CSIR-NIIST Project Associate-I Recruitment 2026: Walk-in for 10 Positions
National Institute For Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) — Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
Age Eligibility & DOB Range for Project Associate-I
Cut-off Date: 24 Sep 2026 — Candidates must be between 18 to 35 years (General category). Category-wise relaxation and exact DOB boundaries are shown below.
| Category | Min Age | Max Age | Relaxation | DOB Must Be Between |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 18 yrs | 35 yrs | — | 25 Sep 1991 to 24 Sep 2008 |
| EWS | 18 yrs | 35 yrs | — | 25 Sep 1991 to 24 Sep 2008 |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 18 yrs | 38 yrs | +3 yrs | 25 Sep 1988 to 24 Sep 2008 |
| SC (Scheduled Caste) | 18 yrs | 40 yrs | +5 yrs | 25 Sep 1986 to 24 Sep 2008 |
| ST (Scheduled Tribe) | 18 yrs | 40 yrs | +5 yrs | 25 Sep 1986 to 24 Sep 2008 |
| PwD (General) | 18 yrs | 45 yrs | +10 yrs | 25 Sep 1981 to 24 Sep 2008 |
Check Your Age Eligibility — Interactive Calculator
Prescribed Age: 18–35 Years (As on 24 Sep 2026)
Executive Summary & Key Facts
The National Institute For Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) has issued an official recruitment notification for Project Associate-I, announcing a total of 10 vacancies located in Kerala. To be eligible, applicants must hold M.Sc in Chemistry/Physics/Applied Chemistry or B.Tech in Chemical/Polymer Engineering and be within the prescribed age limit of Maximum 35 years (with relaxation per GOI rules), with category relaxation applicable as per government guidelines. Selected candidates will receive an approved pay scale of Rs. 25,000 - 37,000 + HRA. The selection procedure comprises Walk-in interview and potential written test. For complete guidelines, syllabus breakdown, and official notification PDF, refer to the verified information below on ApplySarkariJob.
📅 Project Associate-I - Important Dates & Schedule
| Interview Date / Walk-in | 23 Jun 2026 |
|---|
📋 Project Associate-I - Eligibility Criteria & Vacancy Overview
| Post Name | Project Associate-I |
|---|---|
| Total Vacancies | 10 |
| Qualification | M.Sc in Chemistry/Physics/Applied Chemistry or B.Tech in Chemical/Polymer Engineering |
| Age Limit | Maximum 35 years (with relaxation per GOI rules) |
| Salary | Rs. 25,000 - 37,000 + HRA |
| Selection Process | Walk-in interview and potential written test |
📝 Project Associate-I - Detailed Notification Guide
Overview of CSIR-NIIST Project Associate-I Recruitment 2026
The National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) has announced a recruitment drive for 10 Project Associate-I positions across various research projects. This is a contractual engagement, and selection will be conducted through a walk-in interview process.
Vacancy Distribution
| Post Name | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| MSTD-8 (Chemistry/Polymer/Chemical/Polymer Engg) | 2 |
| MSTD-13 (Chemistry/Chemical) | 2 |
| MSTD-18 (Chemistry/Applied Chemistry) | 2 |
| MSTD-20 (Chemistry) | 1 |
| CSET-8 (Physics) | 3 |
Eligibility for CSIR-NIIST Project Associate-I
Candidates must meet the following educational requirements to be considered for the interview:
- MSTD-8: M.Sc in Chemistry/Polymer Chemistry or B.Tech in Chemical/Polymer Engineering. Desirable: Resin synthesis experience.
- MSTD-13: M.Sc in Chemistry or B.Tech in Chemical Engineering.
- MSTD-18: M.Sc in Chemistry or Applied Chemistry.
- MSTD-20: M.Sc in Chemistry.
- CSET-8: M.Sc in Physics. Desirable: Optoelectronic device fabrication experience.
Age Limit: The maximum age for applicants is 35 years. Age relaxation is applicable for SC, ST, OBC, PwD, and female candidates as per Government of India and CSIR guidelines.
Salary Structure
The monthly stipend depends on the project and the candidate's qualification (NET/GATE status):
- MSTD-8, 13, 18, CSET-8: Rs. 31,000 + 20% HRA (with NET/GATE) or Rs. 25,000 + 20% HRA (others).
- MSTD-20: Rs. 37,000 + 20% HRA (with NET/GATE) or Rs. 30,000 + 20% HRA (others).
Steps to Attend the CSIR-NIIST Walk-in Interview
The interview is scheduled for 23 June 2026. Candidates must follow these steps to ensure their participation:
- Verify that all academic qualifications and experience meet the specific project criteria listed in the official notification.
- Download and print the application form (if required) or prepare your resume with supporting credentials.
- Report to the designated CSIR-NIIST venue on 23 June 2026 as per the reporting time mentioned in the official notice.
- Carry original documents, including mark sheets, degree certificates, age proof, caste/category certificates, and one set of self-attested photocopies.
Important Warning
Candidates reaching the venue after the designated reporting time may be barred from the selection process. Ensure you have all necessary original documents verified before proceeding to the interview location to avoid last-minute disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age limit for CSIR-NIIST Project Associate posts?
The maximum age limit is 35 years. Standard age relaxations for reserved categories apply as per CSIR norms.
Is this a permanent job?
No, these positions are purely on a contractual basis under specific CSIR-NIIST projects.