Project Assistant Job at MACS-ARI
Are you searching for a promising Project Assistant Job in biotechnology or microbiology research? Here’s an exciting opportunity from MACS – Agharkar Research Institute Careers for candidates passionate about environmental biotechnology and sustainable agriculture. The Nanobioscience Group at MACS-ARI, Pune, is recruiting Project Assistants for a prestigious government-funded research project focused on reducing methane emissions in rice cultivation. This Biotech & Microbiology Job offers hands-on research exposure and serves as an excellent opportunity for life science graduates looking to build a career in scientific research.
About MACS – Agharkar Research Institute
MACS – Agharkar Research Institute (ARI), Pune, is an autonomous research institution under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. The institute is recognized for its contributions to biological sciences, microbiology, biotechnology, biodiversity, nanobioscience, agriculture, and environmental research.
Through innovative research programs and interdisciplinary collaborations, ARI addresses important scientific and societal challenges. MACS – Agharkar Research Institute Careers provide researchers and young professionals opportunities to participate in impactful projects that contribute to sustainable development and scientific advancement.
Job Details:
- Job Title: Project Assistant
- Organization: MACS – Agharkar Research Institute (ARI)
- Department: Nanobioscience Group
- Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Position Type: Temporary / Contractual
- Number of Vacancies: 02
- Post Code: RGSTC-06-2026-27-PA
Project Details
| Project Title | Formulation of Multi-Purpose Consortia Bioinoculants (with NFB, MOB and PGPR) to Reduce Methane Emissions and Decrease Reliance on Nitrogen Fertilizers in Rice Cultivation |
| Funding Agency | Rajiv Gandhi Science and Technology Commission (RGSTC) |
| Project Duration | Up to 04 May 2029 |
| Group | Nanobioscience Group |
| Principal Investigator (PI) | Dr. Monali Rahalkar, Scientist E |
| Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) | Mr. Pranav Kshirsagar, Scientist E |
Position Overview
The Project Assistant will support research activities under a project focused on developing microbial bioinoculant consortia to improve sustainable rice cultivation practices, reduce methane emissions, and decrease dependency on chemical nitrogen fertilizers.
The role involves laboratory and field-based microbiology and biotechnology research, including microbial cultivation, experimental setup, data collection, and field evaluations.
Eligibility Criteria
| Essential Qualification | Bachelor’s Degree (First Class) in Microbiology or Biotechnology from a recognized University/Institution. |
| Desirable Qualification | M.Sc. in Microbiology or Biotechnology. |
| Preferred Experience | Knowledge and/or experience in:
|
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in laboratory and field-based microbiology and biotechnology research.
- Support isolation, cultivation, and characterization of microbial cultures.
- Conduct pot and field experiments related to bioinoculant development.
- Participate in methane emission studies and agricultural biotechnology research.
- Maintain experimental records and assist in data collection and analysis.
- Support project documentation, reporting, and routine laboratory activities.
Compensation
| Monthly Stipend | ₹20,000 |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | As applicable |
| Total Benefits | Consolidated stipend plus HRA |
Age Limit
| General Category | 50 Years |
Age Relaxation: Applicable for OBC, SC, ST, PwD, and other eligible categories as per Government of India rules.
Important Dates
| Last Date for Online Application | 30 June 2026 |
| Display of Shortlisted Candidates | To be notified on the Institute Website |
| Offline Interview Date | 08 July 2026 |
| Interview Time | 10:30 AM onwards |
Application Process
Interested and eligible candidates must submit their applications online through the prescribed portal along with supporting documents.
Documents Required
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Educational certificates and mark sheets
- Experience certificates (if applicable)
- Caste certificate (for reserved category candidates)
- Online fee payment receipt (if applicable)
Application Fee
| General/OBC/EWS | ₹100 |
| SC/ST/PwD/Women Candidates | Exempted |
The application fee must be paid online through the designated SBI Collect portal. Candidates should upload the payment receipt and mention the transaction/reference number in the application form.
Selection Process
- Applications will be screened based on eligibility and project requirements.
- Shortlisting may be conducted if a large number of applications are received.
- Preference may be given to candidates possessing desirable qualifications and relevant experience.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for the offline interview.
Terms and Conditions
- The position is purely temporary and contractual.
- Selection under this project does not confer any right to permanent employment in ARI or the funding agency.
- Selected candidates may be assigned to other institutional projects based on organizational requirements.
- Desirable qualifications may be relaxed in exceptional cases at the discretion of the competent authority.
- No Travel Allowance (TA) or Dearness Allowance (DA) will be provided for attending the interview.
- Candidates may choose to appear for the interview in either English or Hindi.
Important Note
The prescribed qualifications are minimum requirements. Mere fulfillment of eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection or an interview call. The Institute reserves the right to shortlist candidates based on academic qualifications, research experience, and project-specific requirements.
CLICK HERE FOR OFFICAL NOTIFICATION
