Project Associate-I

Applications are invited from suitable candidates (Indian Citizens) for one position of Project Associate-I in the DBT BIO-E3 funded extramural project titled “Novel Thermostable circular RNA vector for vaccine delivery: Pandemic Preparedness against Emerging Viral Infections” in the laboratory of Dr. Arun Sankaradoss, Scientist C at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram.

Details of the Recruitment

Essential Qualifications

• Good Academic record with First Class Master’s Degree in Life Sciences.
• The candidate should have a minimum of two years of documented experience in mammalian cell culture or handling laboratory animals, and an in-depth knowledge of virology.

Desirable Qualifications

• The Candidate should have qualified National Eligibility Test–CSIR-UGC-NET/LS or GATE or DBT-BET/ ICMR/DST- Inspire Fellowship/JEST/JGEEBILS.
• Experience in experimental virology (virus culture, titration, in vivo challenge) and pathology.
• Proficiency in basic molecular biology techniques, including RNA isolation, protein gel electrophoresis, and western blotting.
• Basic experience of microbiology techniques in BSL2 laboratory.
• Basic laboratory maintenance, including ordering supplies, inventory, and preparing reports, and assisting with research staff.
• Age: 32 years as on 17 th July 2026. Age relaxation will be given as per Govt. of India norms

Emolument

₹ 31,000/- + 18% HRA per month for the candidates having both essential and desirable qualifications.

₹ 25,000/- + 18% HRA per month for the candidates with essential qualification.

Duration : Initially for a period of one year or till termination of the project whichever is earlier and extendable based on the performance evaluation.

Selection Process

Applications should be submitted online.

• Candidates currently working in Government firms should send applications through proper channel.
• Last date for receiving completed applications is 17th July 2026.
• If a candidate wishes to apply for different positions, separate application forms should be submitted for each position.
• Selection to the position will not entitle the candidate to any future positions at RGCB (permanent or otherwise). As with all project positions at RGCB, the position will be co terminus with end of the project.

Note: Applications which are not in the prescribed format will summarily be rejected. Only those fulfilling the above criteria need apply. Applicants will be short listed for the online selection interview based on eligibility criteria. Selection of suitable candidates will be made based on qualifications and performance in the selection interview.