Microbiome to Medicine: CSIR-IMTech Announces Research Opening for Novel Drug Discovery

The Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTech), a premier laboratory under the CSIR, is seeking a motivated Research Associate-I to join its pharmaceutical research wing. This position is part of a high-priority project focused on the “Discovery and Development of Novel Drugs and Pharmaceuticals,” bridging the gap between microbial biotechnology and modern medicine.

Pioneering the Next Generation of Therapeutics

Working under project code GAP-0252-20, the selected researcher will contribute to the early-stage identification of drug leads. The role combines traditional microbiology with advanced molecular tools:

Microbial Prospecting: Identifying, characterizing, and preserving unique microbes that may hold the key to new antibiotics or pharmaceuticals.
Molecular Analysis: Utilizing DNA isolation and PCR techniques to screen microbial genomes for drug-producing potential.
Strategic Development: Sampling and handling microbes to build a robust library for pharmaceutical discovery.

Candidate Profile & Eligibility

IMTech is looking for candidates who can navigate both the biological and chemical aspects of drug research.

Criteria	Requirements
Education	Masters in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Natural Sciences, or MVSc. (B.E./B.Tech in Biotech/Medicine also eligible).
Desirable Skills	M.Sc. in Microbiology with hands-on experience in handling and preserving microbes.
Asset Skills	Knowledge of molecular biology techniques (DNA isolation, PCR) and systematic sampling.
Age Limit	Standard CSIR norms apply (Relaxations: 5 yrs for SC/ST/Women/PwBD, 3 yrs for OBC).

Financial Emoluments

The stipend for this fellowship is structured based on the candidate’s national-level qualifications:

Rs. 31,000/- + HRA: For candidates who have qualified CSIR-UGC NET (including lectureship), GATE, or other national examinations conducted by central agencies like DBT/DST.
Rs. 25,000/- + HRA: For candidates who possess the essential degrees but have not qualified for the above national exams.

Important Application Details

This is a time-sensitive opportunity within the CSIR network.

Deadline: Applications must be submitted by April 26, 2026.
Eligibility Note: Candidates awaiting their final results are not eligible to apply.
Protocol: In any case of dispute, the English version of the official notification remains the final authority.