RGCB Research Associate-I Recruitment 2026

About Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) and the Research Associate-I Post

The Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, stands as a premier institute dedicated to research and development in the frontier areas of biotechnology. An autonomous institution under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, RGCB plays a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge and developing innovative solutions for health and disease management. This recruitment drive offers an exceptional opportunity for highly motivated researchers to contribute to cutting-edge scientific projects.

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

RGCB has announced a specialized recruitment for the position of Research Associate-I under Advertisement No. 16/2026. This singular vacancy is within the Laboratory of Dr. Debasree Dutta, Scientist F, focusing on critical research in life sciences. Candidates passionate about stem cell research and molecular biology techniques, seeking to contribute to significant scientific advancements in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, should consider this prestigious opportunity. If you're looking to explore all latest Kerala Government Jobs, this is a significant opening in the research sector.

Eligibility Criteria & Age Limit for RGCB Research Associate-I

Prospective candidates must carefully review the eligibility requirements to ensure they meet the specific academic and experience benchmarks set by RGCB. This position requires specialized expertise in advanced biotechnological domains.

Educational Qualification:

• Mandatory: A PhD in Life Sciences.
• Required Experience: Demonstrated experience in embryonic stem cells / mammalian cell culture (thesis certified) and expertise in differentiation strategies of stem cells.
• Desirable Experience: Candidates with additional experience in the derivation of embryonic stem cells from embryo, embryo handling, teratoma generation, muscle stem cell differentiation, mouse handling, and related cellular and molecular biology techniques such as western blot, RT-PCR, IF, FACS, and IHC analysis will be highly preferred.

Age Limit:

• The upper age limit for applicants is below 35 years as on 23 October 2026.
• Age Relaxation: Relaxation in the upper age limit will be provided as per the extant Government of India norms for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwD/Ex-SM).

This role is ideal for Post Graduate and PhD holders looking for impactful research positions. Candidates can also check more Post Graduate jobs in Kerala for similar opportunities.

Remuneration & Contractual Details

The selected Research Associate-I will receive an attractive monthly emolument along with House Rent Allowance (HRA), making it a competitive offering for research professionals.

• Salary: The appointed candidate will be entitled to a consolidated salary of ₹58,000 per month + 18% HRA.
• Gross Emoluments: This translates to a gross monthly emolument of approximately ₹68,440.
• Employment Nature: This is a contractual position, initially for a duration of 4 months or until the termination of the project, whichever occurs earlier.
• Extension: The contract is extendable based on satisfactory performance evaluation and project requirements.

Selection Process for Research Associate-I

The selection process for the Research Associate-I position at RGCB is designed to identify highly skilled and experienced candidates suitable for the research demands of the project. Transparency and merit are the cornerstones of this process.

1. Stage 1: Shortlisting based on eligibility: Applications will be thoroughly screened against the specified educational qualifications and experience criteria. Only candidates who meet all essential requirements will be shortlisted.
2. Stage 2: Online Selection Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview. This round will assess their technical knowledge, research aptitude, practical experience, and communication skills relevant to the post.
3. Stage 3: Document Verification: Candidates provisionally selected after the interview stage will undergo a mandatory document verification process to confirm the authenticity of their submitted credentials.

Important Dates to Remember

Candidates must adhere to the stipulated timelines for application submission. Missing any deadline could lead to disqualification.

• Application Start Date: 13 October 2026
• Last Date to Apply Online: 23 October 2026

It is strongly advised to complete the application process well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute technical glitches.

Application Fee Details

Applicants for the Research Associate-I post at RGCB will find the application process to be free of cost.

• General/OBC/EWS Candidates: ₹0
• SC/ST Candidates: ₹0
• PwD Candidates: ₹0
• Payment Mode: Not Applicable, as no fee is required.

This fee exemption makes the opportunity accessible to all eligible candidates.

How to Apply Online for RGCB Research Associate-I Recruitment 2026

The application process for the Research Associate-I position is entirely online. Follow these detailed steps to successfully submit your application:

1. Step 1: Visit the Official Application Portal: Navigate to the designated RGCB application portal at rgcb.res.in/tempposition/.
2. Step 2: Review the Official Advertisement: Before proceeding, download and carefully read the full official advertisement (Notification No. 16/2026) available at rgcb.res.in/adv-2026-16. Understand all instructions, eligibility criteria, and warnings.
3. Step 3: Register and Fill Application Form: Register on the portal if you are a new user. Then, proceed to fill out the online application form with all required personal details, educational qualifications, and relevant research experience accurately and as per your official records.
4. Step 4: Upload Required Documents: Scan and upload all necessary documents, including photographs and signatures, in the specified format and dimensions. Ensure the quality and clarity of uploaded files.
5. Step 5: Review and Submit: Carefully review all the information entered in the application form before final submission. Once satisfied, submit the application online.
6. Step 6: Print Application: After successful submission, take a printout of the completed application form for your records.
7. Step 7: Monitor Updates: Regularly check the official RGCB website (www.rgcb.res.in) for updates regarding shortlisting, interview schedules, and other announcements.

Essential Documents Checklist for Application

Candidates must prepare and keep ready the following documents in scanned format for online submission. Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and adhere to the specified file size and format requirements.

• Photo Identity Card: A valid government-issued Photo ID such as Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, or Driving License.
• Photographs: Recent passport-sized color photographs with a light background.
• Educational Certificates: Marksheets and certificates for 10th Class, 12th Class, Degree (UG/PG), and PhD.
• Caste/Category Certificate: If applicable (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS), in the prescribed format issued by the competent authority.
• Signature: Scanned copy of the applicant's signature, adhering to specified pixel and file size limits.
• Experience Certificates: Relevant experience certificates demonstrating expertise in embryonic stem cells/mammalian cell culture and differentiation strategies of stem cells.

Candidate Advisory & Crucial Precautions

To ensure a smooth application process and avoid common pitfalls, candidates should pay close attention to the following advisories:

• Name and DOB Matching: Ensure that your name, father's name, and date of birth entered in the application form match EXACTLY with your 10th Class / Matriculation certificate. Discrepancies may lead to rejection.
• Single Application: Do not submit multiple application forms for the same post. Duplicate submissions will invariably lead to outright rejection of all applications.
• Photograph and Signature: Before finalizing your submission, meticulously verify the scanned photograph and signature dimensions. Incorrect specifications can invalidate your application technically.
• Deadline Adherence: Since there is no application fee, ensure your online application is submitted completely before the deadline of 23 October 2026. Incomplete submissions will not be entertained.
• Official Website: Rely only on the official RGCB website for all announcements and updates related to this recruitment.