Research Associate-I

Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology; Thiruvananthapuram; On-site; INR 781,000 - 1,339,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institute is inviting applications for the position of Associate-I in development of serum free growth media. The role requires a PhD in Life Sciences with demonstrable experience in stem cell biology and embryo handling. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria and apply online by February 07, 2026. This position is initially for four months and is contingent on project continuation based on performance evaluations.

Qualifications

• PhD in Life Sciences with experience in Mammalian Embryo isolation and culture.
• Certified experience in stem cell differentiation and embryo handling.
• Desirable experience in teratoma generation and muscle stem cell differentiation.

Skills

Mammalian Embryo isolation

Derivation and culture of embryonic stem cells

Stem cell biology

Differentiation strategies of embryonic stem cells

Embryo handling

Education

PhD in Life sciences

PhD in stem cell biology

Job description

Applications are invited from suitable candidates (Indian Citizens) for one position of < Associate-I in the DBT-BIRAC Proposals on ‘Smart Proteins’ for Fostering High Performance Biomanufacturing under the BioE3 Policy, entitled "Formulation of serum free growth media for the derivation and differentiation of bovine embryonic stemcells to muscle stem cells: a sustainable plant-based indigenous alternative for the production of cultured meat" in the Laboratory of Dr. Debasree Dutta at Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.

Essential Qualifications

• PhD in Life sciences. Mammalian Embryo isolation, derivation and culture of embryonic stem cells. Proved/certified (thesis) experience in stem cell biology, differentiation strategies of embryonic stem cells and embryo handling.

Desirable Qualifications

• PhD in stem cell biology, with thorough evident experience in embryo isolation, derivation of embryonic stem cells from embryo, teratoma generation, and muscle stem cell differentiation and other molecular biology associated experiences.

Age

35 years as on 07 th February 2026. Age relaxation will be given as per Govt. of India norms

Duration

Initially for a period of four months 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 send applications through proper channel.
• Last date for receiving completed applications is February07, 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 to any future positions at RGCB (permanent or otherwise). As with all project positions at RGCB, the position will be co terminus with 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.