gmail.com, pjasmine@zsi.gov.in
Phone: +91-9874983181
For more updates and to download the application form, download the Official Notification.
Stay tuned to this blog for upcoming research jobs and government project opportunities across India.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The last date to submit both soft and hard copies of the application is 10th June 2025, by 6:00 PM IST.
No, all positions are purely temporary and contractual, co-terminus with the NMHS-funded project duration.
Candidates will be shortlisted based on qualifications and experience, followed by an interview (online or offline). Final selection is based on interview performance.
Yes, both submissions are mandatory. The hard copy must be sent to ZSI Kolkata, and the soft copy emailed to jasbose@gmail.com.
Employed candidates must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) at the time of the interview.
