CDFD Recruitment 2026 for Scientist V, IV and III
Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), Hyderabad, Telangana — Department of Biotechnology, Government of India
Executive Summary & Key Facts
The Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), Hyderabad, Telangana has issued an official recruitment notification for Scientist V, Scientist IV, Scientist III, announcing a total of 6 vacancies located in All India. The online application window opens on 31 October 2026 and closes on 31 December 2026. To be eligible, applicants must hold Ph.D. in Life Sciences / Biotechnology / Biochemistry / Chemistry / Computational Biology / Pharmaceutical Sciences / Molecular Biology / Agricultural Sciences / Plant Sciences / Engineering / Technology / MD / MDS / MVSc, as applicable to the post. Candidates with relevant research background and publications are preferred. and be within the prescribed age limit of Scientist V: Max 45 years; Scientist IV: Max 40 years; Scientist III: Max 35 years. Age counted as on the closing date of online application., with category relaxation applicable as per government guidelines. Selected candidates will receive an approved pay scale of Scientist V: Level 13 (Rs. 1,23,100); Scientist IV: Level 12 (Rs. 78,800); Scientist III: Level 11 (Rs. 67,700).. The selection procedure comprises Shortlisting by Screening Committee, audio-recorded PPT presentation for screened-in candidates, evaluation by Preliminary Selection Committee, and final interview by Selection Committee. Selection is based on two rounds of interviews.. For complete guidelines, syllabus breakdown, and official notification PDF, refer to the verified information below on ApplySarkariJob.
📅 Scientist V, Scientist IV, Scientist III - Important Dates & Schedule
| Application Start | 31 Oct 2026 |
|---|---|
| Last Date to Apply |
31 Dec 2026
|
| Fee Payment Deadline | 31 Dec 2026 |
📋 Scientist V, Scientist IV, Scientist III - Eligibility Criteria & Vacancy Overview
| Post Name |
💼 Scientist V
💼 Scientist IV
💼 Scientist III
|
|---|---|
| Total Vacancies | 6 |
| Qualification | Ph.D. in Life Sciences / Biotechnology / Biochemistry / Chemistry / Computational Biology / Pharmaceutical Sciences / Molecular Biology / Agricultural Sciences / Plant Sciences / Engineering / Technology / MD / MDS / MVSc, as applicable to the post. Candidates with relevant research background and publications are preferred. |
| Age Limit | Scientist V: Max 45 years; Scientist IV: Max 40 years; Scientist III: Max 35 years. Age counted as on the closing date of online application. |
| Salary | Scientist V: Level 13 (Rs. 1,23,100); Scientist IV: Level 12 (Rs. 78,800); Scientist III: Level 11 (Rs. 67,700). |
| Application Fee |
General: ₹1,500
OBC: ₹1,500
EWS: ₹1,500
SC: ₹0
ST: ₹0
fee_exempted: Yes
payment_mode: Online (SBI Collect)
|
| Selection Process | Shortlisting by Screening Committee, audio-recorded PPT presentation for screened-in candidates, evaluation by Preliminary Selection Committee, and final interview by Selection Committee. Selection is based on two rounds of interviews. |
👥 Category-Wise Vacancy Details
Total Seats: 6| Post / Designation | UR | OBC | SC | ST | EWS | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scientist V | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Scientist IV | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Scientist III | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Consolidated Total | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 6 |
Complete Salary Breakup & Allowances
7th CPC Level 13Level 13 (Rs. 1,23,100 - 2,15,900) with allowances as per rules
Age Eligibility & DOB Range for Scientist V, Scientist IV, Scientist III
Cut-off Date: As on 31 December 2026 — Candidates must be between 35 to 45 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) | 35 yrs | 45 yrs | — | 01 Jan 1982 to 31 Dec 1991 |
| EWS | 35 yrs | 45 yrs | — | 01 Jan 1982 to 31 Dec 1991 |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 35 yrs | 48 yrs | +3 yrs | 01 Jan 1979 to 31 Dec 1991 |
| SC (Scheduled Caste) | 35 yrs | 50 yrs | +5 yrs | 01 Jan 1977 to 31 Dec 1991 |
| ST (Scheduled Tribe) | 35 yrs | 50 yrs | +5 yrs | 01 Jan 1977 to 31 Dec 1991 |
| PwD (General) | 35 yrs | 55 yrs | +10 yrs | 01 Jan 1972 to 31 Dec 1991 |
Check Your Age Eligibility — Interactive Calculator
Prescribed Age: 35–45 Years (As on As on 31 December 2026)
Expected In-Hand Salary for Scientist V, Scientist IV, Scientist III — Pay Level 13 (Grade Pay ₹8,700)
This post carries Pay Level 13 (Grade Pay ₹8,700) under the 7th Central Pay Commission with entry-level basic pay of ₹123,100/month. Below is the estimated monthly in-hand salary across all three city classifications (DA at 50% included).
| Component | X-City (Metro) | Y-City (Town) | Z-City (Rural) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Pay | ₹123,100 | ₹123,100 | ₹123,100 |
| Dearness Allowance (50%) | ₹61,550 | ₹61,550 | ₹61,550 |
| HRA | ₹36,930 (30%) | ₹24,620 (20%) | ₹12,310 (10%) |
| Transport Allowance (+ DA) | ₹10,800 | ₹5,400 | ₹5,400 |
| Gross Monthly Pay | ₹232,380 | ₹214,670 | ₹202,360 |
| Total Deductions (NPS, CGHS, etc.) | −₹19,785 | −₹19,785 | −₹19,785 |
| ✨ Estimated In-Hand Salary | ₹212,595 | ₹194,885 | ₹182,575 |
Estimates based on 7th CPC Pay Matrix with current DA rate (50%). Actual salary may vary based on posting location, additional allowances, and individual deductions. Use the interactive calculator below for detailed city-wise breakdown.
7th Pay Commission In-Hand Salary Explainer
Pay Level 13 (Grade Pay ₹8,700) • Starting Basic: ₹123,100/month
📝 Scientist V, Scientist IV, Scientist III - Detailed Notification Guide
Overview of CDFD Recruitment 2026 for Scientist Posts
The Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), Hyderabad, operating under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, has officially released notification number 04/2026. This recruitment drive invites applications from dynamic and qualified researchers for 6 prestigious Group A officer posts across Scientist V, Scientist IV, and Scientist III designations. Professionals seeking high-level central government research careers can explore ongoing opportunities alongside other notable openings such as the Ministry of Civil Aviation AAI Member (Operations) Recruitment 2026 recruitment details.
Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown
| Post | Posts | Age Limit | Pay | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scientist - V | 2 | Maximum 45 years | Level 13 (₹ 1,23,100 ) | Minimum five years of post-qualification experience in responsible higher position in research / teaching Institute / University / industry with published research of highest standards and/or technologies of established utility. |
| Scientist - IV | 2 | Maximum 40 years | Level 12 (₹ 78,800 ) | Minimum three years of post-qualification experience in responsible higher position in research / teaching Institute / University / industry with published research of highest standards and/or technologies of established utility. |
| Scientist - III | 2 | Maximum 35 years | Level 11 (₹ 67,700 ) | From a recognized University or Institute or relevant areas of research. |
| Total | 6 |
Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown
| Post | UR | OBC | SC | ST | EWS | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scientist - V | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Scientist - IV | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Scientist - III | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown
| Post | Qualification | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Scientist - V | Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Computational Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Agricultural Sciences, Plant Sciences, or related disciplines; Or Ph.D in Engineering or Technology in Chemical, Biomedical, Pharmaceutical engineering; Or Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) / MDS / MVSc | Minimum five years of post-qualification experience in responsible higher position in research / teaching Institute / University / industry with published research of highest standards and/or technologies of established utility. |
| Scientist - IV | Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Computational Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Agricultural Sciences, Plant Sciences, or related disciplines; Or Ph.D in Engineering or Technology in Chemical, Biomedical, Pharmaceutical engineering; Or Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) / MDS / MVSc | Minimum three years of post-qualification experience in responsible higher position in research / teaching Institute / University / industry with published research of highest standards and/or technologies of established utility. |
| Scientist - III | Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Computational Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Agricultural Sciences, Plant Sciences, or related disciplines; Or Ph.D in Engineering or Technology in Chemical, Biomedical, Pharmaceutical engineering; Or Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) / MDS / MVSc | From a recognized University or Institute or relevant areas of research. |
CDFD stands as a premier autonomous organization funded by the Department of Biotechnology, specializing in cutting-edge research, services, and training in modern biology and DNA diagnostics. Selected candidates will be posted primarily in Hyderabad, Telangana, though deployment anywhere in India may be required based on organizational mandates. Online registration opens on 31 October 2026 and will close on 31 December 2026.
Post-Wise Vacancy Distribution
The recruitment drive offers a total of 6 regular vacancies categorized across unreserved and reserved slots as per government guidelines. Candidates must review the distribution before submitting their application.
| Post Name | UR | OBC | SC | ST | EWS | Total Posts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scientist V | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Scientist IV | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Scientist III | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Total Summary | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 6 |
Educational Qualifications and Experience Requirements
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. or equivalent higher qualification in relevant scientific and technological domains. Preferred disciplines include Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Computational Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Agricultural Sciences, Plant Sciences, Engineering, Technology, MD, MDS, or MVSc, depending on the specific requirements of the post.
In addition to educational criteria, candidates must possess relevant research background and publications. Experience requirements vary by designation: Scientist V requires 5 years, Scientist IV requires 3 years, and Scientist III requires relevant research experience counted up to the application closing date.
Age Limits and Category-Wise Relaxations
The upper age limits are strictly structured according to the designated scientist rank. Age is calculated as on the closing date of the online application, which is 31 December 2026.
- Scientist V: Maximum 45 years.
- Scientist IV: Maximum 40 years.
- Scientist III: Maximum 35 years.
Age relaxations for reserved categories such as OBC, SC, ST, PwBD, and Ex-Servicemen are applicable strictly in accordance with Government of India norms.
Salary Structure and Remuneration
Selected candidates will be placed in permanent Group A positions under the 7th Central Pay Commission pay matrix. The compensation package includes basic pay, dearness allowance, house rent allowance, and transport allowance as per central government rules applicable to Hyderabad as a Tier-Y city.
| Post Name | Pay Level | Basic Pay (Entry) | Estimated Gross / In-Hand Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scientist V | Level 13 | Rs. 1,23,100 | Gross approx. Rs. 1,93,908 (In-hand approx. Rs. 1,65,000) |
| Scientist IV | Level 12 | Rs. 78,800 | As per 7th CPC rules |
| Scientist III | Level 11 | Rs. 67,700 | As per 7th CPC rules |
Application Fee and Payment Guidelines
Unreserved, OBC, and EWS candidates are required to pay an application fee of Rs. 1500. Women candidates, along with SC, ST, Ex-servicemen, and PwBD applicants, are fully exempted from the fee upon uploading valid proof of their category status.
Payment Mode: All fee transactions must be processed online through SBI Collect. Candidates must retain the fee transaction receipt, as uploading proof is mandatory before final submission.
Selection Methodology
The recruitment process does not involve any written examination. Instead, evaluation is conducted through a rigorous multi-stage screening and interview framework managed by expert committees.
- Stage 1 (Screening Committee Shortlisting): Initial filtering based on academic credentials, research background, and publication records.
- Stage 2 (Audio-recorded PPT Presentation): Screened-in candidates are required to submit an audio-recorded PowerPoint presentation.
- Stage 3 (Preliminary Selection Committee Evaluation): Review of presentations and shortlisted profiles by specialists.
- Stage 4 (Final Interview): Comprehensive personal interview conducted by the Selection Committee for final selection.
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
Candidates must submit their applications through the online mode before the deadline of 31 December 2026 by adhering to these steps:
- Step 1: Access the official portal at http://www.cdfd.org.in and navigate to the recruitment notice for Advt. No. 04/2026.
- Step 2: Complete the new registration process using a functional email ID and mobile number.
- Step 3: Pay the required application fee of Rs. 1500 through SBI Collect (if applicable) and save the receipt.
- Step 4: Fill out the online application form accurately, ensuring all personal and academic details match official certificates.
- Step 5: Upload scanned copies of the photograph, signature, educational certificates, experience proofs, publication list, and category documents in the prescribed file size and format.
- Step 6: Submit the application form and download or print a hard copy for future professional records.
Essential Documents Checklist
Applicants must keep the following documents ready in scanned digital formats before initiating online registration:
- Valid Photo Identity Card (Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN, or Driving License)
- Recent passport-sized color photograph (JPEG format, maximum 100 KB)
- Scanned signature (JPEG format, maximum 100 KB)
- SSC/10th certificate as Date of Birth proof
- Intermediate, Bachelor Degree, Post Graduation, and Ph.D. degree certificates
- Experience certificates and employer NOC or undertaking
- Caste or category certificate (EWS, OBC-NCL, Ex-Servicemen, or PwBD)
- SBI Collect fee transaction receipt
- Complete list and reprints of research publications
Candidate Advisory and Precautions
Crucial Warnings: Ensure your name, father's name, and date of birth match your certificates precisely. If applying for multiple posts, submit separate applications and fees for each designation. Avoid last-minute technical congestion by completing submissions well ahead of the 31 December 2026 deadline.
📝 How to Apply for Scientist V, Scientist IV, Scientist III
📊 Scientist V, Scientist IV, Scientist III - Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
🎂 Scientist V, Scientist IV, Scientist III - Age Relaxation Criteria
⚠️ Important Application Guidelines & Instructions
- Ensure the name, father's name, and date of birth match exactly with your certificates.
- Apply separately for each post if you are applying for more than one post.
- Upload documents only in the prescribed file size and format.
- Complete fee payment through SBI Collect before final submission.