MACS-Agharkar Research Institute (ARI), Pune, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, has invited online applications for the temporary position of Junior Research Fellow (JRF) in the Genetics and Plant Breeding Group.
The position is under a Department of Biotechnology (DBT), New Delhi funded research project titled “Breeding Elite Indian Wheat with Durable Fusarium Head Blight Resistance Using Marker-Assisted Backcrossing”. Eligible candidates with the required postgraduate qualification and national-level eligibility qualification can apply online.
ARI JRF Recruitment 2026 – Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | MACS-Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) |
| Department | Department of Science & Technology, Government of India |
| Post Name | Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
| Total Vacancy | 01 |
| Post Code | SP-394-JRF-2026-27 |
| Research Group | Genetics and Plant Breeding Group |
| Funding Agency | Department of Biotechnology (DBT), New Delhi |
| Project | Breeding Elite Indian Wheat with Durable Fusarium Head Blight Resistance Using Marker-Assisted Backcrossing |
| Project Code | SP-394 |
| Project Period | Up to 26 August 2029 |
| Monthly Stipend | Rs. 37,000 + HRA |
| Maximum Age | 35 years |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Last Date | 01 October 2026 |
| Interview Mode | Online Interview |
| Institute Location | Pune, Maharashtra |
ARI Junior Research Fellow Vacancy 2026
There is 1 vacancy for the position of Junior Research Fellow in the Genetics and Plant Breeding Group at MACS-Agharkar Research Institute, Pune.
The selected candidate will work on the DBT-funded wheat research project focused on developing elite Indian wheat with durable resistance to Fusarium Head Blight using marker-assisted backcrossing.
ARI JRF Salary
The selected Junior Research Fellow will receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 37,000 plus HRA, as specified in the recruitment notification.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must fulfil the prescribed essential educational qualification. Eligible academic backgrounds include:
- Master’s Degree in Agriculture with specialization in Genetics & Plant Breeding, Agricultural Biotechnology or Plant Biotechnology, with a four-year Bachelor’s degree.
- Master’s Degree in Biotechnology or Botany with a three-year Bachelor’s degree.
The Master’s degree must be in First Class.
National Eligibility Test Requirement
The applicant must have qualified a relevant national-level eligibility examination. The notification includes NET conducted by ICAR, CSIR or UGC, including lectureship/Assistant Professorship, GATE, or other national-level examinations conducted by Central Government departments and their agencies or institutions.
The notification specifically mentions examinations conducted by organizations and institutions such as DST, DBT, DAE, DOS, DRDO, MHRD, ICAR, ICMR, IITs, IISc and IISERs.
Desirable Qualifications and Skills
The following experience and skills are desirable for the JRF position:
- Research experience in plant pathology.
- Research experience in plant breeding, particularly wheat breeding.
- Knowledge of molecular biology.
- Experience with field layout.
- Computer skills.
- Statistical analysis skills.
- Scientific writing skills.
Age Limit
The maximum age limit is 35 years. The age will be considered as specified in the notification, with relaxation applicable to eligible OBC, SC, ST and other categories according to Government of India rules.
Research Project Details
The JRF will be associated with the project “Breeding Elite Indian Wheat with Durable Fusarium Head Blight Resistance Using Marker-Assisted Backcrossing.”
The project is funded by the Department of Biotechnology, New Delhi, and has a project period extending up to 26 August 2029.
The Principal Investigator is Dr. Sudhir Navathe, Scientist D, while Dr. Yashavantha Kumar KJ, Scientist D, is listed as the Co-Principal Investigator.
How to Apply for ARI JRF Recruitment 2026
- Visit the ARI online application portal.
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal and educational details.
- Upload self-attested scanned certificates supporting the essential qualification.
- Upload a recent passport-size photograph.
- Upload the caste certificate issued by the competent authority, wherever applicable.
- Upload the receipt of online fee payment, if applicable.
- Submit the completed application before the closing date.
Online Application Portal: arijob.ourlib.in
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Advertisement | 2026-27 |
| Last Date for Application | 01 October 2026 |
| Shortlist Display | Will be displayed on the Institute website |
| Online Interview | Will be displayed on the Institute website |
Selection Process
The recruitment process will involve shortlisting of eligible applicants followed by an online interview. The date and time of the online interview will be displayed on the official institute website.
No TA will be admissible for the interview. The selected candidate will have no right to appointment against any regular ARI post or any post funded by the funding agency.
Important Instructions
- The position is temporary and project-based.
- Candidates must fulfil all essential qualifications before applying.
- Applicants must submit the required supporting documents with the online application.
- Reserved-category candidates should provide a valid caste certificate issued by the competent authority.
- The shortlisted candidates and online interview details will be published on the Institute website.
- Applicants should regularly check the official ARI website for updates.
Important Links
| Particular | Link |
|---|---|
| Online Application | Apply Online |
| Official ARI Website | MACS-Agharkar Research Institute |
| Full Notification | Link to be added |
Full Notification Link in Comment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many JRF vacancies are available at ARI Pune?
There is one vacancy for the Junior Research Fellow position in the Genetics and Plant Breeding Group.
What is the salary of the ARI Junior Research Fellow?
The selected JRF will receive Rs. 37,000 per month plus HRA.
What is the last date to apply for ARI JRF Recruitment 2026?
The last date for submission of the online application is 01 October 2026.
What is the required qualification for the ARI JRF post?
Candidates must have a relevant first-class Master’s degree in Agriculture, Biotechnology or Botany as specified in the notification, along with the required national-level eligibility qualification.
Is NET or GATE required for the ARI JRF post?
Yes. The notification requires qualification in an eligible national-level examination such as ICAR/CSIR/UGC NET, GATE or another qualifying national-level examination specified in the advertisement.
What is the age limit for ARI JRF Recruitment?
The maximum age limit is 35 years, with applicable relaxation for eligible reserved categories according to Government of India regulations.
What is the selection process for ARI JRF Recruitment 2026?
Eligible candidates will be shortlisted and called for an online interview. The interview date and time will be published on the Institute website.
What is the research project for this JRF position?
The JRF will work on the DBT-funded project titled “Breeding Elite Indian Wheat with Durable Fusarium Head Blight Resistance Using Marker-Assisted Backcrossing.”
