Welcome to the comprehensive job description for the Research Associate I position at the National Institute of Immunology (NII). This document provides a detailed overview of the recruitment process, eligibility criteria, salary structure, application procedure, important dates, and other pertinent information to assist prospective candidates in preparing their applications effectively. Whether you are an experienced researcher or a PhD graduate seeking a challenging opportunity, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about this position.
NII Research Associate-I 2026 – Complete Job Details
Organization Overview
The National Institute of Immunology (NII) is a premier research institute dedicated to advancing knowledge in the fields of immunology, biological sciences, and chemical sciences. The institute regularly announces vacancies for research positions to promote scientific inquiry and innovation. The current recruitment is for a Research Associate I post, funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), focusing on structural and dynamic studies of SARS-CoV-2 proteins.
Position Summary
The Research Associate I position is a temporary, project-based role, designed to support cutting-edge research related to COVID-19 and viral protein studies. The position is tenable till 18th September 2026, aligned with the duration of the funded project.
Vacancy Details
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | National Institute of Immunology (NII) |
| Post Name | Research Associate I |
| Total Vacancies | 1 |
| Salary/Pay Scale | Rs. 58,000/- per month + 27% HRA as per DST guidelines |
| Applicable Project | Structural and Dynamic studies of SARS-CoV-2 proteins |
| Duration of Post | Till 18.09.2026, co-terminus with the project |
| Application End Date | 06th February 2026 |
| Official Website | nii.res.in |
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Educational Qualifications
Candidates must possess a PhD degree in Biological Sciences or Chemical Sciences from a recognized university or institute. The candidate should have at least one research publication in a standard refereed journal as per Journal Citation Reports (JCR).
Desirable Experience
Practical hands-on experience in one or more of the following areas will be considered advantageous:
- Molecular biology techniques
- Cell biology, including bacterial and mammalian cell culture
- Protein biochemistry
- Structural biology
- Animal handling and management
Age Limit
The age limit for applicants is generally as per institute norms and government guidelines, with relaxations applicable for Reserved Category candidates. Specific age criteria are not explicitly mentioned in the notification; candidates are advised to check for updates on the official website.
Selection Process
The selection process involves the following steps:
- Shortlisting of Applications: Candidates will be shortlisted based on their eligibility, academic qualifications, research experience, and publications.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview, which can be conducted either in offline or online mode. Participants should attend with all original certificates and documents for verification.
Note: No TA/DA will be paid for attending the interview. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified about the interview schedule.
Application Fee and Payment Details
| Category | Fee | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| General/OBC/Other Candidates | Rs. 100/- | Paid via Demand Draft (DD) drawn on Canara Bank or Indian Bank payable at Delhi in favor of Director, NII. Alternatively, fee can be paid through UPI/Paytm/PhonePe to the specified bank account. |
| Women & SC/ST/PH Candidates | Exempted | Subject to submission of appropriate documentary proof at the time of application/interview. |
Bank details for payment:
- Beneficiary Name: Director, NII
- Account Number: 1484101001636
- IFSC Code: CNRB0001484
How to Apply
Interested candidates should follow the steps below to submit their applications:
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Prepare Application: Download and fill the prescribed application form available in the official notification.
- Compile Documents: Prepare a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing research expertise, publications, and contact information. Include the names and contact details of three referees.
- Mention Project Name: Clearly specify the project name: “Structural and Dynamic studies of SARS-CoV-2 proteins” in the application.
- Email Submission: Send the completed application form, CV, and referee details via email to the Project Investigator at the provided email ID in the notification ([email protected]).
- At the Interview: Attendees must bring attested copies of all relevant certificates and documents.
- Pay Application Fee: If applicable, pay the fees through Demand Draft or digital payment methods as per instructions.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date for Application Submission | 06/02/2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 06/02/2026 |
| Interview Date | To be notified to shortlisted candidates |
Additional Instructions and Notes
- The position is purely temporary and will end with the completion of the project.
- No accommodation or hostel facilities will be provided by NII.
- Applicants must clearly specify their category (SC/ST/OBC/PH) and attach authentic proof for validation.
- Incomplete applications or those with false information will be rejected.
- Application forms containing incorrect or missing information, including examination details, will not be considered.
- Canvassing of any kind will lead to disqualification.
- Interviews will be conducted either physically or virtually, as indicated.
Salary and Emoluments
The selected candidate will receive a consolidated monthly stipend as per institute rules, which includes:
- Gross Salary: Rs. 58,000/-
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): 27% of basic salary (as per DST guidelines)
The total emolument will be adjusted as per applicable rules and qualifications of the candidate.
Official Links
For further details, download the official notification and access the online application form through the following links:
This comprehensive guide aims to assist you in understanding the full scope of the NII Research Associate I recruitment process and how to prepare your application accordingly. Best of luck with your application!