Junior Research Fellow at BHU | Life Sciences | Apply Now | Earn Rs. 37,000 + 20% HRA PM
Banaras Hindu University (BHU), a name synonymous with academic prestige in India, is inviting applications for a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position within its Department of Botany. This Biotechnology Opportunity is funded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and focuses on a fascinating biological puzzle: how exactly does a potato plant “know” when to start growing tubers?. Working in the Plant Development and Molecular Biology (PDMB) Lab, the selected candidate will dive deep into the molecular signaling of the mobile protein SP6A to unlock the secrets of crop productivity.
About the Institute
Established in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of the oldest and largest residential universities in Asia and an Institute of Eminence in India. The Institute of Science at BHU is a powerhouse of biological research, known for its rigorous training and state-of-the-art facilities. A BHU Recruitment offer is highly coveted in the Indian scientific community, providing researchers with a rich intellectual heritage and a collaborative environment in the heart of the holy city of Varanasi. Importantly, the university regularly attracts applicants interested in a Junior Research Fellow role within its scientific departments.
Project Details
This project explores the fascinating world of long-distance signaling in plants. The “Tuberigen” signal is the chemical message that travels from the leaves to the underground stolons to trigger potato formation, and these research initiatives often rely on the expertise of a Junior Fellow specializing in molecular biology.
- The Master Switch: The project focuses on SELF-PRUNING 6A (SP6A), a mobile protein generated in the leaves that moves to the roots to initiate tuber growth. Interested candidates for the Junior Fellow position will be essential in advancing this research.
- Molecular Interplay: Researchers will investigate the protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions that occur once SP6A reaches its destination. In many labs like PDMB, the insights from a Junior Research Fellow underpin such discoveries.
- Agricultural Impact: By understanding this pathway, the research aims to improve potato yields and climate resilience, building on groundbreaking studies published in journals like Nature and Plant Physiology.
Role Details & Fellowship: Junior Research Fellow
This is a three-year commitment to cutting-edge plant molecular biology. For this research initiative, the Junior Research Fellow position will require dedication and curiosity.
| Feature | Details |
| Project Code | P-07/1354 |
| Duration | 3 Years (JRF for 2 years, upgradable to SRF for the 3rd year) |
| Stipend (Y1-Y2) | ₹37,000 + 20% HRA per month |
| Stipend (Y3) | ₹42,000 + 20% HRA per month |
| Age Limit | As per ANRF/BHU guidelines |
Eligibility & Desirable Skills
BHU is looking for a candidate who is both academically qualified and technically skilled in the lab, meeting all requirements expected from a Junior Research Fellow on this project.
- Essential Qualification: M.Sc. in Botany, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or Environmental Science with at least 55% marks.
- Mandatory Requirement: Must be NET (including Lectureship) or GATE qualified. For Junior Research Fellow applicants, this is a key eligibility requirement.
- Technical Edge: Experience in plant tissue culture, plant transformation, PCR, and genotyping/phenotyping is highly desirable.
- Analytical Skills: Familiarity with studying molecular interactions (Protein-Protein/DNA) will be a major advantage. The Junior Fellow must demonstrate these analytical skills for successful contribution.
How to Apply?
- Prepare the Package: Fill out the prescribed Annexure-1 and attach all supporting mark sheets/certificates. Each application package for the Junior Research Fellow opening should be carefully prepared.
- Hard Copy: Mail the envelope (superscribed: “Application for the post of JRF for the ANRF-funded project”) to:
- Dr. Jay Prakash Maurya, Assistant Professor, Department of Botany, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221005, UP.
- Digital Copy: Email a single PDF version to [email protected]. When sending your application digitally, make sure to mention your Junior Research Fellow interest clearly.
- Deadline: April 21, 2026, 11:59 PM.
In summary, this Junior Research Fellow position is a definitive Biotechnology Opportunity for those looking to specialize in plant developmental genetics. Securing a BHU Recruitment means you will be working under Dr. Jay Prakash Maurya in the PDMB Lab, contributing to a project of national agricultural importance. Because the role involves advanced molecular biology techniques, your tenure here will serve as an exceptional foundation for a future Ph.D. or an industrial R&D career in seed technology.
CLICK FOR THE ORIGINAL NOTIFICATION
