The CSIR CLRI Recruitment 2026 notification has been officially released by the CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), Chennai for various project-based positions. Eligible candidates from M.Pharm, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry, Engineering, and other related disciplines can participate in the recruitment process.
For pharmacy students and GPAT-qualified candidates, this is an excellent opportunity to work in one of India’s leading research institutes under the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR).

Quick Summary
CSIR CLRI Recruitment 2026 offers vacancies for Junior Research Fellow (JRF), Project Associate-I, Project Associate-II, and Project Assistant-II. GPAT, GATE, and NET-qualified candidates receive additional benefits, including higher fellowships and direct interview eligibility where applicable. The written test is scheduled for 19 August 2026, followed by interviews on 20–21 August 2026.
CSIR CLRI Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute |
| Notification No. | 06/2026 |
| Location | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
| Job Type | Temporary Project Positions |
| Written Test | 19 August 2026 |
| Interview | 20 & 21 August 2026 |
| Selection Process | Written Test + Interview |
| Official Notification | Released |
Vacancy Details
The recruitment includes the following positions:
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF)
- Project Associate-I
- Project Associate-II
- Project Assistant-II
These positions are available across multiple research projects in pharmacology, biotechnology, chemistry, biomedical sciences, computational biology, engineering, medical physics, and related fields.
Eligibility Criteria
Junior Research Fellow (JRF)
Essential Qualification
Candidates must possess any one of the following:
- M.Pharm (Pharmacology)
- M.Tech (Biotechnology/Biomedical Sciences)
- M.Sc. (Biochemistry)
- M.Sc. (Biotechnology)
- M.Sc. (Life Sciences)
- M.Sc. (Biomedical Sciences)
Minimum Marks:
- 60%
Additionally, candidates should have qualified one of the following:
- GPAT
- GATE
- CSIR-UGC NET
- ICMR NET
- DBT/DST National Level Examination
- Equivalent National Level Examination
Desirable Experience:
- Recombinant protein expression
- Cell culture
- Protein characterization

Project Associate-I
Eligible qualifications include:
- M.Pharm
- M.Tech Biotechnology
- Biomedical Sciences
- M.Sc Biotechnology
- M.Sc Biochemistry
- Biomedical Sciences
Desirable Experience
- Cell Culture
- Animal Handling
- Recombinant Protein Research
Other Eligible Qualifications
Candidates from the following disciplines are also eligible for different positions:
- Chemistry
- Medical Biochemistry
- Biomedical Engineering
- Physics
- Medical Physics
- Data Science
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Bioinformatics
- Physiotherapy
- Prosthetics & Orthotics
Salary
| Position | Salary |
|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow | ₹37,000 + HRA |
| Project Associate-II | ₹28,000–35,000 + HRA |
| Project Associate-I | ₹25,000–30,000 + HRA |
| Project Assistant-II | ₹20,000 + HRA |
Age Limit
| Post | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow | 28 Years |
| Project Associate-I | 35 Years |
| Project Associate-II | 35 Years |
| Project Assistant-II | 35 Years |
Age relaxation is available as per Government of India rules for eligible categories.
Selection Process
The recruitment process consists of two stages.
Stage 1: Written Test
The written test includes:
- Subject Knowledge
- General Awareness
- General Intelligence
- Aptitude
- General English
Question Type:
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Maximum Marks:
- 50 Marks
Stage 2: Personal Interview
Candidates qualifying in the written test will be invited for the interview.
Important: Candidates who have qualified GPAT, GATE, NET, or equivalent national-level examinations are exempted from the written test and may directly attend the interview according to the official schedule.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 28 July 2026 |
| Written Test | 19 August 2026 |
| Interview | 20 & 21 August 2026 |
How to Apply
Eligible candidates should:
- Download the application form from the official notification.
- Fill in all required details.
- Attach self-attested copies of educational and experience certificates.
- Carry original documents for verification.
- Report to CSIR-CLRI, Chennai on the scheduled written test/interview date.
Applications by post, courier, or speed post will not be accepted.
Documents Required
- Application Form
- Passport Size Photographs
- Aadhaar Card / Government Photo ID
- Educational Certificates
- Mark Sheets
- Experience Certificates (if applicable)
- Original Documents
- Self-attested Photocopies
Why Should Pharmacy Candidates Apply?
If you are an M.Pharm student or GPAT-qualified candidate, this recruitment offers several advantages:
- Opportunity to work at a premier CSIR research institute.
- Attractive fellowship up to ₹37,000 + HRA.
- Valuable research experience in pharmacology and biotechnology.
- Exposure to advanced laboratory techniques and national research projects.
- Strong profile enhancement for future Ph.D. admissions and research careers.
Important Links
| Resource | Status |
|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Available |
| Application Form | Attached with Notification |
| Official Website | CSIR-CLRI |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the last date to apply for CSIR CLRI Recruitment 2026?
Not mentioned in the official notification. Candidates need to appear for the written test/interview as scheduled.
2. Can GPAT-qualified candidates apply?
Yes. GPAT-qualified M.Pharm candidates meeting the eligibility criteria can apply for the JRF position.
3. Is there any written examination?
Yes. A written test is conducted for eligible candidates. However, GPAT, GATE, and NET-qualified candidates are exempted from the written test and may directly attend the interview.
4. What is the salary for JRF?
Selected JRF candidates will receive ₹37,000 per month plus HRA.
5. What is the age limit?
The upper age limit is 28 years for JRF and 35 years for most Project Associate and Project Assistant posts, with relaxation as per Government rules.
6. Are these permanent jobs?
No. These are temporary project-based positions and do not guarantee permanent employment.
7. Is experience mandatory?
Experience is required only where specifically mentioned in the official notification. Some positions list desirable or essential experience, while others do not.
8. Where will the written test and interview be conducted?
The written test and interview will be conducted at CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), Adyar, Chennai.
Conclusion
The CSIR CLRI Recruitment 2026 is an excellent opportunity for M.Pharm, GPAT-qualified, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Life Science, and Engineering graduates looking to build a career in research. With attractive fellowships, prestigious CSIR projects, and opportunities for professional growth, eligible candidates should carefully review the official notification and attend the written test/interview as per the schedule.


