DST-SERB Funded Research Position Project Associate-I in Cancer Biology at RGCB, Thiruvananthapuram

Applications are invited from highly motivated and eligible Indian citizens for a temporary position of Project Associate – I in a high-impact research project funded by the Department of Science & Technology – Science and Engineering Research Board (DST-SERB). This role is based at the BRIC-RGCB campus in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, and the selected candidate will work under the Principal Investigator, Dr. K.B. Harikumar.

Project Focus and Role

The research project is aimed at advancing cancer treatment strategies:

Project Title: “Sensitizing of immune unresponsive colorectal cancers to checkpoint inhibitors through silencing of Acid Ceramidase expression.”

The Project Associate-I will be central to carrying out experimental work related to this focus, which involves techniques in molecular biology, cancer models, and immune cell interactions.

Position Requirements

1. Essential Qualifications

Education: A First Class Master’s Degree in any branch of life sciences (e.g., Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Zoology, etc.).
Experience: A minimum of 6 months documented experience in either mammalian cell culture or handling laboratory animals. Knowledge of pre-clinical models of cancer is also mandatory.

2. Desirable Qualification

The candidate should have qualified a National Eligibility Test, such as CSIR/UGC-NET/LS, GATE, DBT-BET, ICMR, DST-Inspire Fellowship, or an equivalent national-level examination.

3. Age Limit and Remuneration

Age: Below 32 years as on November 20, 2025. Age relaxation rules apply as per Government of India norms.
Emolument (Monthly):
- ₹31,000/- + 16% HRA: For candidates possessing both the essential and desirable qualifications (i.e., qualified NET/GATE).
- ₹25,000/- + 16% HRA: For candidates possessing only the essential qualifications.
Duration: Initially for a period of 11 months or till the termination of the project, whichever is earlier. Extension is subject to performance review.

Application & Selection Procedure

Application Deadline: The last date for receiving completed online applications is November 20, 2025.
Application Submission: Applications must be submitted online in the prescribed format.
Selection Process: Candidates will be shortlisted based on the specified eligibility criteria. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an online selection interview.
Important Note: Candidates currently employed in Government organizations must submit their applications through the proper channel. Separate applications are required if applying for multiple positions at RGCB.
Travel: No TA/DA will be provided for attending the interview.

The position is purely temporary and is co-terminus with the project.