CSIR-CECRI Recruitment 2026: 3 Project Posts, Apply by March 3

CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CSIR-CECRI), a premier institute under the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), has released an official notification (No. PS – 01/2026) for the engagement of project personnel on a temporary basis. This is an excellent opportunity for eligible candidates to join CSIR-CECRI Chennai Unit as Senior Project Associate and Project Assistant – II. A total of 3 vacancies are announced for various projects. Interested candidates must apply online by March 3, 2026, and prepare for a walk-in-interview scheduled for March 6, 2026.

Quick Overview

Vacancy Details

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

• Senior Project Associate (P01 – Chemical Engineering): B.Tech. in Chemical Engineering or equivalent with 3 years R&D Experience. OR M.Tech. in Chemical Engineering with 2 years R&D Experience.
• Senior Project Associate (P01 – Physical / Chemical Sciences): Ph.D. in Physical / Chemical Sciences with 2 years R&D Experience.
• Project Assistant- II (P02): B.Sc. in Chemistry.
• Note: Final Semester/Year students awaiting results are not eligible. Candidates with CGPA/SGPA/OGPA must convert it to percentage as per their University/Institute formula.

Age Limit (as on date of interview)

Experience

• Senior Project Associate (P01 – Chemical Engineering): 3 years R&D Experience for B.Tech. OR 2 years R&D Experience for M.Tech.
• Senior Project Associate (P01 – Physical / Chemical Sciences): 2 years R&D Experience for Ph.D.
• Project Assistant- II (P02): Not specified, but B.Sc. in Chemistry is required.
• Desirable qualifications are mentioned in the official notification for specific posts.

Application Fee

Application fee details are not mentioned in the official notification. Candidates are advised to refer to the application portal on the official website for any fee-related information during the application process.

Important Dates

Selection Process

1. Online Application: Eligible candidates must apply online by the stipulated deadline.
2. Shortlisting: In case a large number of applications are received, candidates will be shortlisted for the interview based on criteria fixed by the Selection Committee.
3. Hybrid Mode Interview: The interview will be conducted in a Hybrid mode (offline and online). Eligible candidates will receive an email with the online interview link and time slot by 05.03.2026.
4. Final Decision: The Director, CSIR-CECRI, Karaikudi, holds the final decision regarding suitability and selection.

How to Apply

Candidates must follow these steps to apply for the CSIR-CECRI Project Personnel positions:

1. Visit the official CSIR-CECRI website: https://www.cecri.res.in/
2. Navigate to the ‘Recruitment’ or ‘Notifications’ section to find the link for Notification No. PS – 01/2026.
3. Click on the online application link provided.
4. Fill out the application form with all the required personal, educational, and experience details accurately.
5. Upload necessary attachments, including certificates in support of date of birth, caste, educational qualifications, and experience. Ensure all documents are clear and as per specified formats.
6. Review the application form thoroughly before final submission.
7. Submit the online application on or before March 3, 2026, by 05:00 PM. No other mode of application will be accepted.
8. Keep a printout of the submitted application form for future reference.

Important Links

Job Profile & Career Scope

Project personnel at CSIR-CECRI work on cutting-edge research and development projects. As a Senior Project Associate or Project Assistant-II, you will be actively involved in research activities, experimental work, data analysis, and report preparation. These roles offer valuable experience in a prestigious government research institution.

• Senior Project Associate: Typically involves leading specific modules of a research project, guiding junior researchers, designing experiments, and contributing significantly to project outcomes. Career growth can lead to higher research positions or specialized roles in industry.
• Project Assistant-II: Focuses on supporting research activities, conducting experiments, maintaining lab equipment, and assisting senior researchers. This role is an excellent stepping stone for a career in scientific research and can lead to opportunities for higher studies or permanent research positions with further experience and qualifications.

Working at CSIR-CECRI provides exposure to advanced research methodologies, state-of-the-art facilities, and a collaborative environment, making it a strong foundation for a career in scientific and industrial research.

Preparation Tips

For the Interview

• Review Core Concepts: Thoroughly revise the fundamental concepts of your respective engineering or science discipline (Chemical Engineering, Physical/Chemical Sciences, Chemistry).
• Project Specific Knowledge: For Senior Project Associate roles, familiarize yourself with the desirable knowledge areas mentioned, such as PEM fuel cell technology, thermal management, electrode engineering, materials modelling, etc.
• Research CSIR-CECRI: Understand the ongoing research areas and projects at CSIR-CECRI to align your answers with their mission.
• Prepare for Hybrid Mode: If appearing online, ensure a stable internet connection, a quiet environment, and a working webcam/microphone. Practice answering questions concisely.
• Highlight Experience: Be ready to discuss your past R&D experience in detail, emphasizing your contributions and learnings.

Document Preparation for Interview

• Carry all original certificates for date of birth, caste, educational qualifications (mark sheets and degrees), and experience certificates.
• Have self-attested photocopies of all documents ready.
• Bring a valid photo ID proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Driving License, Passport).
• Keep a few recent passport-sized photographs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is there an application fee for these posts?

A1: The official notification does not mention any application fee. Candidates should check the online application portal for any updates regarding fees.

Q2: Can candidates from other states apply?

A2: Yes, Indian citizens from any state are generally eligible to apply for CSIR-CECRI positions, provided they meet the specified eligibility criteria.

Q3: What if I have a CGPA instead of a percentage?

A3: As per the notification, candidates with CGPA/SGPA/OGPA grades must convert them into percentages as per their University/Institute’s formula and be prepared to provide documented proof of the conversion factor.

Q4: What is the nature of the engagement?

A4: The engagement is purely on a temporary basis, co-terminus with the project tenure. It does not confer any right or claim for extension or absorption in CSIR-CECRI.

Q5: Can I apply if I have completed 6 years as Project Staff in CSIR?

A5: No, applicants who have completed a total tenure of 6 years as Project Staff in any CSIR Lab/Institute are NOT ELIGIBLE to apply for these positions.

Q6: Will there be a written exam before the interview?

A6: The notification primarily mentions a ‘walk-in-interview’. However, if a large number of candidates apply, a shortlisting process will be conducted based on criteria fixed by the Selection Committee, which might involve a screening test or higher eligibility cut-off, though not explicitly stated as a separate exam.

Q7: How will I receive the link for the online interview?

A7: Eligible candidates selected for the interview will receive the link for the online interview along with their time slot via email by March 5, 2026.

Q8: What documents should I carry for the interview?

A8: You must carry all original certificates pertaining to your date of birth, caste, educational qualifications, and experience, along with self-attested photocopies and a valid photo ID proof.