Nestled amid the green valleys of Himachal Pradesh, the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), Palampur has once again opened its doors to aspiring researchers. Through Advertisement No. 15/2025, the institute invites bright and motivated candidates to join its research projects in areas spanning biotechnology, floriculture, microbiology, food science, and more.
If you are passionate about life sciences and looking for hands-on research experience in one of India’s most scenic scientific campuses, this is your moment. The recruitment is purely temporary, yet each position promises exposure to cutting-edge science under the mentorship of world-class scientists.
About CSIR-IHBT: A Jewel of the Himalayas
The CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology is a constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), under India’s Ministry of Science and Technology. Located in Palampur (District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh), IHBT focuses on harnessing Himalayan bioresources for national benefit spanning medicinal plants, floriculture, biotechnology, natural products, and environmental sustainability.
For decades, IHBT has served as a cradle of innovation where science meets sustainability. From developing high-altitude crops to establishing India’s first “Tea Biotechnology Laboratory,” the institute continues to push boundaries through multidisciplinary research.
Highlights of Advertisement No. 15/2025
The current notification covers multiple Project Assistant (PA) and Project Associate (PAT) positions across several prestigious national and CSIR-funded projects. These roles offer a perfect blend of laboratory work, field studies, and applied innovation.
1. Smart Village (MMP045201)
One of IHBT’s flagship programs, this project promotes the integration of bioresource technology into rural development.
Open Positions:
- Project Assistant-II (B.Sc. Life Science; ₹20,000 + HRA)
- Project Associate-I (M.Sc. Biotechnology/Food Science/Nutrition; up to ₹31,000 + HRA)
- Project Associate-II and Senior-PAT roles in horticulture, home science, and food technology
The Smart Village initiative provides hands-on exposure to food processing, nutritional analysis, and sustainable agricultural practices—a rare chance to apply scientific knowledge for community impact.
2. CSIR Floriculture Mission – Phase II (HCP-0037)
Floriculture is emerging as a major livelihood opportunity in India’s hill regions. Under this mission, IHBT is looking for candidates trained in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Botany, or Horticulture to assist in developing high-value floricultural crops and technologies.
Positions: Project Associate-I with fellowship ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹31,000 + HRA.
Candidates with practical experience in biotechnology tools or floricultural R&D will have an edge.
3. Integrating Imaging, Multi-Omics, and Machine Learning (GAP-0332)
This futuristic project aims to decode stress-resistant leaf traits using advanced imaging, omics data, and AI-driven analysis.
Position: Senior Project Associate (M.Sc. + 3 years’ experience or Ph.D. in Botany/Biotech/Life Science).
This is an exciting opportunity for researchers passionate about plant stress biology, functional genomics, or transcriptomics, blending biology with computational science.
4. Extremozymes from Himalayan Microbiomes (GAP-0360)
For those intrigued by microbiology and industrial enzymes, this project focuses on optimizing and scaling up extremozymes sourced from Himalayan hot springs and cold deserts.
Positions: Two Project Associate-I roles (M.Sc. in Microbiology/Biotech/Life Sciences).
Experience in protein purification or enzyme characterization is highly desirable.
5. Natural Product and Phytochemistry Research (GAP-0358)
IHBT’s research into the anti-diabetic potential of the underexplored edible flower Tupistra nutans opens two positions for Project Associate-II.
Candidates with M.Sc. in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Phytochemistry, or M.Pharm. are encouraged to apply.
Those skilled in natural product chemistry, phytochemical analysis, or in-vitro models will find this particularly rewarding.
6. Jigyasa 2.0: Virtual Laboratory Integration (HCP-00101)
This project blends science education with outreach, aiming to make learning interactive for students nationwide.
Position: Project Associate-I (M.Sc. Zoology/Entomology/Microbiology).
Candidates with experience in student demonstrations, outreach programs, or insect rearing will fit perfectly into this role.
Eligibility and Age Limits
- Upper Age Limit: 35 years for most Project Associates and Assistants; 40 years for Senior PAT positions (as on date of interview).
- Age Relaxation: 5 years for SC/ST/PwBD/Women and 3 years for OBC candidates, as per Government of India norms.
- Educational Qualifications: From B.Sc. in Life Sciences/Home Science/Nutrition to Ph.D. in relevant disciplines, depending on the position.
- Tenure: Most projects continue up to March 2026–2028, co-terminus with project duration.
Walk-in Interview Schedule
All interviews will be held in person at:
CSIR-IHBT Campus, Palampur (H.P.)
- Dates: 6th – 11th November 2025
- Time: 9:30 AM (Reporting after 10:00 AM will not be permitted)
Eligible candidates must bring a filled-in application form (available on www.ihbt.res.in) with a recent passport-size photo, along with self-attested copies of certificates for age, qualifications, and experience.
Original documents must also be presented for verification.
Note: Online interviews will not be entertained, and no TA/DA will be paid for attending.
Why Join IHBT?
Working at IHBT offers more than a stipend—it offers an experience that shapes careers. The institute provides:
- Exposure to real-world research in plant science, microbiology, and biotechnology.
- Opportunities to collaborate with national and international scientists.
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and the breathtaking Himalayan environment.
- A chance to publish, learn, and contribute to India’s scientific growth.
How to Reach Palampur
Palampur is well connected by train, bus, and air:
- By Train: Up to Una, Amb, or Chakki Bank (Pathankot) railway stations.
- By Bus: Direct routes via Chandigarh, Una, Dehra, and Kangra.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal (Dharamshala), linked with Delhi.
Important Notes
- Candidates awaiting final results are not eligible.
- Separate applications must be submitted for each position code.
- All posts are purely temporary and carry no claim for permanent employment.
- Performance of project staff will be reviewed every six months, and continuation depends on satisfactory progress.
- For queries, contact recruitment@ihbt.res.in.
Preparing for opportunities like the CSIR-IHBT recruitment requires more than just qualification—it demands awareness, planning, and persistence. Start early, keep your documents ready, and stay updated on upcoming interviews and research openings across India’s top institutes. For verified job alerts, exam guidance, project vacancies, and step-by-step resources to advance your scientific career, visit BioCareersHub your reliable companion in navigating the world of life sciences opportunities.