ICAR-CIFE Recruitment 2026: 01 YP-II Post, Apply by May 16

The ICAR – Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE), a Deemed University under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, has released an official notification for the recruitment of Young Professional-II (YP-II) positions. This is a contractual opportunity under the Maharashtra Gene Bank Project. Interested and eligible candidates are invited to apply via email for this single vacancy before the deadline of May 16, 2026. The selection process will involve a hybrid mode interview scheduled for May 18, 2026.

Quick Overview

Vacancy Details

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

• Master’s degree in Fisheries Science with specialization in Fish Biotechnology / Fisheries Resources Management. OR
• M.Sc in Life /Plant Sciences with specialization in Biotechnology.
• Essential Requirement: First Division or 60% marks or equivalent overall grade point average in Master’s degree.
• Certificate Requirement: Application with a Final Degree Certificate or a Provisional Degree Certificate will only be considered.

Age Limit

Desirable Qualification

• Technical knowledge on DNA Barcoding/Molecular Markers.

Application Fee

The official notification does not mention any application fee for this recruitment. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification carefully or contact the concerned authority for clarification if needed.

Important Dates

Selection Process

1. Application Scrutiny: Candidates who fulfill all eligibility conditions will be invited for the interview.
2. Interview: The selection will be based on academic performance, research experience, and performance during the online interview.
3. Final Decision: The decision of the Director, ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai, will be final and binding.

How to Apply

Interested and eligible candidates must submit their application via email by the specified deadline. Follow these steps:

1. Download Application Form: The application format is included in the official PDF notification (pages 3-4). Download and print it.
2. Fill Details: Carefully fill in all required details in the application form using block letters.
3. Attach Photo: Affix your recent passport-size photograph in the designated space.
4. Prepare Documents: Gather self-attested copies of all necessary documents, including:
   • Educational qualification certificates (from 10th standard onwards, including Master’s degree with division/percentage).
   • Age proof.
   • Caste certificate (if claiming age relaxation).
   • Experience certificates (if any).
   • Provisional or Final Degree Certificate for Master’s.
   • Any other relevant documents.
5. Email Application: Scan the completely filled application form along with all self-attested copies of documents.
6. Send Email: Submit your application to the email address: pavankumar@cife.edu.in.
7. Deadline: Ensure your application email reaches before or on May 16, 2026.
8. Interview Attendance: Invited candidates for the online interview are requested to be present 10 minutes before the scheduled time on May 18, 2026.

Important Links

Job Profile & Career Scope

As a Young Professional-II (YP-II) at ICAR-CIFE, you will primarily be involved in research activities under the ‘Maharashtra Gene Bank Project’. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge research related to ‘Characterization of Seaweed Diversity, Nutritional Benefits, and Conservation Strategies along the Maharashtra Coast’.

• Key Responsibilities: Your duties will likely include data collection, laboratory experiments (especially related to DNA Barcoding/Molecular Markers), data analysis, report writing, and assisting senior scientists in project implementation.
• Skill Development: This position will enhance your research skills, particularly in Fish Biotechnology, Fisheries Resources Management, and Biotechnology, along with project management exposure.
• Career Growth: While contractual, such positions are valuable stepping stones for pursuing higher studies (Ph.D.), securing permanent research positions in ICAR institutes, or joining other research organizations and universities. It provides a strong foundation for a career in fisheries and marine science research.

Preparation Tips for Interview

Given the interview-based selection, thorough preparation is key. Focus on the following:

• Subject Matter Expertise: Revise your Master’s degree subjects, especially Fish Biotechnology, Fisheries Resources Management, and Biotechnology. Be prepared to discuss concepts related to seaweed diversity, nutrition, and conservation strategies.
• Project Understanding: Familiarize yourself with the ‘Maharashtra Gene Bank Project’. Research similar projects or concepts if possible.
• Desirable Skills: If you have knowledge of DNA Barcoding/Molecular Markers, be ready to elaborate on your experience and understanding in this area.
• Academic & Research Experience: Be prepared to discuss your academic performance, any research projects undertaken during your Master’s, and your research interests. Highlight any publications or thesis work.
• Communication Skills: Practice clear and concise communication. Be confident in expressing your ideas and answering questions. For an online interview, ensure a stable internet connection and a quiet environment.
• Documents: Keep all your original certificates and their self-attested copies ready for verification, even for an online interview, as they might be asked to be shown or submitted virtually.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the nature of the Young Professional-II (YP-II) position?

The position is purely temporary and contractual for a period of three years from the date of appointment, under the Maharashtra Gene Bank Project.

Q2: Can candidates from other states apply for this recruitment?

Yes, candidates from across India can apply, provided they meet the essential eligibility criteria. The place of work will be at ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai.

Q3: Is there an application fee for the ICAR-CIFE YP-II recruitment?

No, the official notification does not mention any application fee for this position.

Q4: What documents should be sent with the application email?

You should send the completely filled application form (from the PDF) along with scanned self-attested copies of all your educational qualification certificates, age proof, caste certificate (if applicable), and your Master’s degree (final or provisional) certificate.

Q5: What is a Hybrid Mode Interview?

A hybrid mode interview generally means candidates might have the option to attend either physically at the specified venue (ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai) or virtually online. The notification specifies that invited candidates should be present 10 minutes before the scheduled time for the *online* interview, implying the interview itself will be conducted online, but the venue is available. It’s best to confirm with the institute if you intend to attend physically.

Q6: Are age relaxations applicable for this post?

Yes, age relaxations are applicable as per Government of India (GOI) norms for eligible categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwD). Candidates claiming relaxation must send the relevant certificates along with their application documents.

Q7: When will the list of invited candidates for the interview be released?

The notification states that only candidates who fulfill all eligibility conditions will be invited to appear for the online interview. Candidates should regularly check the official website (www.cife.edu.in) or their email for updates regarding interview invitations.