PSA to GoI Recruitment 2026: Scientist ‘G’ Post, Apply by May 12/26

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India (O/o PSA to GoI) has released a Vacancy Circular for the recruitment of one (01) Scientist ‘G’ post on a deputation basis. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced scientists and technologists to contribute to the nation’s scientific landscape. The application deadline for this prestigious position has been extended, with different dates for general and remote areas. Interested and eligible candidates must apply through the proper channel by the revised last dates of May 12, 2026, and May 26, 2026, respectively.

Quick Overview

Vacancy Details

The recruitment is for a single, highly specialized position within the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

• Master’s Degree: In Physical or Chemical or Biological or Earth-atmospheric or Environmental or Mathematical or Computational and Information or Agricultural Sciences from a recognised University or Institute; OR
• Bachelor’s Degree: In Engineering or Technology or Biotechnology or Medicine or Veterinary Sciences or Pharmaceutical Sciences (minimum 4-year degree course) from a recognised University or Institute.

Age Limit

The maximum age-limit for appointment by deputation (including short-term contract) shall not exceed fifty-eight years as on the closing date of receipt of applications.

Experience

Candidates must possess twenty-one years of experience in science and technology organisations or research and development in industrial and academic institutions or both, out of which at least seven years should be in one or more of the following:

• Administering, planning, development or coordination of Science and Technology programmes;
• Evolving, managing and directing major programmes under any branch of Science and Technology;
• Proven record of policy initiatives for the Science and Technology Sector;
• Proven record of leading a team.

Note: The period spent on obtaining minimum essential educational qualification or Doctorate Degree shall not count towards experience, subject to specific conditions mentioned in the official notification.

Desirable Qualifications

• Post Doctorate research in Physical or Chemical or Biological or Earth-atmospheric or Environmental or Mathematical or Computational and Information or Agricultural Sciences OR
• Doctorate Degree in Engineering or Technology or Biotechnology or Medicine or Veterinary Sciences or Pharmaceutical Sciences Medicine from a recognised University or Institute.

Grades from which Deputation to be Made

Scientists or Technologists of the Central Government or State Governments or Union Territories or Central Government or State Government Undertakings or University or Recognised Research Institution or statutory or autonomous organization, who are:

• Holding analogous posts on a regular basis; OR
• With five years’ service in the grade rendered after appointment to the post on a regular basis in the Level-13A in the pay matrix (Rs.131100-216600/-) or equivalent; AND
• Possessing the essential and desirable qualifications as prescribed above.

The period of deputation (including short-term contract) shall ordinarily not exceed five years.

Application Fee

Application fee details are not specified in the official notification.

Important Dates

*Remote Areas include Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Sikkim, Ladakh, Lahaul and Spiti District and Pangi Sub Division of Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Scientist ‘G’ post will involve the following stages:

1. Scrutiny of Applications: All received applications will be scrutinized by an Eligibility/Screening Committee.
2. Shortlisting: Candidates found eligible and suitable will be shortlisted based on a well-defined criterion, which may include desirable qualifications and/or experience beyond the minimum prescribed, especially if a large number of applications are received.
3. Personal Interaction: Shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interaction (interview) with the Selection Committee.
4. Final Selection: Selection will be made based on the performance in the personal interaction. A panel of selected candidates will be prepared, valid for one year from the date of interview, to fill the current vacancy and any subsequent vacancies.

How to Apply

Candidates must apply through the proper channel, ensuring all requirements are met by the deadline. Follow these steps:

1. Obtain Application Form: The application should be neatly typed on thick plain paper (A-4 size 210 x 297 mm) in the prescribed format given in Annexure-II of the official circular.
2. Fill Details Accurately: Complete all sections of the application form with correct and complete information.
3. Attach Documents: Enclose self-attested copies of the following documents:
   • Annual Performance Appraisal Reports (APARs) for the last five years.
   • Certificate stating no vigilance or disciplinary case is pending or contemplated.
   • Certificate detailing any major/minor penalties imposed in the last 10 years.
   • Integrity certificate duly signed by the Competent Authority.
   • Cadre clearance (by name to Shri Vikas Srivastava, Director (Admn.)).
   • Certificates in support of educational qualifications (from matriculation onwards).
   • Date of birth certificate.
   • Disability certificate (if applicable).
   • Community certificate (for SC/ST/OBC candidates only).
   • Experience certificates supporting the claimed experience after essential qualification.
4. Through Proper Channel: Applications must be forwarded through the candidate’s parent Department/Organisation with a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the competent authority.
5. Ensure Timely Receipt: It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure their application, duly forwarded by their competent authority, reaches the O/o PSA within the prescribed time limit. Applications received after the last date will not be considered.
6. Super-scribe Envelope: The cover containing the application and documents must be super-scribed with “APPLICATION FOR POST OF SCIENTIST ‘G'”.
7. Send Application: Dispatch the completed application along with all required documents by Registered Post or Speed Post to the following address:
   Shri Vikas Srivastava, Director (Admn.), 33010, Kartavya Bhavan-3, Janpath, New Delhi-110001.
8. Hand Delivery: Candidates wishing to deliver their applications by hand can do so at Section Officer (Admn.), Room No. 33020, O/o PSA to GoI, Kartavya Bhavan-3, Janpath, New Delhi-110001, by obtaining a duly signed receipt.

Required Documents

Candidates must ensure they submit all necessary documents along with their application. Failure to do so may lead to rejection. All copies should be self-attested, and originals must be produced during document verification.

• Self-attested copies of Annual Performance Appraisal Reports (APARs) for the last five years.
• Vigilance Clearance Certificate.
• Integrity Certificate.
• Details of major/minor penalties imposed (if any) during the last 10 years.
• Cadre Clearance Certificate (by name to Shri Vikas Srivastava, Director (Admn.)).
• Educational Qualification Certificates (Mark sheets and Degrees/Diplomas from Matriculation onwards).
• Date of Birth Proof (e.g., Matriculation Certificate).
• Experience Certificates (clearly indicating period and nature of duties).
• Caste Certificate (SC/ST/OBC) as per Government of India format (if applicable).
• Disability Certificate (PwD) as per Government of India format (if applicable).
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the present employer, confirming forwarding through proper channel.
• Recent passport-size colored photograph (affixed on the application form, not more than three months old).

Important Links

Note: The direct link to the PDF is not provided as per instructions, but candidates should look for the Vacancy Circular No. A-12011/2/2023-Admn. on the official website.

Job Profile & Career Scope

A Scientist ‘G’ in the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India is a high-level scientific and administrative position. The role typically involves providing expert advice on science, technology, and innovation policies to the Prime Minister and the Cabinet. Key responsibilities include:

• Formulating and implementing national science and technology policies.
• Coordinating scientific programs across various ministries and departments.
• Driving strategic initiatives in emerging technologies and scientific research.
• Representing India in international scientific forums.
• Mentoring junior scientists and fostering a culture of innovation.

Career growth for such a position is often lateral or upwards within the scientific advisory or policy-making framework of the government. Given the deputation nature, it offers exposure to high-level policy formulation and significant national impact, enhancing the professional profile of the selected candidate.

Preparation Tips for Deputation Applications

Applying for a deputation post requires a specific approach, focusing on your current service record and how your experience aligns with the new role. Here are some tips:

• Thoroughly Review Requirements: Pay close attention to the essential and desirable qualifications, especially the specific experience requirements for Scientist ‘G’. Highlight how your career trajectory matches these.
• Strong Performance Records: Ensure your Annual Performance Appraisal Reports (APARs) are outstanding for the past five years. These are crucial for deputation.
• Vigilance & Integrity: Make sure you have a clean service record with no vigilance cases or penalties. This is a non-negotiable requirement.
• Cadre Clearance: Initiate the cadre clearance process well in advance, as it involves coordination within your current department.
• Customise Your Application: While using the prescribed format, ensure your experience details (research work, specialization) are clearly articulated to demonstrate your suitability for the Scientist ‘G’ role. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Proofread Meticulously: Any errors or incomplete information can lead to rejection, especially for high-level posts.
• Follow Proper Channel Strictly: Do not bypass your current department. Ensure your application is forwarded with the necessary NOC and reaches the O/o PSA within the stipulated deadline. Track its movement within your organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the last date to apply for the PSA to GoI Scientist ‘G’ recruitment 2026?

The extended last date to apply is May 12, 2026, for general areas, and May 26, 2026, for candidates from specific remote areas (Assam, Meghalaya, etc.).

Q2: How many vacancies are there for the Scientist ‘G’ post?

There is one (01) vacancy for the Scientist ‘G’ post.

Q3: What is the mode of application?

Applications must be submitted offline, through the proper channel (via your current employer), by Registered Post/Speed Post or by hand delivery.

Q4: Is there an application fee for this recruitment?

The official notification does not mention any application fee for this deputation post.

Q5: What is the age limit for applying to the Scientist ‘G’ position?

The maximum age limit for appointment by deputation is 58 years as of the closing date of application.

Q6: What is the selection process for Scientist ‘G’?

The selection process involves scrutiny of applications by an Eligibility/Screening Committee, shortlisting of candidates, and a personal interaction (interview) with the Selection Committee.

Q7: Can candidates from State Governments apply for this Central Government post?

Yes, the notification explicitly states that Scientists or Technologists from Central Government, State Governments, Union Territories, Central/State Government Undertakings, Universities, or Recognised Research Institutions are eligible for deputation.

Q8: What documents are essential for the application?

Key documents include APARs for the last five years, vigilance and integrity certificates, cadre clearance, educational and experience certificates, and a No Objection Certificate from your current employer.

Q9: Where can I find the application form?

The application form (Annexure-II) is part of the official Vacancy Circular, which can be downloaded from the official website of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (psa.gov.in).

Q10: What is the duration of the deputation?

The period of deputation, including short-term contract, shall ordinarily not exceed five years.