CSIR-CIMFR Recruitment 2026: Career Guide & Vacancy Details

About CSIR-CIMFR Careers

🏛️ Organization Overview

The CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR) was formed through the strategic merger of the Central Mining Research Institute (CMRI) and the Central Fuel Research Institute (CFRI). Headquartered in Dhanbad, Jharkhand-the coal hub of India-it operates as a vital technical partner for the Ministry of Coal and major PSUs like Coal India Limited (CIL), NTPC, and ONGC.

CIMFR’s mandate covers the lifecycle of mineral resources, from underground mining technology and rock mechanics to fuel science and clean coal technologies. With regional centers in Ranchi, Bilaspur, Nagpur, Roorkee, and Raniganj, the institute maintains a pan-India presence. For 2026, CIMFR is realigning its workforce to support National Missions like "Atmanirbhar Bharat" in the energy sector, focusing on carbon capture, methane emission control, and advanced mine safety systems.

💼 Key Job Profiles (Evergreen Roles)

• Scientist (Level 11): The primary research cadre. Candidates usually require an M.E./M.Tech or Ph.D. in Mining, Chemical Engineering, or Applied Geology. Scientists focus on high-impact R&D, patent filing, and industrial consultancy.
• Technical Assistant / Officer: Specialized roles for B.Sc. or Diploma/Degree holders in Engineering. They manage the institute’s sophisticated analytical laboratories and field-testing equipment at mine sites.
• Project Associate / Project Assistant: Temporary, project-funded positions (often called "PAT-I" or "PAT-II"). These are excellent entry points for fresh graduates to gain R&D experience while preparing for permanent roles or Ph.D. programs.
• Section Officer / Assistant (Common Cadre): Administrative roles that manage the institute’s financial, human resource, and legal frameworks under the CSIR Combined Administrative Services.

💰 Salary & Employee Benefits

CSIR-CIMFR employees are entitled to salaries under the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC).

• Scientist Cadre: Starts at Scientist (Level 11) with a basic pay of ₹67,700 and can progress to Chief Scientist (Level 14) or Director (Level 15).
• Technical Cadre: Ranges from Technician (Level 2) to Principal Technical Officer (Level 13).
• Standard Perks: * Allowances: DA, HRA (as per Dhanbad's 'Y' city classification), and Transport Allowance.
  • R&D Benefits: Professional Development Allowance (PDA) for scientists to attend conferences.
  • Campus Facilities: Access to the CSIR residential colony, medical dispensaries, and institutional transport.
  • Social Security: Covered under the National Pension System (NPS), Gratuity, and Group Insurance.

🎯 Selection Process

Recruitment at CSIR-CIMFR follows a structured path based on the post category:

1. Scientific Posts: Applications are screened by a committee; shortlisted candidates are called for a personal interview by the Recruitment and Assessment Board (RAB).
2. Technical Posts: Typically involve a two-tier process:
   • Tier 1: Trade Test / Skill Test (Qualifying nature).
   • Tier 2: Competitive Written Examination (OMR/CBT based) focusing on subject knowledge.
3. Project-Based Roles: Often conducted via "Walk-in-Interviews" or virtual interviews based on immediate project requirements.

💡 Expert Tips (How to Crack CSIR-CIMFR Exams)

• Hone Your Technical Fundamentals: For Scientist roles, be prepared to discuss your thesis or research projects in depth, especially their practical application in the mining or fuel industry.
• GATE/NET Advantage: Project Associate roles often offer higher stipends to candidates who have cleared GATE or CSIR-UGC NET.
• Focus on Mining Safety & Environment: Given CIMFR’s strategic focus, knowledge of the Coal Mines Regulations (CMR) and environmental impact assessment (EIA) for mines is highly valued during interviews.