Overview of CSIR Assistant Section Officer Recruitment 2026
The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) has initiated the recruitment process for 100 Assistant Section Officer (ASO) vacancies under Advertisement No. E-I/RC/2026/2. This recruitment is exclusively for candidates who appeared for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE-2024) but were not finally recommended for service and are listed on the UPSC Pratibha Setu Portal.
Vacancy Distribution for CSIR ASO 2026
Eligibility for CSIR ASO 2026
Candidates must possess a university degree. Crucially, eligibility is restricted to individuals who participated in the UPSC CSE-2024 and whose details are verified on the UPSC Pratibha Setu Portal. The upper age limit is 33 years as of 13 July 2026, with standard government-prescribed relaxations for reserved categories.
Selection Process and CPT
Selection is based on the aggregate marks secured in the UPSC CSE-2024 Mains and Personality Test. Following shortlisting (in a 1:5 ratio), candidates must qualify for a Computer Proficiency Test (CPT). The CPT assesses skills in Word Processing, Spreadsheet management, and PowerPoint presentations. Failure to secure the minimum threshold in the CPT (30% to 40% depending on category) leads to disqualification regardless of UPSC marks.
Steps to Apply for CSIR ASO Recruitment 2026
- Visit the official portal at https://recruitment.csir.res.in/assistant_section_officer_2026/index.php.
- Register using your UPSC Roll Number.
- Complete the six-tab application form including personal details, educational qualifications, and experience.
- Upload the required documents, including the photograph, signature, and CSE-2024 mark sheets as a single PDF.
- Pay the application fee of ₹500 (for UR/OBC/EWS) via SBI Collect.
- Upload the e-receipt and submit the final form before the deadline of 13 July 2026.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Candidates are advised to ensure their names are present on the UPSC Pratibha Setu Portal before applying. Once the profile is locked, data cannot be modified. Furthermore, payment of the fee is insufficient; the e-receipt must be uploaded to the portal by the application deadline. Any failure to upload the document within the stipulated time renders the application incomplete.
