ICAR CRRI student internship 2026 has been announced by the ICAR – Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack (Odisha) under Advertisement No. 35/Student Internship/2026-27. This internship is offered under the ANRF (DST-SERB) Grant Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) program for one position of student intern working on a cutting-edge blast resistance gene research project in rice genomics. If you hold an M.Sc. in Biotechnology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Botany, or Life Science, this is your opportunity to gain hands-on research experience at one of India’s premier rice research institutions.
This guide covers everything: fellowship amount, eligibility criteria, job description, walk-in interview date, documents required, and step-by-step instructions to attend the interview.
ICAR CRRI is offering 1 student internship for 2 months under the DST-SERB SSR program with a monthly fellowship of Rs.5,000 (consolidated). The walk-in interview is on 8 October 2026 at 10:00 AM at ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack. Eligible candidates must hold an M.Sc. in Biotechnology / Ag. Biotechnology / Botany / Life Science.
- Organisation: ICAR – Central Rice Research Institute (ICAR-CRRI), Cuttack
- Advertisement No.: 35/Student Internship/2026-27
- Program: ANRF (DST-SERB) Grant – Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR)
- Project Title: Map-based cloning and functional characterization of Pi-42 — a novel blast resistance gene from rice genotype ‘DHR-9’ (EAP-418)
- Number of Positions: 01 (One)
- Duration: 2 months from the date of joining
- Monthly Fellowship: Rs. 5,000/- p.m. (consolidated)
- Eligibility: M.Sc. Biotechnology / Ag. Biotechnology / Botany / Life Science
- Interview Date: 08 October 2026 at 10:00 AM
- Interview Venue: ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack (Odisha) – 753 006
- Mode of Selection: Walk-in Interview (academic profile + research interest)
- Official Website: icar-crri.in
📋 Table of Contents
- What is the ICAR CRRI Student Internship 2026?
- Who Should Apply for This Internship?
- Fellowship Details – Rs.5,000/Month Explained
- Eligibility Criteria & Requirements
- How to Attend the Walk-in Interview – Step-by-Step Process
- ICAR Internship vs JRF – Which Is Better for You?
- Pros and Cons of the ICAR CRRI Internship
- Important Terms Related to ICAR CRRI Internship 2026
- Important Dates & Timeline
- Important Links
- Conclusion
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the ICAR CRRI Student Internship 2026?
The ICAR CRRI student internship 2026 is a short-term research training position offered by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Central Rice Research Institute (ICAR-CRRI), Cuttack, Odisha. It is funded under the ANRF (DST-SERB) Grant Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) program, which is specifically designed to provide postgraduate science students hands-on exposure to active government-funded research projects.
ICAR-CRRI, established in 1946 and located in Cuttack, Odisha, is India’s oldest and most prestigious rice research institution. It functions under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and focuses on improving rice productivity, developing blast-resistant varieties, and advancing genomics research in rice crops. Interns placed here work directly under senior scientists on nationally significant research programs.
The current internship is tied to Project EAP-418: “Map-based cloning and functional characterization of Pi-42; a novel blast resistance gene from rice genotype ‘DHR-9′”. Rice blast, caused by the fungal pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae, is the single most destructive disease in rice globally, causing yield losses of 10–30% annually. Identifying and characterizing resistance genes like Pi-42 from indigenous rice genotypes is critical for developing durable blast-resistant varieties across India.
The intern will receive training in plant tissue culture techniques and genome editing in plants — two of the most in-demand skills in agricultural biotechnology today. This internship is a stepping stone for candidates aspiring to pursue PhD research, JRF positions, or careers in agricultural biotech and government research institutions.
Who Should Apply for This ICAR CRRI Internship 2026?
- 🎓 M.Sc. Biotechnology graduates who completed their degree within the last 2 years and want hands-on molecular biology laboratory experience before applying for JRF or PhD programs.
- 🌾 M.Sc. Agricultural Biotechnology students interested in rice genomics, crop improvement, and DST-SERB-funded research projects.
- 🔬 M.Sc. Botany graduates looking for practical exposure to plant tissue culture and genome editing techniques in a premier ICAR institute.
- 🧬 M.Sc. Life Science graduates who want to strengthen their research profile with an ICAR-certified internship certificate for competitive examinations like CSIR-NET, DBT-JRF, or GATE.
- 📚 PhD aspirants who want to build their research portfolio and gain a letter of recommendation from ICAR-CRRI scientists before applying for doctoral programs.
- 🏛️ Candidates from SC, ST, and OBC categories who are eligible for age relaxation as per Government of India norms and want government research exposure.
- 💡 Students interested in genome editing and CRISPR research in plants — this project specifically involves genome editing techniques for blast resistance gene characterization.
- 📝 Candidates preparing for ICAR-JRF, DBT-JRF, or CSIR-NET who want real research experience to improve their selection chances in these competitive examinations.
Fellowship Details – Rs.5,000 Per Month Under DST-SERB SSR Program
The selected intern will receive a consolidated monthly fellowship of Rs.5,000 per month for the entire 2-month duration. This fellowship is disbursed under the Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) mandate of the DST-SERB (now ANRF) program, which requires funded research projects to provide training opportunities to postgraduate students from across India.
| Fellowship Component | Amount / Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fellowship (Consolidated) | Rs. 5,000/- |
| Duration | 2 months (from date of joining) |
| Total Fellowship (2 months) | Rs. 10,000/- |
| Type | Consolidated (no HRA or DA component) |
| Funding Source | ANRF (DST-SERB) Grant – EAP-418 |
| TA/DA for Interview | Not admissible |
| Right to Absorption in ICAR | No — purely temporary position |
Note that this fellowship is not comparable to JRF stipends (which start at Rs.37,000/month at ICAR-CRRI). However, the internship is not primarily a financial opportunity — its value lies in the research training, lab skills, and ICAR institute certification that significantly improve a candidate’s competitive profile for higher fellowships and PhD admissions.
Candidates must make their own arrangements for accommodation during the 2-month internship period. No hostel or institutional stay is provided under this program. Cuttack city has affordable paying guest (PG) accommodation options available near the ICAR-CRRI campus.
Eligibility Criteria & Requirements for ICAR CRRI Internship
Before attending the walk-in interview, ensure you meet ALL of the following eligibility conditions as specified in Advertisement No. 35/Student Internship/2026-27:
Educational Qualification
- M.Sc. in Biotechnology
- M.Sc. in Agricultural Biotechnology (Ag. Biotechnology)
- M.Sc. in Botany
- M.Sc. in Life Science
Preference Note: Candidates who have completed their Master’s degree within the last two years from the date of interview (i.e., on or after October 2024) will be given preference in selection.
Category-Wise Age Relaxation
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | As per standard norms |
| SC (Scheduled Caste) | Relaxation as per Govt. of India norms |
| ST (Scheduled Tribe) | Relaxation as per Govt. of India norms |
| OBC (Other Backward Classes) | Relaxation as per Govt. of India norms |
Documents Required at the Walk-in Interview
- ✅ One recent passport-size photograph
- ✅ Original educational certificates from Matriculation (10th) onwards
- ✅ Xerox copies of all educational certificates
- ✅ Experience certificate in relevant subject (if applicable)
- ✅ Biodata form (downloaded from icar-crri.in — available for free)
- ✅ No Objection Certificate (NOC) if currently employed or pursuing studies at any institution
- ✅ Documents available on DigiLocker are also accepted (along with Xerox copies)
No TA or DA will be paid for appearing in the walk-in interview. Candidates must arrange their own travel and stay. Canvassing in any form will result in immediate disqualification. Candidates who arrive after the scheduled reporting time will not be entertained under any circumstances.
How to Attend the ICAR CRRI Walk-in Interview – Step-by-Step Process
- Download the Biodata Form: Visit the official ICAR-CRRI website at icar-crri.in and download the official biodata form from the Walk-in Interview section or the Downloads page. This form is mandatory — do not bring a self-prepared CV only.
- Fill the Biodata Form Completely: Fill the biodata form clearly in black or blue ink. Ensure all academic details, experience, and contact information are accurate. Attach a recent passport-size photograph in the space provided on the form.
- Collect All Required Documents: Gather original educational certificates from Class 10 onwards, along with one self-attested Xerox copy of each. If currently employed or studying, obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer or institution.
- Obtain an NOC (if applicable): If you are currently enrolled in a college/university or employed in any organization, you MUST carry a No Objection Certificate signed by the head of your institution or employer. Without it, you cannot appear in the interview.
- Reach ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack Before 10:00 AM: The walk-in interview is on 8 October 2026. Reach the ICAR-CRRI campus in Cuttack, Odisha before 10:00 AM. No candidate will be entertained after the scheduled reporting time — arrive at least 30 minutes early.
- Register at the Interview Desk: Upon arrival, submit your filled biodata form and documents at the registration desk. You will be issued a token number for the interview sequence.
- Attend the Interview: Students will be selected based on their academic profile and research interest. Be prepared to discuss your M.Sc. thesis topic, any research experience, and your interest in plant tissue culture, genome editing, and rice genomics.
- Await Selection Communication: Selected candidates will be intimated by email regarding their selection. If shortlisted, you will receive an offer letter specifying your joining date and terms of engagement.
Before attending the interview, prepare a 2-minute summary of your M.Sc. research project and how it relates to plant biotechnology, molecular biology, or rice pathology. Scientists at ICAR-CRRI look for candidates with genuine research curiosity and lab skills. Mentioning familiarity with techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, plant transformation, or tissue culture protocols will significantly improve your selection chances.
ICAR CRRI Student Internship vs JRF – Which Is Better for MSc Candidates?
| Comparison Parameter | Student Internship (SSR) | JRF at ICAR-CRRI |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fellowship | Rs. 5,000/- (consolidated) | Rs. 37,000/- + 20% HRA |
| Duration | 2 months only | Up to 5 years (project-based) |
| Eligibility | M.Sc. in relevant discipline | M.Sc. with NET/GATE qualification |
| Selection Process | Walk-in interview (no exam) | Written test + interview |
| Primary Benefit | Research training & ICAR certification | Stipend + career in research |
| Accommodation | Self-arranged | Self-arranged (in most cases) |
| Right to Absorption | No | No (unless converted to permanent) |
| PhD Eligibility | No (internship only) | Yes (can pursue PhD simultaneously) |
| Best For | Recent MSc graduates building research profile | NET/GATE qualified candidates seeking long-term research career |
If you have already qualified CSIR-NET or GATE and are looking for a long-term research career with a livable stipend, pursue JRF positions at ICAR-CRRI. However, if you are a fresh MSc graduate who has not yet appeared for competitive exams, this internship is an excellent way to gain practical research experience, build your profile, and prepare more effectively for NET/JRF examinations. The ICAR-CRRI name on your CV carries significant weight in the life sciences job market.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the ICAR CRRI Student Internship 2026
Advantages (Pros)
- ✅ Premier ICAR Institution: ICAR-CRRI is one of India’s oldest (est. 1946) and most respected agricultural research institutes — having this name on your CV is a significant career advantage.
- ✅ Cutting-Edge Research Project: Work on Project EAP-418, which involves map-based cloning and genome editing — skills directly applicable for PhD programs and biotech industry jobs.
- ✅ No Competitive Examination Required: Selection is based on academic profile and interview, making it accessible to recent MSc graduates who have not yet cleared CSIR-NET or GATE.
- ✅ DST-SERB ANRF Program Certification: Completion of an SSR program internship provides a government-recognized experience certificate that strengthens fellowship applications.
- ✅ SC/ST/OBC Age Relaxation: Reserved category candidates benefit from government-mandated age relaxation norms, broadening eligibility.
- ✅ Network Building: Two months of direct work with senior ICAR scientists opens doors for recommendations and future research collaborations.
Disadvantages (Cons)
- ❌ Very Low Fellowship: Rs.5,000/month is significantly below the cost of living in Cuttack (estimated Rs.8,000–Rs.12,000/month for accommodation and food), meaning candidates need personal financial support.
- ❌ No Accommodation Provided: Interns must arrange and self-fund their own stay — ICAR-CRRI does not provide hostel facilities for interns under this SSR program.
- ❌ Short Duration: 2 months limits the depth of research exposure compared to JRF or PhD programs, though it is sufficient to learn specific laboratory techniques.
- ❌ No Absorption Rights: Completion of this internship does not guarantee any permanent position or preferential selection in future ICAR recruitments.
Important Terms Related to ICAR CRRI Student Internship 2026
- ANRF (Anusandhan National Research Foundation): The apex body for funding scientific research in India, formerly DST-SERB, which funds Project EAP-418 under which this internship is offered.
- DST-SERB SSR (Scientific Social Responsibility): A government mandate requiring DST-SERB grant recipients to use part of their project funding to train postgraduate students from across India, creating the SSR internship program.
- Pi-42 Blast Resistance Gene: A novel disease-resistance gene identified from the indigenous rice genotype DHR-9. Rice blast disease caused by Magnaporthe oryzae destroys 10–30% of global rice yield annually — genes like Pi-42 are critical for breeding resistant varieties.
- Map-Based Cloning: A molecular genetics technique used to identify and isolate genes responsible for specific traits (like blast resistance) by mapping their chromosomal location — a key method used in Project EAP-418.
- Plant Tissue Culture: A laboratory technique for growing plant cells, tissues, or organs in sterile nutrient media under controlled conditions. One of the two core skills interns will be trained in.
- Genome Editing in Plants: Use of CRISPR-Cas9 and related technologies to make precise changes to plant DNA — a rapidly growing field with applications in crop improvement and food security.
- ICAR-CRRI Biodata Form: The official application form that must be downloaded from icar-crri.in and filled by candidates before appearing in the walk-in interview.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): A mandatory document from your current employer or educational institution if you are employed or studying at the time of the interview — without it, you cannot attend.
- EAP-418: The project code assigned to the blast resistance gene research project at ICAR-CRRI under which this internship is offered.
- Walk-in Interview: A selection process where eligible candidates appear directly on the specified date without prior written application — no prior registration is required except bringing the biodata form and documents.
Important Dates & Timeline – ICAR CRRI Internship 2026
| Event | Date / Details |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Released | October 2026 |
| Walk-in Interview Date | 08 October 2026 |
| Interview Time | 10:00 AM (sharp — no late entry) |
| Interview Venue | ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack, Odisha – 753 006 |
| Internship Duration | 2 months from date of joining |
| Monthly Fellowship | Rs. 5,000/- (consolidated) |
| Selection Intimation | By email after interview |
Important Links – ICAR CRRI Student Internship 2026
| Link | URL |
|---|---|
| Official ICAR-CRRI Website | icar-crri.in |
| ICAR-CRRI Walk-in Interview Page | icar-crri.in/walk-in-interview-3 |
| Download Official Notification PDF | Download via Agrijob Telegram Channel |
| ICAR Official Portal | icar.org.in |
| ANRF (DST-SERB) Official Website | anrf.gov.in |
| Agrijob.in – ICAR Jobs & Internships | agrijob.in |
Conclusion – ICAR CRRI Student Internship 2026
The ICAR CRRI student internship 2026 under the ANRF DST-SERB SSR program is a rare and valuable opportunity for M.Sc. graduates in Biotechnology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Botany, and Life Science to gain hands-on research training at India’s premier rice research institution. While the Rs.5,000/month fellowship is modest, the research exposure in plant tissue culture, genome editing, and blast resistance gene characterization at ICAR-CRRI is genuinely career-defining for candidates aiming for PhD programs or competitive research fellowships.
The walk-in interview is on 8 October 2026 at 10:00 AM at ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack. Download the biodata form from icar-crri.in, assemble your documents, and report well before the scheduled time. No late entries are permitted.
- ICAR-CRRI is offering 1 student internship under the ANRF (DST-SERB) SSR program (Advertisement No. 35/Student Internship/2026-27).
- Monthly fellowship is Rs.5,000/- consolidated for 2 months (total Rs.10,000) — no HRA or DA component.
- Eligibility: M.Sc. Biotechnology / Ag. Biotechnology / Botany / Life Science; preference to those who completed MSc in the last 2 years.
- Walk-in interview is on 8 October 2026 at 10:00 AM at ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack — bring biodata form + original documents + NOC if employed/studying.
- The project involves map-based cloning and genome editing of the Pi-42 blast resistance gene from rice genotype DHR-9 — highly relevant skills for PhD and biotech careers.
- Download the official notification from Agrijob Telegram or icar-crri.in and bookmark agrijob.in for more ICAR and agriculture research job alerts.
Frequently Asked Questions About ICAR CRRI Student Internship 2026
What is the ICAR CRRI student internship 2026?
The ICAR CRRI student internship 2026 is a 2-month paid research internship offered by ICAR – Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, under the ANRF (DST-SERB) Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) program. One position is available for M.Sc. graduates in Biotechnology, Ag. Biotechnology, Botany, or Life Science. The intern will work on Project EAP-418, focused on map-based cloning and functional characterization of the Pi-42 blast resistance gene in rice.
What is the monthly fellowship for this ICAR-CRRI internship?
The monthly fellowship for the ICAR CRRI student internship 2026 is Rs.5,000/- per month (consolidated) for a period of 2 months only. This is a fixed consolidated amount — no HRA, DA, or additional allowances are provided. The total fellowship for the complete 2-month duration is Rs.10,000/-.
Who is eligible for the ICAR CRRI internship 2026?
Candidates holding an M.Sc. degree in Biotechnology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Botany, or Life Science are eligible. Preference is given to candidates who completed their Master’s degree within the last 2 years (on or after October 2024). Candidates currently pursuing studies or employed at any institution must carry a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their institution or employer.
What is the walk-in interview date and venue for ICAR-CRRI internship 2026?
The walk-in interview for the ICAR CRRI student internship 2026 is scheduled on 8 October 2026 at 10:00 AM at ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack, Odisha – 753 006. No candidate will be entertained after the scheduled reporting time, so candidates are strongly advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before the interview begins.
How will candidates be selected for this ICAR-CRRI internship?
Selection is based on the candidate’s academic profile and research interest, assessed during the walk-in interview. In case a large number of candidates appear, a screening test may be conducted before the personal interview to shortlist candidates. Candidates with prior ICAR institute experience may be given preference. All selected candidates will be informed by email about their selection.
What documents do I need to carry to the ICAR CRRI walk-in interview?
Candidates must carry: (1) Filled biodata form downloaded from icar-crri.in, (2) one recent passport-size photograph, (3) original educational certificates from Class 10 (Matriculation) onwards, (4) Xerox copies of all certificates, (5) experience certificate if applicable, and (6) No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer or institution if currently employed or studying. Documents available on DigiLocker are also accepted along with physical Xerox copies.
Does this ICAR-CRRI internship lead to a permanent government job?
No. The ICAR CRRI student internship is purely a temporary engagement co-terminus with Project EAP-418. The intern’s service automatically terminates after 2 months or upon project completion, whichever is earlier. The candidate has no right to absorption in ICAR-CRRI or ICAR. However, the experience and certification significantly enhance a candidate’s profile for future ICAR JRF positions, PhD admissions, and competitive exams like CSIR-NET and DBT-JRF.
Is TA or DA reimbursed for attending the walk-in interview?
No. Travel Allowance (TA) and Daily Allowance (DA) for appearing in the ICAR-CRRI walk-in interview are not admissible. Candidates must arrange and fund their own travel to the interview venue in Cuttack, Odisha at their own expense.
What research skills will I learn during the ICAR CRRI internship?
The selected intern will receive hands-on training in two primary research areas: (1) Plant tissue culture — growing and manipulating plant cells and tissues under sterile laboratory conditions, and (2) Genome editing in plants — techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 used to make targeted modifications in plant DNA. Both are high-demand skills in agricultural biotechnology, pharmaceutical plant science, and crop improvement research globally.
Where can I download the official ICAR-CRRI internship notification PDF?
The official ICAR CRRI internship notification can be downloaded from the official website at icar-crri.in. You can also access the notification directly via the Agrijob Telegram channel for the fastest updates on ICAR and agriculture research jobs.
Last Updated: October 2026 | Source: ICAR-CRRI Official Notification, Advertisement No. 35/Student Internship/2026-27 | This guide is reviewed and updated regularly for accuracy. Bookmark this page for the latest ICAR internship and recruitment information.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. All salary figures, fellowship amounts, and eligibility criteria are sourced directly from the official ICAR-CRRI advertisement. Candidates are advised to verify the latest information from the official ICAR-CRRI website before appearing for the interview. Agrijob.in is not responsible for any discrepancy between this post and the official notification.
