Institute of Advanced Virology Project Associate-I Recruitment 2026

About Institute of Advanced Virology Recruitment 2026

The Institute of Advanced Virology (IAV), operating under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Kerala, has officially released the notification for the Project Associate-I recruitment under advertisement number IAV/405/R&D/2026. This scientific engagement presents an exceptional window for life science professionals aiming to build a high-impact research career in advanced virology, molecular diagnostics, and therapeutic development.

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

Candidates looking to advance their scientific research journey can also check more Post Graduate jobs in Kerala across various state-run premier scientific institutions. As part of ongoing research initiatives based in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, the selected candidate will work on cutting-edge contractual assignments with possibilities of tenure extension subject to performance evaluations.

Post Details, Vacancy Count & Eligibility Criteria

The recruitment drive aims to fill exactly 2 vacancies for the post of Project Associate-I. Applicants must meet specific academic milestones and technical skill sets mandated by the Institute of Advanced Virology to clear the initial screening committee stage successfully.

• Post Name: Project Associate-I
• Total Vacancies: 2 posts
• Educational Qualification: Master's degree or equivalent with a minimum of 60% marks in Virology, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or Biochemistry from a recognised University or Institute.
• Desirable Experience: Practical research background in molecular biology, cell culture techniques, and mouse handling is highly preferred.
• Age Limit: Maximum 32 years as on 01 November 2026. Age relaxations are applicable as per government norms.

Remuneration, Pay Scale & Contract Terms

Selected candidates for the Project Associate-I position will receive a fixed consolidated monthly emolument of Rs. 25,000 per month. The nature of employment is purely contractual for an initial duration of 1 Year.

The contract duration is extendable beyond one year based on yearly progress evaluations and Project Monitoring Committee (PMC) grading. To explore other similar research openings across regional scientific hubs, candidates can explore all latest Kerala Government Jobs listed on official portals.

Selection Methodology & Examination Process

The recruitment methodology is designed to identify candidates with strong theoretical foundations and practical laboratory competencies. The multi-stage selection process comprises:

• Stage 1 (Screening): A duly constituted committee will screen all submitted online applications based on academic records and research exposure.
• Stage 2 (Written Test and/or Interview): Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in a written examination and/or a personal interview conducted by IAV.
• Stage 3 (Document Verification): Final selection is contingent upon successful verification of original academic certificates, identity proofs, and category documents.

Applicants may also review similar scientific opportunities such as the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology Recruitment 2026 Walk-In for Senior Project Associate and JRF Posts recruitment details for broader career options.

Application Fee & Payment Guidelines

The application fee is uniformly set across all applicant categories as detailed in the official notification. Candidates must pay the prescribed amount through digital banking channels before the deadline.

• Fee Amount: Rs. 236 (calculated as Rs. 200 application fee plus applicable GST).
• Applicable Categories: General, OBC, EWS, SC, and ST candidates are all subject to the fee of Rs. 236. Fee exemption is not applicable.
• Payment Gateway: Payment must be made strictly online via the SBI Collect portal by navigating to Educational Institutions > Institute of Advanced Virology > Fees Recruitment.

Step-by-Step Online Application Guide

Submitting an error-free application requires strict adherence to the prescribed digital registration protocol. Follow these steps to complete your submission before 16 November 2026, 05:00 PM:

• Step 1: Access the official online application portal using the primary apply link.
• Step 2: Fill in all mandatory personal, academic, and contact details accurately. Ensure you provide a valid e-mail ID, as all official correspondence will be transmitted via e-mail only.
• Step 3: Pay the required fee of Rs. 236 through the SBI Collect portal and save the electronic payment receipt reference number.
• Step 4: Upload scanned copies of required educational certificates, marksheets, a recent passport-size photograph, and valid photo identity proof.
• Step 5: If your university awards grades instead of absolute percentages, ensure you attach the official CGPA/Grade to percentage conversion formula.
• Step 6: Review the completed form thoroughly and submit it on or before 16 November 2026 up to 05:00 PM, retaining a printout for future reference.

Essential Documents Checklist

During the online registration and subsequent document verification stages, candidates must keep the following documents ready in proper digital formats:

• Educational qualification marksheets and degree certificates from a recognised University or Board.
• Official CGPA or grade conversion certificate (if applicable).
• Valid government-issued photo identity proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, or PAN Card).
• Recent passport-size colour photograph.
• SBI Collect online payment receipt.