Pharm'Up 
The Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, is inviting high-caliber researchers for a Research Associate-I position. This role is part of a flagship DBT-BIRAC initiative under India’s BioE3 Policy, focusing on the revolutionary field of “Smart Proteins” and cultivated meat.
Project Spotlight: Cultured Meat & Stem Cells
- Project Title: Formulation of serum-free growth media for the derivation and differentiation of bovine embryonic stem cells to muscle stem cells: a sustainable plant-based indigenous alternative for the production of cultured meat.
- Principal Investigator: Dr. Debasree Dutta, Laboratory of Cell & Developmental Biology.
- Objective: To create cost-effective, indigenous, and animal-free growth environments for producing “clean meat,” reducing reliance on traditional livestock.
Position & Compensation
| Feature | Details |
| Designation | Research Associate-I |
| Monthly Emolument | ₹58,000 + 18% HRA (Total: ₹68,440/-) |
| Duration | Initial 4 months (Extendable based on performance and project duration). |
| Age Limit | 35 Years (as of Feb 07, 2026). Govt. relaxations apply. |
Eligibility & Expertise
- Essential: * PhD in Life Sciences.
- Proven expertise in mammalian embryo isolation and Embryonic Stem Cell (ESC) culture.
- Documented experience (via thesis) in stem cell differentiation and embryo handling.
- Desirable: * PhD specifically in Stem Cell Biology.
- Hands-on skill in teratoma generation, muscle stem cell differentiation, and advanced molecular biology techniques.
Application Roadmap
- Submission: All applications must be submitted online via the RGCB Careers Portal.
- Deadline: February 07, 2026.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online selection interview.
- Important: Separate forms are required if you are applying for other positions (like the Project Associate-I role in the same lab).
About the Author
