KSCSTE Recruitment 2026: Career Guide & Vacancy Details

About KSCSTE Careers

🏛️ Organization Overview

The Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) was established in 2002 to serve as a catalyst for scientific development in Kerala. Headed by the Chief Minister of Kerala as its President, the Council manages a network of prestigious R&D centers including the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), CWRDM, and JNTBGRI.

Working with KSCSTE involves contributing to the state's scientific roadmap, from climate change studies and biotechnology to water resource management. The organization acts as a bridge between academia, industry, and the government, making it a unique ecosystem for scientists who want their research to have direct social and regional relevance.

💼 Key Job Profiles (Evergreen Roles)

• Scientist (B/C/E/F): Core research positions responsible for leading projects in specific scientific domains. Requires a PhD or M.Tech with a proven track record of publications in SCI journals.
• Technical Officer / Scientific Assistant: Provides critical support in laboratory management, equipment maintenance, and field-level data collection across various R&D centers.
• Research Fellow (JRF/SRF): Primarily entry-level research roles funded through KSCSTE schemes. Selection for state-level fellowships often involves a competitive entrance examination.
• Project Scientist / Project Fellow: Contractual but prestigious roles tied to specific time-bound research projects funded by state or national agencies.

💰 Salary & Employee Benefits

KSCSTE follows the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) pay matrix as adopted by the Government of Kerala for its regular scientific and technical cadre.

• Scientist Pay: Junior Scientists typically start at Level-10 (Entry Pay ₹56,100), while Senior Principal Scientists reach Level-13 and above.
• Fellowship Stipends: JRFs receive approximately ₹31,000 + HRA, and SRFs receive ₹35,000 + HRA per month.
• Standard Perks: As a Kerala State Government-backed body, employees enjoy Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), medical reimbursement, and pension benefits under the statutory rules. Scientists are also eligible for professional update allowances and research grants.

🎯 Selection Process

The selection process at KSCSTE is highly competitive and transparent:

1. Written Examination: Conducted for Junior Scientist, Technical, and Administrative posts to test domain expertise and analytical skills.
2. KSCSTE Research Fellowship Exam: A specific state-level online examination for post-graduates seeking PhD fellowships.
3. Interview & Seminar: Faculty and higher-level Scientist roles require a technical presentation (seminar) followed by a personal interview before an expert committee.
4. Academic Screening: Shortlisting is strictly based on the API (Academic Performance Indicator) score, including journal impact factors and patents filed.

💡 Expert Tips: How to Crack KSCSTE Exams

• Focus on SCI Publications: For scientist roles, the council heavily weights publications in Science Citation Index (SCI) journals. Ensure your research profile is updated.
• Kerala Science Congress: Stay updated with the proceedings of the annual Kerala Science Congress, as it reflects the current priorities and research focus of the Council.
• State Domicile & Language: While open to all, some non-scientific administrative roles may require a basic understanding of the Malayalam language and preference for Kerala domicile as per state government norms.