CSIR-NML Project Associate & JRF Recruitment 2026

About This Job

CSIR-NML has released a notification for 2 Project Staff positions — 1 Project Associate-I and 1 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) — at its Chennai Centre located inside the CSIR Madras Complex. Candidates with B.E/B.Tech or M.Sc qualifications can attend the walk-in interview on 09 April 2026. The JRF position offers a stipend of Rs. 37,000 per month + HRA, while the Project Associate-I post carries Rs. 25,000 per month + HRA.

CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR-NML) Project Associate & JRF Recruitment 2026 - 2 Posts

CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR-NML), a premier research institute under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), is recruiting project staff for its Chennai Centre at the CSIR Madras Complex, Taramani. These positions are tied to the project GAP-0327, which focuses on the development of graphite recovery processes from spent lithium-ion battery black mass using laboratory-scale flotation technology. This is a walk-in interview with no application fee — you just need to show up at the venue with your documents. Both freshers and experienced candidates in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mineral Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, and Materials Science are encouraged to attend.

Vacancy Details

Who Can Apply?

For Project Associate-I (PAT-I):

• Qualification: You need a B.E or B.Tech degree in Chemical Engineering or Mineral Engineering from a recognised university. Alternatively, an M.Sc in Chemistry is also accepted.
• Age Limit: You should be below 35 years as on the date of interview (09 April 2026).

For Junior Research Fellow (JRF):

• Qualification: You need an M.Sc in Chemistry or Material Science, or an M.E/M.Tech in Chemical Engineering (any branch), Mineral Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or Materials Engineering.
• Preferred: Candidates with NET or GATE qualification will be given preference.
• Age Limit: You should be below 28 years as on the date of interview (09 April 2026).

Freshers who hold at least a Provisional Certificate or Consolidated Mark Sheet are eligible to attend the interview.

Age Limit

• Project Associate-I: Maximum 35 years as on date of interview (09 April 2026)
• Junior Research Fellow: Maximum 28 years as on date of interview (09 April 2026)
• Age Relaxation for SC/ST/PwBD/Women: 5 years
• Age Relaxation for OBC: 3 years

Stipend

• Project Associate-I (PAT-I): Rs. 25,000 per month plus HRA as applicable
• Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Rs. 37,000 per month plus HRA as applicable
• Both positions are initially for 6 months and can be extended up to 01 December 2027 based on project requirements and your performance.

Selection Process

Selection will be done in the following way:

1. Document Verification: Your original certificates and testimonials will be checked at the venue itself on the day of the interview.
2. Written Test (if required): If the number of candidates is very high, a written test may be conducted before the interview. This test is qualifying in nature.
3. Walk-in Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed on the same day. Final selection is based on academic merit and interview performance.

How to Apply

1. Download the official notification from the CSIR Madras Complex website or nml.res.in.
2. Fill in the application form in the prescribed format given in the notification.
3. Paste a recent passport-size colour photograph on the application form.
4. Carry your filled application along with original certificates and one set of self-attested photocopies of all documents.
5. Report at CSIR Madras Complex, CSIR Road, Taramani, Chennai-600113 on 09 April 2026 by 9:30 AM.

Late arrivals after 9:30 AM will not be allowed to attend the interview. No TA/DA will be paid for attending the walk-in.

Important Dates

• Notification Date: 23 March 2026
• Walk-in Interview Date: 09 April 2026
• Reporting Time: 9:30 AM
• Venue: CSIR Madras Complex, CSIR Road, Taramani, Chennai-600113

• Conduct laboratory experiments for recovery of graphite from spent lithium-ion battery materials
• Operate and maintain flotation column equipment at laboratory scale
• Prepare samples, chemicals, and reagents for research experiments
• Record experimental data, analyse results, and prepare technical reports
• Assist senior researchers in designing and optimising flotation processes
• Maintain lab safety protocols and keep the workspace clean and organised
• Present research findings in project review meetings and contribute to publications