National Innovation Foundation India Recruitment 2026 – Advertisement No. Adv/02/2026 for Scientist Posts
National Innovation Foundation – India (NIF), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, has released Advertisement No. Adv/02/2026 dated 29 August 2026 inviting applications from eligible Indian citizens for direct recruitment to various Scientist posts through open competition on an all‑India basis.
Important Dates for Submission of Online Applications
- Opening Date: 29 August 2026
- Closing Date: 30 days from publication in Employment News/Rozgar Samachar (till 23:59 hrs)
Details of Posts, Vacancies, Pay Levels and Age Limits
| Post | Pay Level (7th CPC) | No. of Vacancies | Reservation | Upper Age Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scientist ‘D’ | Level‑12 (₹78,800 – ₹2,09,200) | 01 | UR – 01 | Not exceeding 40 years |
| Scientist ‘C’ | Level‑11 (₹67,700 – ₹2,08,700) | 04 | UR – 01, OBC – 02, SC – 01 | Not exceeding 35 years |
| Scientist ‘B’ | Level‑10 (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500) | 05 | UR – 04, OBC – 01 | Not exceeding 35 years |
Eligibility Conditions and Essential Qualifications for Scientist Posts
- Nationality: Applicant must be a citizen of India.
- Scientist ‘D’: Ph.D. in Biological/Environmental/Agricultural/Biotechnology/Veterinary/Pharmaceutical Sciences with 5 years R&D experience and at least 5 high‑quality publications.
- Scientist ‘C’: Ph.D. in Agricultural/Mechanical/Electronics & Communication/Biological/Pharmaceutical Sciences with 3 years R&D experience and minimum 3 publications.
- Scientist ‘B’: Ph.D. or First Class Master’s Degree in Biological/Agricultural/Biotechnology/Veterinary Sciences with minimum 2 publications.
Application Fee and Exemptions for Eligible Categories
- UR/OBC/EWS candidates: ₹1,000 (non‑refundable).
- SC/ST/PwBD and Women candidates: Exempted from fee.
- Fee to be paid online via recruitment portal before closing date.
Selection Process and Screening Procedure for Scientist Recruitment
- Applications will be scrutinised by a Screening‑cum‑Shortlisting Committee.
- Written test may be conducted if necessary.
- Final selection will be based on interview, academic record, research contributions, and relevant experience.
- A reserve panel valid for one year will be prepared for future vacancies.
General Instructions and Clarifications for Applicants
- Experience will be counted after acquiring minimum essential qualification.
- Applicants must ensure eligibility before applying; incomplete or false information will lead to rejection.
- No TA/DA will be provided for attending test/interview.
- OBC candidates must submit valid non‑creamy layer certificate in prescribed format.
- All updates, corrigenda, and addenda will be published only on www.nif.org.in.
How to Apply Online for NIF Scientist Recruitment 2026
- Applications must be submitted online through NIF Recruitment Portal.
- Valid email ID and mobile number are mandatory for registration.
- Upload self‑attested copies of certificates for DOB, qualifications, experience, category, PwBD status, and publications.
- Applications must be submitted within 30 days of advertisement publication.
- Queries can be sent to jobs@nifindia.org or contact NIF office at Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About NIF Scientist Recruitment 2026
What is the last date to apply?
30 days from the date of publication in Employment News/Rozgar Samachar, till 23:59 hrs.
Where can I apply?
Applications must be submitted online via NIF Recruitment Portal.
Is there any application fee?
Yes, ₹1,000 for UR/OBC/EWS candidates. SC/ST/PwBD and Women candidates are exempted.
What is the selection process?
Screening, possible written test, and interview based on academic record, research contributions, and experience.
Final Note for Applicants
This recruitment drive by National Innovation Foundation – India offers an excellent opportunity for scientists and researchers to contribute to innovation, grassroots development, and national progress. Interested candidates should apply online before the deadline and prepare thoroughly for the selection process.
