AIIMS Bhopal Project Research Scientist-I Recruitment 2026
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhopal has announced an exciting opportunity for Indian nationals to apply for the post of Project Research Scientist-I under an ICMR-funded research project titled “Developing PolQ - Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTAC) for Treatment of Head-Neck Cancers by Inhibiting Microhomology Mediated End Joining DNA Repair Pathway.” 🧪
📋 Project Overview
This interdisciplinary project aims to develop novel POLQ-targeting PROTACs to treat head and neck cancers (HNC) by disrupting the microhomology-mediated end joining (MMEJ) DNA repair pathway. The study will use AI-driven compound libraries for design and screening, followed by synthesis, characterization, and testing in HNC cell lines. The goal is to enhance chemo- and radiosensitivity, explore synthetic lethal interactions, and advance precision cancer therapy. 💡
👨🔬 Position Details
| Post Name | Project Research Scientist-I |
|---|---|
| Project Title | Developing PolQ-PROTACs for Head-Neck Cancer Treatment |
| Principal Investigator | Dr. Ashwin Kotnis, Professor, Department of Biochemistry, AIIMS Bhopal |
| Number of Posts | 01 |
| Tenure | Up to 13 March 2027 (extendable by one year based on fund disbursal) |
| Remuneration | ₹56,000 + 20% HRA (₹11,200) = ₹67,200 per month |
| Age Limit | Below 35 years (as on last date of application). Age relaxation for SC/ST as per rules. |
| Application Fee | Nil |
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
- 📘 Essential Qualification: Postgraduate degree (including integrated PG degrees). For Engineering/IT/CS, a four-year graduate degree is acceptable.
- 🔬 Desirable: Hands-on experience in molecular and cell biology techniques, gene cloning, protein purification, handling clinical samples, combinatorial chemistry, biostatistics, and bioinformatics.
- 🎓 Preference will be given to Ph.D. holders with relevant publications.
🧭 How to Apply
- 📄 Download the application form from AIIMS Bhopal Jobs Portal.
- ✍️ Fill in all required details carefully.
- 📧 Send a scanned copy of the filled application form to researchstaff2023@gmail.com by Monday, 8 June 2026.
- 🚫 Do not send hard copies of the application form.
🧪 Selection Process
- ✅ Shortlisting based on eligibility and qualifications.
- 🧾 Written test and/or interview will be conducted at AIIMS Bhopal.
- 📅 Tentative date: 11 June 2026.
- 📍 Venue: AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal – 462020.
- 📢 Date, time, and venue will be communicated to shortlisted candidates via email.
📑 Documents Required at Interview
- 📝 Duly filled application form.
- 📚 Original and attested photocopies of all certificates and mark sheets (10th onwards).
- 📄 Detailed CV and supporting documents.
- 📷 Two recent passport-size color photographs.
⚙️ Terms & Conditions
- 📜 Candidates must ensure eligibility before applying; misinformation may lead to disqualification.
- 🧾 Appointment is purely temporary and contractual; no claim for permanent absorption.
- 📆 Contract may be terminated by either side with 30 days’ notice or salary in lieu.
- 🏖️ Leave entitlement as per ICMR extramural research project policy.
- 🏠 No accommodation will be provided by AIIMS Bhopal.
- 📄 Government employees must produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) at the time of interview.
- 🚫 Canvassing of any kind will lead to disqualification.
- ⚖️ All disputes are subject to jurisdiction of courts at Bhopal.
🏢 About AIIMS Bhopal
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhopal is a premier medical institution under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It is dedicated to excellence in medical education, research, and healthcare. The institute actively collaborates with national and international agencies to advance biomedical research and innovation. 🌍
📅 Important Dates
- 📢 Advertisement Date: 27 May 2026
- 🗓️ Last Date to Apply: 8 June 2026
- 🧪 Tentative Written Test/Interview: 11 June 2026
📍 Contact Information
Principal Investigator: Dr. Ashwin Kotnis
Professor, Department of Biochemistry
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhopal
Saket Nagar, Bhopal – 462020, Madhya Pradesh
Website: www.aiimsbhopal.edu.in
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 📅 What is the last date to apply for AIIMS Bhopal Project Research Scientist-I?
- The last date for submission of applications is 8 June 2026.
- 🎓 What qualifications are required?
- Candidates must hold a Postgraduate degree (or integrated PG degree). For Engineering/IT/CS, a four-year graduate degree is acceptable.
- 🔬 Is prior research experience necessary?
- Experience in molecular biology, gene cloning, protein purification, and bioinformatics is desirable. Preference will be given to Ph.D. holders with publications.
- 💰 What is the salary for the Project Research Scientist-I post?
- The consolidated monthly remuneration is ₹67,200 (₹56,000 + 20% HRA).
- 📍 Where will the interview be held?
- The interview/written test will be conducted at AIIMS Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal – 462020.
- 📧 How can I apply?
- Send a scanned copy of the filled application form to researchstaff2023@gmail.com by 8 June 2026. Do not send hard copies.
- 🧾 What documents should I bring to the interview?
- Bring original certificates, attested photocopies, CV, and two passport-size photographs.
- ⚙️ Is this a permanent position?
- No, this is a temporary contractual position under an ICMR-funded project.
- 🧩 Why should I apply for this position?
- This role offers a chance to contribute to cutting‑edge cancer research at one of India’s premier medical institutes. You’ll work on an interdisciplinary project combining molecular biology, chemistry, and AI‑driven drug design — a rare opportunity to make a real impact in precision oncology. 🧬
- 📞 Who is the contact person for this project?
- The Principal Investigator is Dr. Ashwin Kotnis, Professor, Department of Biochemistry, AIIMS Bhopal. All correspondence should be directed to researchstaff2023@gmail.com.
- 📍 Where can I find updates about the interview and results?
- All updates — including interview schedule, results, and joining instructions — will be posted on the official website www.aiimsbhopal.edu.in. No individual notifications will be sent.
- ⚖️ What are the key terms of the contract?
- The appointment is purely temporary under ICMR rules. It can be terminated by either side with 30 days’ notice or salary in lieu. The position does not confer any right to permanent absorption in AIIMS Bhopal or ICMR.
- 🚫 Is there any application fee?
- No. There is no application fee for this recruitment.
- 🏖️ Will accommodation be provided?
- No hostel or other accommodation will be provided by AIIMS Bhopal. Candidates must arrange their own stay during the tenure.
- 📄 What should I bring on the day of the interview?
- Bring your filled application form, original certificates, self‑attested photocopies, two passport‑size photographs, and any documents supporting your research experience or publications.
- 🧠 What is the focus area of the research project?
- The project focuses on developing POLQ‑targeting PROTACs to inhibit the microhomology‑mediated end‑joining DNA repair pathway in head‑and‑neck cancers, aiming to improve chemo‑ and radiosensitivity.
- 📅 When will the written test or interview be held?
- Tentatively on 11 June 2026 at AIIMS Bhopal. Exact date and time will be confirmed to shortlisted candidates via email.
- 🧾 What happens if my application is incomplete?
- Incomplete applications or those lacking required documents will be summarily rejected. Ensure all fields are filled and documents attached before submission.
- ⚙️ What is the age limit for applying?
- Candidates must be below 35 years as of the last date of application. Age relaxation for SC/ST candidates applies as per government rules.
- 📚 What skills will strengthen my application?
- Hands‑on experience in molecular and cell biology, gene cloning, protein purification, biostatistics, and bioinformatics will make your application stand out. Publications in peer‑reviewed journals are a plus. 🧫
- 🧩 What is the tenure of the project?
- The appointment lasts until 13 March 2027 and may be extended for one year depending on ICMR fund disbursal and project progress.
- 📈 What are the career benefits of this role?
- Working on an ICMR‑funded project at AIIMS Bhopal enhances your research profile, provides exposure to translational cancer studies, and opens pathways for Ph.D. and post‑doctoral opportunities in biomedical research. 🌟
