CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026 has released Advertisement No. Rectt./04/2026 for 41 contractual and project-based positions at CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL), New Delhi. The Walk-In Interview is scheduled on 21 October 2026 and 22 October 2026 between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM in the laboratory Auditorium. Posts range from Project Assistant to Research Associate with monthly stipends up to Rs.58,000 + HRA. This guide covers every post code, salary, eligibility, and step-by-step process to attend the walk-in interview successfully.
CSIR NPL recruitment 2026 invites eligible science and engineering graduates for 41 project-based posts via Walk-In Interview on 21–22 October 2026 at New Delhi. Monthly stipends range from Rs.18,000 to Rs.58,000 plus HRA depending on post and qualification.
- Organisation: CSIR – National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL), New Delhi
- Advertisement No.: Rectt./04/2026
- Total Posts: 41 (Post Codes 1.0 to 36.0)
- Post Types: Project Associate-I/II, Project Assistant-I/II, JRF, SRF, Research Associate-I, Project Scientist-I, Senior PAT
- Walk-In Date (Day 1): 21 October 2026 — Post Codes 1.0 to 17.0
- Walk-In Date (Day 2): 22 October 2026 — Post Codes 18.0 to 36.0
- Reporting Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM (No entry after 10:00 AM)
- Venue: Auditorium, CSIR-NPL, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi – 110012
- Monthly Stipend Range: Rs.18,000 to Rs.58,000 + HRA
- Maximum Age Limit: 28 to 50 years depending on the post
- Nature of Engagement: Purely contractual/temporary under sponsored projects
- Official Website: nplindia.in
📋 Table of Contents
- What Is CSIR NPL and This Recruitment?
- Who Should Apply for CSIR NPL 2026?
- Salary and Stipend Details
- Post-Wise Vacancy Details (All 36 Post Codes)
- Eligibility Criteria and Age Limit
- How to Attend the Walk-In Interview — Step-by-Step
- Documents Required
- CSIR NPL vs Other Government Science Jobs 2026
- Pros and Cons of CSIR NPL Contractual Jobs
- Important Terms Related to CSIR NPL Recruitment
- Important Dates and Timeline
- Important Links
- Conclusion
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is CSIR NPL and Why This Recruitment Matters in 2026?
CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) is India’s National Metrology Institute (NMI) — the country’s premier scientific institution responsible for maintaining national standards of measurement under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Located in New Delhi, CSIR-NPL operates under India’s Ministry of Science and Technology and is internationally recognized for its work in quantum metrology, materials science, air quality monitoring, and photonics.
The CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026 under Advertisement No. Rectt./04/2026 offers 41 contractual project positions across disciplines including Chemistry, Physics, Electronics, Computer Science, Environmental Science, and Mechanical Engineering. Unlike permanent government jobs, these are time-bound, externally funded project roles — but they offer excellent research exposure, competitive stipends, and potential for PhD registration.
For science graduates seeking hands-on research experience in India’s top national laboratory, this is one of the best opportunities available in October 2026. All positions are filled through a Walk-In Interview — no online application or examination required.
Who Should Apply for CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026?
- 🎓 MSc Chemistry / Analytical Chemistry / Organic Chemistry graduates with 2+ years of R&D lab experience (Post Code 1.0)
- 🔬 BSc PCM / Diploma in Chemical Engineering holders looking for entry-level lab assistant positions (Post Codes 2.0, 3.0, 6.0)
- ⚗️ MSc Chemistry or BTech Chemical Engineering candidates with NET/GATE seeking SRF fellowship with Rs.42,000/month (Post Code 4.0)
- 🏛️ PhD holders in Chemistry or Physics eligible for Research Associate and Project Scientist roles up to Rs.58,000/month (Post Codes 5.0, 20.0, 23.0)
- 💻 BTech/MTech Computer Science graduates with 2+ years experience for software, ML, and web development roles (Post Codes 16.0, 17.0)
- 🌬️ MSc Environmental Science graduates with NET/GATE for JRF positions in air quality monitoring (Post Code 7.0)
- ⚡ BTech/BE Electronics, ECE, or Electrical graduates for metrology, automation, and biomedical calibration roles (Post Codes 10.0, 11.0, 12.0, 24.0)
- 🔭 MSc Physics graduates for quantum standards, nanotechnology, solar PV, terahertz, and IoT monitoring projects (Post Codes 18.0, 21.0, 22.0, 25.0, 29.0–36.0)
- 📡 Science communicators with Masters in Physics and 3+ years outreach experience for CSIR Jigyasa Project Senior PAT roles (Post Codes 15.0, 26.0)
- 🇮🇳 Indian citizens under 50 years of age who have NOT completed 6 cumulative years as CSIR project staff across any lab
CSIR NPL 2026 Salary and Stipend — Post-Wise Breakdown
All positions at CSIR NPL 2026 are contractual and the monthly payment is called a “Stipend” — there is no increment. Stipend amounts depend on post category and whether the candidate holds NET/GATE qualification. HRA is paid in addition to the base stipend as per CSIR norms.
| Post Category | Stipend (NET/GATE Qualified) | Stipend (Others) | HRA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project Assistant-I (SSC/10th+ITI) | Rs.18,000 | Rs.18,000 | +HRA |
| Project Technical Support-I | Rs.18,000 | Rs.18,000 | +HRA |
| Project Assistant-II (BSc/Diploma) | Rs.20,000 | Rs.20,000 | +HRA |
| Project Associate-I (BE/MSc) | Rs.31,000 | Rs.25,000 | +HRA |
| Project Associate-I (Special cases) | Rs.37,000 | Rs.30,000 | +HRA |
| Project Associate-II (BTech+2yr exp) | Rs.35,000 | Rs.28,000 | +HRA |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Rs.37,000 | N/A (NET/GATE mandatory) | +HRA |
| Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | Rs.42,000 | N/A (NET/GATE mandatory) | +HRA |
| Senior PAT | Rs.42,000 | Rs.42,000 | +HRA |
| Project Scientist-I / Research Associate-I | Rs.56,000–Rs.58,000 | Rs.56,000–Rs.58,000 | +HRA |
Highest Stipend: Rs.58,000 + HRA for Research Associate-I (Post Code 5.0 — PhD in Chemistry) and Project Scientist-I (Post Codes 20.0, 23.0 — PhD in Physics with 4 years experience).
Candidates who hold CSIR-UGC NET (including Lectureship/Assistant Professorship), GATE, or equivalent national-level examinations conducted by DBT/DST are eligible for significantly higher stipends — up to Rs.6,000–Rs.12,000 more per month compared to non-qualified candidates. If you haven’t appeared for these exams yet, register for the next available NET/GATE cycle before attending walk-in interviews at CSIR labs.
CSIR NPL 2026 — Complete Post-Wise Vacancy Details
CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026 has 36 post codes covering 41 total positions across two walk-in interview days. Day 1 (21 October 2026) covers post codes 1.0 to 17.0, and Day 2 (22 October 2026) covers post codes 18.0 to 36.0.
| Post Code | Post Name | Vacancies | Essential Qualification | Monthly Stipend | Max Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | Project Associate-II | 1 | MSc Chemistry + 2 yrs HPLC/GC-MS experience | Rs.28,000+HRA | 35 |
| 2.0 | Project Assistant-II | 1 | BSc PCM / Diploma Chemical Engineering | Rs.20,000+HRA | 35 |
| 3.0 | Project Assistant-II | 2 | BSc Chemistry / Diploma Chemical Engineering | Rs.20,000+HRA | 35 |
| 4.0 | Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | 1 | MSc Chemistry or BTech Chemical Engg + NET/GATE + 2 yr research exp | Rs.42,000+HRA | 32 |
| 5.0 | Research Associate-I | 1 | PhD in Chemistry | Rs.58,000+HRA | 35 |
| 6.0 | Project Assistant-II | 1 | BSc Chemistry / Diploma Chemical Engineering | Rs.20,000+HRA | 35 |
| 7.0 | Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 2 | MSc Environmental Science + NET/GATE | Rs.37,000+HRA | 28 |
| 8.0 | Project Research Scientist-I | 1 | PG in Environmental/Atmospheric Science or PhD | Rs.56,000+HRA | 35 |
| 9.0 | Project Technical Support-I | 2 | 3-yr Graduate in Env. Science/Physics/Chemistry + 1 yr exp | Rs.18,000+HRA | 28 |
| 10.0 | Project Associate-I | 2 | BE/BTech Electronics/Instrumentation/Biotechnology/Biomedical | Rs.31,000 or Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 11.0 | Project Associate-II | 1 | BTech Electronics/ECE + 2 yrs R&D exp | Rs.28,000+HRA | 35 |
| 12.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | BE/BTech Electronics/Electrical | Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 13.0 | Project Associate-II | 1 | BTech/BE Mechanical + 2 yrs R&D exp | Rs.28,000+HRA | 35 |
| 14.0 | Project Assistant-I | 1 | SSC PCM / 10th + ITI (Electrical) | Rs.18,000+HRA | 35 |
| 15.0 | Senior PAT | 1 | BE/BTech Computer Science/IT + 3 yrs R&D exp | Rs.42,000+HRA | 40 |
| 16.0 | Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | 1 | MTech CSE/IT/ECE/EE or BTech CSE/MCA + NET/GATE + 2 yr research exp | Rs.42,000+HRA | 32 |
| 17.0 | Project Associate-II | 1 | BE/BTech CSE/IT or MSc CS/IT + 2 yrs R&D exp | Rs.35,000 or Rs.28,000+HRA | 35 |
| 18.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | MSc Physics | Rs.31,000 or Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 19.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | MSc Physics/Electronics | Rs.37,000 or Rs.30,000+HRA | 50 |
| 20.0 | Project Scientist-I | 1 | PhD in Physics/Electronics | Rs.56,000+HRA | 35 |
| 21.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | MSc Physics/Electronics | Rs.31,000 or Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 22.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | MSc Physics/Electronics | Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 23.0 | Project Scientist-I | 1 | PhD in Physics + 4 yrs R&D exp | Rs.56,000+HRA | 35 |
| 24.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | MSc Physics/Electronics | Rs.31,000 or Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 25.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | MSc Physics/Material Science | Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 26.0 | Senior PAT | 1 | Masters/Integrated Masters in Physics + 3 yrs exp | Rs.42,000+HRA | 40 |
| 27.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | Masters/Integrated Masters in Physics | Rs.31,000 or Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 28.0 | Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 2 | MSc Physics + NET/GATE | Rs.37,000+HRA | 28 |
| 29.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | Masters/Integrated Masters in Physics or BTech Nanotechnology | Rs.31,000 or Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 30.0 | Senior PAT | 1 | PhD in Physics/Optics/Nanotechnology/Material Science | Rs.42,000+HRA | 40 |
| 31.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | Masters/Integrated Masters in Physics or BTech Nanotechnology | Rs.31,000 or Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 32.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | MSc Physics/Electronics/Material Science | Rs.37,000 or Rs.30,000+HRA | 50 |
| 33.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | MSc Physics/Electronics/Material Science | Rs.37,000 or Rs.30,000+HRA | 50 |
| 34.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | Masters/Integrated Masters in Physics/Applied Physics | Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 35.0 | Project Associate-I | 1 | MSc Physics/Electronics/Instrumentation or BTech Electrical/Electronics | Rs.31,000 or Rs.25,000+HRA | 35 |
| 36.0 | Project Associate-II | 1 | MSc Physics/Applied Physics/Electronics or BTech Electronics + 2 yrs exp or MTech Photonics/Laser | Rs.35,000 or Rs.28,000+HRA | 35 |
CSIR NPL 2026 Eligibility Criteria — Qualification, Age Limit and Conditions
Before attending the CSIR NPL walk-in interview 2026, every candidate must verify they meet all eligibility requirements. Incomplete eligibility will result in rejection at the registration desk.
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India
- Qualification: Final result must be declared — Result awaited, final semester appearing, or PhD submitted candidates are NOT eligible
- Experience: Post-qualification experience only; experience during degree period does not count
- CSIR Project Tenure Rule: Candidates who have already served as CSIR project staff for 6 or more cumulative years (across all CSIR labs) are NOT eligible. Total tenure including the new engagement cannot exceed 6 years
- NOC Requirement: Candidates currently serving in any CSIR lab project must bring a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current Principal Investigator
- Maximum Posts Per Candidate: A candidate may apply for a maximum of 2 posts; separate applications needed for each post code
Age Limit — Category-Wise Relaxation for CSIR NPL 2026
| Post Category | General Max Age | SC/ST/OBC/PwBD/Women | Special Posts (Post Codes 19, 32, 33) |
|---|---|---|---|
| JRF (Junior Research Fellow) | 28 years | As per GOI Rules | — |
| SRF (Senior Research Fellow) | 32 years | As per GOI Rules | — |
| Project Associate-I / II (Standard) | 35 years | As per GOI Rules | — |
| Research Associate-I / Project Scientist-I | 35 years | As per GOI Rules | — |
| Senior PAT | 40 years | As per GOI Rules | — |
| Project Associate-I (Post Codes 19, 32, 33) | 50 years | As per GOI Rules | Relaxed to 50 |
How to Attend CSIR NPL Walk-In Interview 2026 — Step-by-Step Process
- Download the Official Notification: Read Advertisement No. Rectt./04/2026 from nplindia.in and check your eligibility for the desired post code(s). Download and print the official application form from the CSIR-NPL website.
- Fill the Application Form: Fill the application completely, including marks from secondary examination onwards, experience details, and NET/GATE certificate details. Paste one recent passport-size colour photograph. Prepare one set for each post code if applying for two posts.
- Prepare Your Documents: Arrange original certificates and self-attested photocopies of all documents from Class 10 onwards — marksheets, degree certificates, experience letters, NET/GATE certificate, caste/PwBD certificate (if applicable), and NOC from current PI (if serving in any CSIR lab).
- Arrive at the Venue on Time: Reach the Auditorium, CSIR-NPL, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi – 110012 between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Candidates arriving after 10:00 AM will NOT be entertained under any circumstances. Day 1 (21 Oct) — Post Codes 1.0–17.0; Day 2 (22 Oct) — Post Codes 18.0–36.0.
- Register at the Venue: Submit the filled application form at the registration desk along with all original documents for verification. If any original document is missing, you will not be allowed to register. Candidates may answer the interview in Hindi if preferred.
- Attend the Walk-In Interview: Face the selection committee. If a large number of candidates register, a screening committee will shortlist candidates based on academic qualifications and/or experience before the final interview. Shortlisting criteria are defined by the screening committee.
- Wait for Result and Offer Letter: No interim communication is entertained. Results are announced on the official CSIR-NPL website. Successful candidates receive an offer letter. The engagement is initially for a short duration (6 months or 1 year) extendable based on PI recommendation and fund availability.
Documents Required for CSIR NPL Walk-In Interview 2026
- Duly filled and signed Application Form (downloaded from CSIR-NPL official website)
- Recent passport-size colour photograph (affixed on application)
- Class 10 (SSC) certificate and marksheet — original + self-attested photocopy
- Class 12 (HSC) certificate and marksheet (where applicable) — original + self-attested photocopy
- All graduation and post-graduation degree certificates and marksheets — original + self-attested photocopy
- PhD degree certificate (for Research Associate and Project Scientist posts) — original + self-attested photocopy
- CSIR-UGC NET / GATE certificate (mandatory for JRF, SRF; significantly increases stipend for other posts) — original + photocopy
- Experience certificate(s) from previous employer(s) — original + self-attested photocopy
- SC/ST/OBC Non-Creamy Layer/PwBD certificate issued by competent authority (if claiming reservation) — must be valid and issued before interview date
- OBC candidates must additionally carry Family Income Statement for the previous year from all sources
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current Principal Investigator — mandatory if currently serving as project staff in any CSIR lab
- CGPA/GPA to percentage conversion formula copy (if final certificates show CGPA) — university formula required
CSIR NPL vs Other Government Science Research Jobs 2026
| Parameter | CSIR NPL Project Roles 2026 | DRDO JRF/SRF 2026 | ISRO Research Scientist 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nature of Role | Contractual / Temporary Project | Contractual Fellowship | Permanent Government Job |
| Selection Process | Walk-In Interview | Written Test + Interview | ICRB Exam + Interview |
| Stipend / Salary | Rs.18,000–Rs.58,000 + HRA | Rs.37,000–Rs.43,800 + HRA | Rs.56,100–Rs.1,77,500 (Level 10) |
| Eligibility | BSc to PhD based on post | ME/MTech or BE/BTech + GATE | ME/MTech (First Class) |
| Tenure | Project-based (6 months–5 yrs) | 2 years extendable | Permanent (Probation 2 years) |
| PhD Opportunity | Yes (if project ≥ 3 years) | Yes | Partial (sponsored) |
| Total Vacancies (Oct 2026) | 41 positions | Varies by notification | Limited (annual) |
| Age Limit | 28–50 years (post-wise) | 28 years (JRF) / 35 years (SRF) | 35 years |
| Apply Mode | Walk-In (no online application) | Online Application | Online Application |
| Best For | Quick entry into CSIR research | Research fellowship in defence | Permanent science career |
CSIR NPL 2026 walk-in interview is the fastest path to get inside India’s national metrology institution. For PhD holders and NET/GATE-qualified candidates, the Rs.42,000–Rs.58,000 + HRA stipend is genuinely competitive, combined with world-class lab infrastructure and potential PhD registration. For fresh BSc/MSc graduates without experience, it builds résumé depth rapidly. However, candidates seeking long-term job security should simultaneously prepare for CSIR Scientist/Engineer permanent recruitment examinations.
Pros and Cons of CSIR NPL 2026 Contractual Positions
Advantages of CSIR NPL Project Roles
- ✅ Immediate entry — Walk-in interview means no exam, no long wait; selected candidates can join within weeks
- ✅ Competitive stipends — Rs.42,000–Rs.58,000 + HRA for PhD/Senior positions is on par with many permanent government jobs
- ✅ World-class research infrastructure — Access to CSIR-NPL’s internationally accredited metrology labs, quantum standards facilities, and advanced characterization equipment
- ✅ PhD registration opportunity — Project staff in projects of ≥ 3 years duration may register for PhD without financial obligation to CSIR
- ✅ Diverse disciplines — 36 post codes across Chemistry, Physics, Electronics, CS, Environmental Science, Mechanical, and Science Communication
- ✅ Maternity and Paternity leave — 180 days maternity leave (women) and 15 days paternity leave (men) with up to 2 surviving children
Disadvantages and Limitations
- ❌ No permanency — Contractual role with no job security beyond the project duration; terminated automatically when project ends
- ❌ No increment — Stipend is fixed for the entire engagement period; no annual hike or DA revision
- ❌ 6-year cumulative cap — Cannot serve as CSIR project staff across all labs for more than 6 years total in a lifetime
- ❌ No pension or PF — No retirement benefits applicable to contractual/project staff as per current CSIR norms
Important Terms Related to CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026
- CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research): India’s largest research and development organisation, operating under the Ministry of Science and Technology with 37 national laboratories — stipends and service rules governed by CSIR headquarters guidelines
- CSIR-NPL (National Physical Laboratory): India’s National Metrology Institute (NMI) responsible for establishing and maintaining national standards of physical measurement; located at Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi
- BND (Bharatiya Nirdeshak Dravya): India’s nationally certified reference materials used for quality assurance and compliance — several CSIR NPL 2026 projects focus on developing BNDs for AYUSH products, battery materials, cement, and precious metals
- NET/GATE: CSIR-UGC National Eligibility Test and Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering — qualifying these exams significantly increases stipend eligibility and is mandatory for JRF and SRF positions
- JRF (Junior Research Fellow): Entry-level research fellowship requiring MSc + NET/GATE; stipend Rs.37,000 + HRA; typical duration 2 years
- SRF (Senior Research Fellow): Advanced research fellowship requiring MSc/BTech + NET/GATE + 2 years experience; stipend Rs.42,000 + HRA
- Research Associate-I (RA-I): Post-doctoral position requiring PhD; highest stipend at Rs.58,000 + HRA; equivalent to early-career scientist level
- Project Associate (PA-I/PA-II): Engineering/science graduate-level project positions; PA-I for BE/MSc level, PA-II requires additional 2 years R&D experience
- MIST (Metrology for Innovation in Science and Technology): CSIR-NPL’s flagship project covering quantum standards, electrical metrology, optical standards, and mechanical metrology — multiple post codes fall under this project
- CSIR Jigyasa: CSIR’s school-industry-research interface programme focused on science outreach, student engagement, and demonstration laboratory development — Post Codes 14, 15, 26, 27 fall under this project with stipends up to Rs.42,000
Important Dates — CSIR NPL Walk-In Interview 2026 Timeline
| Event | Date / Details |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Released | October 2026 (Advt. No. Rectt./04/2026) |
| Walk-In Interview Day 1 (Post Codes 1.0–17.0) | 21 October 2026 |
| Walk-In Interview Day 2 (Post Codes 18.0–36.0) | 22 October 2026 |
| Reporting Time (Both Days) | 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM — strict cutoff |
| Project End Dates (varies by post) | 31.03.2027 to 31.03.2031 (post-wise) |
| Maximum Engagement Duration | 6 cumulative years across all CSIR labs |
Important Links — CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026
| Link Description | URL |
|---|---|
| Official CSIR-NPL Website | nplindia.in |
| CSIR-NPL Recruitments Page | nplindia.in/recruitments |
| CSIR Official Website | csir.res.in |
| Download Notification (Telegram) | t.me/agrijob_in/1123 |
| Ministry of Science and Technology | dst.gov.in |
| CSIR-UGC NET Official Portal | csirnet.nta.ac.in |
| GATE Official Website | gate2026.iitg.ac.in |
| More Government Science Jobs 2026 | AgriJob.in — Government Jobs 2026 |
Conclusion — Should You Attend CSIR NPL Walk-In Interview 2026?
CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026 is a rare opportunity to enter India’s premier national metrology laboratory through a straightforward walk-in interview — no written exam, no lengthy online application process. With 41 positions across disciplines from Chemistry to Quantum Physics to AI-based deep-sea exploration, there is a post for nearly every science and engineering graduate. Stipends of Rs.18,000 to Rs.58,000 + HRA make these roles financially viable, especially for NET/GATE-qualified candidates seeking research careers without the wait of competitive exams.
If you are a science or engineering graduate meeting the essential qualifications for any post code, attend the walk-in interview on 21 October 2026 (Post Codes 1–17) or 22 October 2026 (Post Codes 18–36) at CSIR-NPL, New Delhi. Report strictly between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM with all original documents and a completed application form. Bookmark this page — any corrigendum or result update from CSIR-NPL will be covered here.
- CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026 offers 41 project-based posts via Walk-In Interview on 21–22 October 2026 in New Delhi.
- Monthly stipends range from Rs.18,000 to Rs.58,000 + HRA — PhD holders and NET/GATE-qualified candidates earn the highest amounts.
- No online application needed — carry filled application form, all original documents, and reach the venue by 10:00 AM sharp.
- Total CSIR project tenure across all labs cannot exceed 6 cumulative years; currently serving CSIR staff need NOC from PI.
- 36 post codes cover Chemistry, Physics, Electronics, CSE, Environmental Science, Mechanical, and Science Communication disciplines.
- Download the official notification from CSIR-NPL website or from our Telegram channel and apply for up to 2 post codes.
Frequently Asked Questions About CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026
What is the last date to apply for CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026?
CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026 (Advertisement No. Rectt./04/2026) does not require an online application. Candidates must attend the Walk-In Interview directly — Day 1 on 21 October 2026 for Post Codes 1.0 to 17.0, and Day 2 on 22 October 2026 for Post Codes 18.0 to 36.0. Registration closes at 10:00 AM on the respective day; candidates arriving later will not be permitted to register.
How many posts are available in CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026?
CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026 has 41 total positions across 36 post codes (Post Code 1.0 to 36.0). The posts include Project Associate-I and II, Project Assistant-I and II, Junior Research Fellow, Senior Research Fellow, Research Associate-I, Project Scientist-I, Project Research Scientist-I, Senior PAT, and Project Technical Support-I.
What is the salary in CSIR NPL 2026?
CSIR NPL 2026 pays a monthly stipend (not salary) ranging from Rs.18,000 to Rs.58,000 plus House Rent Allowance (HRA). The highest stipend of Rs.58,000 + HRA is for Research Associate-I (Post Code 5.0, PhD in Chemistry). NET/GATE-qualified candidates receive higher stipends than non-qualified candidates for the same post — for example, Project Associate-I earns Rs.31,000 + HRA (NET/GATE) versus Rs.25,000 + HRA (others).
Is CSIR NPL project staff appointment a permanent government job?
No. CSIR NPL project positions are purely temporary and contractual in nature. They are funded under externally sponsored projects for a fixed tenure and do not confer any right or claim for regular/permanent appointment in CSIR or NPL under any circumstances. The total CSIR project service across all labs cannot exceed 6 years in a lifetime.
Can I apply for CSIR NPL if my result is awaited or I appeared in the final semester?
No. Only candidates whose final result has been declared are eligible to apply. Result awaited, final semester appeared/appearing, and PhD-submitted (but not awarded) candidates are explicitly ineligible for all post codes in CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026. You must possess the complete and declared qualification before the walk-in interview date.
Is NET/GATE compulsory for all CSIR NPL 2026 posts?
NET/GATE is mandatory for JRF (Post Codes 7.0 and 28.0) and SRF (Post Codes 4.0 and 16.0) positions — non-NET/GATE candidates cannot apply for these posts. For Project Associate-I and II posts, NET/GATE is not compulsory but results in a significantly higher stipend (Rs.31,000 vs Rs.25,000 for PA-I; Rs.35,000 vs Rs.28,000 for PA-II).
Can I apply for two post codes in CSIR NPL 2026?
Yes. A candidate may apply for a maximum of 2 post codes. A separate application form must be submitted for each post code. If the 2 posts fall on different days (Day 1 and Day 2), the candidate must attend on both respective days. Both posts applied for must independently meet the essential qualification and experience criteria.
What is the venue for CSIR NPL Walk-In Interview 2026?
The Walk-In Interview for CSIR NPL Recruitment 2026 will be held in the Auditorium of CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K. S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi – 110012. Candidates must report between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on the respective day. No candidate will be entertained after 10:00 AM under any circumstances. No travel allowance (TA) is paid for attending the interview.
Can I register for PhD while working as project staff at CSIR NPL?
Yes, subject to conditions. Project staff may be allowed to register for a PhD as per the institute’s policy if the project duration is at least 3 years, all requirements of the concerned university are fulfilled, and the project work is not affected. The PhD registration is without any financial obligation to CSIR or the project. The project tenure will not be extended solely on the grounds that the PhD is not yet completed.
What happens if I’m currently serving in another CSIR project?
Candidates currently engaged as project staff in any CSIR lab — including CSIR-NPL — can attend the walk-in interview only after submitting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current Principal Investigator (PI). If selected for a new project, the candidate must submit a No Demand Certificate, No Dues Certificate, and resignation from the previous project before joining the new one. The combined tenure across all CSIR projects must not exceed 6 years.
Last Updated: October 2026 | Source: CSIR-NPL Advertisement No. Rectt./04/2026 | This page is updated whenever CSIR-NPL releases a corrigendum or result. Bookmark for the latest information.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only, compiled from the official CSIR-NPL advertisement. Candidates must verify all details from the official notification at nplindia.in before attending the walk-in interview. Agrijob.in is not responsible for any discrepancy between this post and the official notification.
