Job Description

Overview

The Botanical Survey of India (BSI), a premier research organization under the Ministry of Environment & Forests, is currently seeking applications for the position of Junior Research Fellow (JRF). This recruitment drive aims to fill 6 vacancies in the field of Botany to support ongoing research initiatives at various regional centers across the country. The role offers a significant platform for budding researchers to contribute to plant taxonomy and systematics while gaining professional experience in a government-backed scientific environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conducting rigorous field surveys and plant collection across diverse geographical terrains in India.
  • Performing detailed laboratory analysis and identification of plant specimens collected during field trips.
  • Maintaining accurate records of herbarium specimens and updating digital databases for research reference.
  • Drafting technical reports, research papers, and documentation based on findings for publication.
  • Assisting senior scientists in ongoing botanical research projects and institutional studies.
  • Participating in regional and national workshops to present research progress and findings.

Why Apply

Selected fellows will benefit from a structured fellowship program that provides financial support and exposure to advanced botanical research methodologies. This role serves as a stepping stone for those aiming to pursue a Ph.D. or a career in scientific research within the government sector.

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: 09 August 2026

Quick Facts

  • Vacancy Count: 6
  • Pay: ₹37,000 to ₹42,000 per month
  • Location: Pan-India
  • Category: Other Jobs

BSI Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026 Overview

End Date
09 Aug 2026
Salary
₹37,000 - ₹42,000
Vacancies
6
Eligibility
M.Sc. in Botany
Application Link

Vacancy Details

  • Junior Research Fellow (JRF): 6 Posts

How to Apply

  1. Visit the official Bharatkosh portal to pay the examination fee and download the payment receipt.
  2. Download and fill out the official application form with personal and academic details.
  3. Prepare a hard copy of the application, fee receipt, and supporting documents.
  4. Send the hard copy via Registered Post to the Scientist-in-Charge, Technical Section, BSI-Hqrs, Kolkata.
  5. Compile all documents into a single PDF and email it to the official address with the subject line format: BSI_JRF_2026_FN_LN.
  6. Submit the online application form via the Google Form link available on the BSI website.
  7. Retain a copy of the submitted application and payment receipt for future reference.

Cutoff Marks

Not specified.

Application Fee

General: ₹400 | OBC: ₹200 | SC/ST/PH: ₹100. Payment must be made online via the Bharatkosh portal using the 'Quick Pay' option.

Age Limit

Maximum 28 years as of 09 August 2026. Relaxation: 5 years for SC/ST/PH/Female, 3 years for OBC (NCL).

Selection Process

The selection process comprises a written test followed by an interview. The written test is an offline MCQ-based paper lasting 3 hours, conducted at various BSI regional centers. Candidates who have cleared the CSIR-JRF NET are exempted from the written test and proceed directly to the interview stage if shortlisted. Final selection is based on performance in the interview, which may be conducted online or at designated regional centers depending on the number of applicants.

Exam Pattern

The written examination consists of a single paper containing Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) covering the subject of Botany. The test duration is 3 hours. Specific subject-wise weightage is determined by the BSI examination board.

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Organization

The Botanical Survey of India (BSI) is the apex research organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India. Established in 1890, it is headquartered in Kolkata. The BSI is mandated to conduct floristic surveys, document plant diversity, and carry out taxonomic research across the country. It operates through various regional centers and herbariums, contributing significantly to the conservation and scientific understanding of India's rich botanical heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

The absolute deadline for submitting the hard copy, soft copy, and online application form is 09 August 2026. Applications received after this date will not be considered. Ensure you complete all three submission modes before the deadline to avoid disqualification.

There are 6 Junior Research Fellow vacancies in Botany. The notification does not provide a specific category-wise or centre-wise breakup, meaning these posts are open across BSI's regional centres based on organizational requirements. Check the official notification for any further updates regarding vacancy distribution.

Candidates must possess a Master's degree (M.Sc.) in Botany from a UGC-recognized university. A minimum of 55% aggregate marks is mandatory at the time of application submission. Specialization in Plant Taxonomy or Plant Systematics is considered a desirable qualification for the role.

The maximum age limit is 28 years as of the last date of application submission. Age relaxation is available: 5 years for SC, ST, Physically Handicapped, and female applicants, and 3 years for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates. Always verify your age eligibility against the official notification.

The non-refundable fee is ₹400 for General, ₹200 for OBC, and ₹100 for SC/ST/PH candidates. Payment must be made exclusively online through the Bharatkosh portal using the 'Quick Pay' option. Download the payment receipt, as the receipt number and date are required for the application form.

Selected candidates will receive a consolidated monthly fellowship of ₹37,000 for the first two years, which increases to ₹42,000 from the third year onwards. Additionally, House Rent Allowance (HRA) is provided as per central government rules. This fellowship is purely contractual.

Yes, candidates who have qualified for the CSIR-JRF NET are exempted from the written examination stage. However, they are still required to complete the application process, select their preferred examination centres, and appear for the interview if they are shortlisted by the selection committee.

You must complete three steps: send a hard copy by Registered Post to the BSI Headquarters in Kolkata, email a soft copy to the official email address, and submit the online Google Form via the BSI website. All three must be completed by 09 August 2026.
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