Adv. 17/2026:Project Associate-I

RGCB; Thiruvananthapuram; On-site; INR 357,000 - 469,000; Full time

Job summary

RGCB in Thiruvananthapuram invites applications for a Project Associate-I in an ANRF-funded project titled “Identification and FunctionalCharacterization of Novel Short IRES Elements for Effective Circular RNA Translation:An Emerging Platform for Vaccines/Therapeutics.” You will work in the lab of Dr.

Arun Sankaradoss, Scientist C, contributing to virology, RNA work, and basic molecular biology under project constraints.

Qualifications

• First Class Master's Degree in Life Sciences.
• Minimum two years of mammalian cell culture or animal handling experience with virology knowledge.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Virology knowledge

Animal handling

Laboratory techniques

Education

Master’s Degree in Life Sciences

Tools

RNA isolation

Gel electrophoresis

Western blotting

BSL-2 techniques

Job description

Applications are invited from suitable candidates (Indian Citizens) for one position ofProject Associate-I in the ANRF funded project titled,” Identification and FunctionalCharacterization of Novel Short IRES Elements for Effective Circular RNA Translation:An Emerging Platform for Vaccines/Therapeutics" in the laboratory of Dr. Arun Sankaradoss,Scientist C at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram.

EssentialQualifications

• Good academic record with a First Class Master’s Degree in Life Sciences.
• The candidate should have a minimum of two years of documented experience in mammalian cell culture or handling laboratory animals, along with in-depth knowledge of virology.

DesirableQualifications

• The candidate should have qualified National Eligibility Test–CSIR-UGC-NET/LS, GATE, DBT-BET, ICMR, DST-Inspire Fellowship, JEST, or JGEEBILS.
• Experience in experimental virology, including virus culture, titration, in vivo challenge, and pathology.
• Proficiency in basic molecular biology techniques, including RNA isolation, protein gel electrophoresis, and Western blotting.
• Basic experience in microbiological techniques in a BSL-2 laboratory.
• Experience in basic laboratory maintenance, including ordering supplies, inventory management, report preparation, and assisting research staff.

Age

32 years as on 26 th October 2026. Age relaxation will be given as per Govt. of India norms

Emolument

Emoluments will be paid as per the prevailing ANRF guidelines.

Duration

Initially for a period of one year or till termination of the project whichever is earlier and extendable based on the performance evaluation.

Selection Process

• Applications should be submitted online.
• Candidates currently working in Government firms should sendapplications through proper channel.
• Last date for receiving completed applications is 26 th October 2026.
• If a candidate wishes to apply for different positions,separate application forms should be submitted for each position.
• Selection to the position will not entitle the candidate toany future positions at RGCB (permanent or otherwise). As withall project positions at RGCB, the position will be co terminuswith end of the project.
  Applications which are not in the prescribed format will summarily be rejected.
  Only those fulfilling the above criteria need apply. Applicants will be short listed for the online selection interview based on eligibility criteria. Selection of suitable candidates will be made based on qualifications and performance in the selection interview.