Central University of Kerala has released a notification inviting applications for the post of Junior Research Fellow (JRF) in an ANRF-ARG research project. The vacancy is available in the Department of Plant Sciences, School of Biological Sciences. This opportunity is suitable for candidates with a strong academic background in Plant Science, Botany, Genomics, Biotechnology, Biochemistry or Molecular Biology.
The selected candidate will work under the project titled “Understanding ER stress-induced programmed cell death pathway and its role in stress responses of plants”. This is a research-based temporary position and will be guided by Dr. Pramod Kandoth, Associate Professor, Department of Plant Sciences. Candidates with CSIR-UGC-NET or GATE qualification and relevant subject knowledge can apply through the Google Form link mentioned in the official notification. The last date to submit the application is 03 July 2026.
Job Overview
| Organization | Central University of Kerala |
| Post Name | Junior Research Fellow |
| Notification No. | CUK/PLS/PKK/ARG2025/HR-01 |
| No. of Vacancies | 01 |
| Department | Department of Plant Sciences |
| School | School of Biological Sciences |
| Project Type | ANRF-ARG Project |
| Qualification | M.Sc with CSIR-UGC-NET / GATE qualification |
| Fellowship | Rs. 37,000 + HRA for first 2 years; Rs. 42,000 + HRA for 3rd year |
| Tenure | Three years or co-terminus with the project, whichever is earlier |
| Age Limit | Below 28 years as on last date of application |
| Application Mode | Google Form |
| Notification Date | 19 June 2026 |
| Last Date | 03 July 2026 |
About the Recruitment
The Central University of Kerala is recruiting one Junior Research Fellow for a temporary research project in plant sciences. The post is connected with an ANRF-ARG project that studies ER stress-induced programmed cell death pathway and its role in plant stress responses.
The post is initially for one year. However, it may be extended up to the completion of the project based on the performance assessment of the selected candidate. Since this is a project-based research position, the appointment will not be a permanent university job.
Job Description
The Junior Research Fellow will be involved in research activities related to plant stress responses, programmed cell death pathways and molecular biology-based studies. The project is focused on understanding how ER stress affects programmed cell death mechanisms in plants and how this process contributes to stress response.
Candidates with a good understanding of plant science, molecular biology and biotechnology-related research areas will find this position suitable. Experience in bioinformatics analysis and molecular biology techniques will be an added advantage.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in research work related to the ANRF-ARG project.
- Support experiments connected with plant stress responses.
- Work on molecular biology-related research activities.
- Assist in data collection, analysis and documentation.
- Support bioinformatics analysis where required.
- Maintain proper research records and project-related documents.
- Work under the guidance of the Principal Investigator.
Required Qualification
Candidates must have M.Sc in any one of the following disciplines:
- Plant Science
- Botany
- Genomics
- Biotechnology
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
In addition, candidates must have CSIR-UGC-NET / GATE qualification.
Required Skills
- Knowledge of plant science and molecular biology concepts.
- Understanding of research methods and laboratory work.
- Ability to maintain scientific records.
- Basic data analysis skills.
- Good communication and documentation skills.
- Bioinformatics analysis knowledge will be preferred.
- Molecular biology technique experience will be preferred.
Experience Required
Experience is not mentioned as mandatory in the notification. However, experience in bioinformatics analysis and molecular biology techniques is desirable and will be given preference.
Salary & Benefits
| Period | Fellowship |
|---|---|
| First 2 Years | Rs. 37,000/- + HRA |
| 3rd Year | Rs. 42,000/- + HRA |
No TA will be paid to candidates for attending the interview.
Age Limit
The upper age limit of the candidate should be below 28 years as on the last date of application. Age relaxation will be given to eligible candidates as per Government of India rules.
Work Location
The work location is the Department of Plant Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, Kerala.
Working Hours
Specific working hours are not mentioned in the notification. The selected candidate will have to follow the research work schedule and project requirements of the department.
Selection Process
- Applications will be screened by the university/project team.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be called for interview.
- Applicants should carry all original certificates at the time of interview or joining.
How to Apply
- Read the official notification carefully.
- Check the eligibility criteria, qualification and age limit.
- Fill and submit the Google Form application link mentioned in the notification.
- Submit the application before 03 July 2026.
- Keep original certificates ready for interview or joining.
Required Documents
- Educational qualification certificates
- CSIR-UGC-NET / GATE qualification proof
- Age proof certificate
- Experience documents, if applicable
- Original certificates for verification at interview or joining
Important Instructions
- The post is purely temporary.
- The initial appointment will be for one year.
- The post may be extended till project completion based on performance assessment.
- Minimum 60% aggregate marks in Master’s degree is required.
- For OBC / ST / SC candidates, minimum 55% aggregate marks is required.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be called for interview.
- No TA will be paid for attending the interview.
- Original certificates must be produced at interview or joining.
Important Dates
| Notification Date | 19 June 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 03 July 2026 |
Important Links
| Details | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Download PDF |
| Apply Online Google Form | Apply Here |
| Official Website | Visit Website |
Company Profile
Central University of Kerala is a central university located in Kasaragod, Kerala. The university offers academic and research programmes through different schools and departments. The Department of Plant Sciences under the School of Biological Sciences carries out teaching and research activities in plant science and related biological areas.
FAQ
What is the post name in Central University of Kerala Recruitment 2026?
The post name is Junior Research Fellow.
How many vacancies are available?
There is one vacancy available.
What is the required qualification?
Candidates need M.Sc in the mentioned science disciplines with CSIR-UGC-NET / GATE qualification.
What is the fellowship amount?
The fellowship is Rs. 37,000 + HRA for the first two years and Rs. 42,000 + HRA for the third year.
What is the last date to apply?
The last date to apply is 03 July 2026.
Is the post permanent?
No, the post is purely temporary and project-based.