CSIR NIO Project Associate I Recruitment 2026: Notification, Eligibility, Salary & Apply Online

CSIR NIO Project Associate I Recruitment 2026: Notification, Eligibility, Salary & Apply Online

CSIR NIO Project Associate I Recruitment 2026 Overview

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 01 Project Associate I post. This is a prestigious opportunity for engineering graduates to contribute to a cutting-edge research project.

Project Context: The selected candidate will work on India's first indigenous Deep Sea Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (DAUV) development. This project marks a major milestone in the nation's ocean exploration capabilities, involving advanced technologies in underwater robotics, autonomous navigation, and intelligent sensor systems. The position is based at the Headquarters in Goa for a period of 6 months.

Recruitment Type: This is Direct Recruitment based on qualifications and merit, not a competitive written examination.

Key Highlights Table

Vacancy Details

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

• Essential Qualification: B.Tech/BE in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Automobile Engineering, Materials Engineering, or Production Engineering (or equivalent) with NET/GATE qualification.
• Special Note: In case of non-availability of NET/GATE qualified candidates, candidates without NET/GATE qualification will be considered. However, the emoluments will be reduced to ₹25,000/- plus HRA as per rules.
• Desirable Skills: Proficiency in Fusion 360, SolidWorks, CFD, 3D printing, and Assembly making.

Age Limit

• As per CSIR guidelines, the maximum age limit for Project Associates is typically 35 years.
• Age as on Date: Not explicitly mentioned in the text; candidates should refer to the official notification PDF for the specific cut-off date calculation.
• Age Relaxation: Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates as per Government of India rules.

Other Requirements

• Experience: Experience in underwater vehicle design, guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems, mathematical modeling, hydrodynamics simulation, and vehicle dynamics is highly desirable.
• Duration: The position is required to be filled for a period of 6 months.

Selection Process

Since this is direct recruitment for a research position, the selection is typically based on academic merit and/or an interview.

1. Shortlisting: Based on essential qualifications (B.Tech + NET/GATE) and desirable skills.
2. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will likely be called for an interview (Online/Offline) to assess technical knowledge and suitability for the DAUV project.
3. Final Merit: Final selection will be based on combined performance in the interview and academic records.

Application Fee

(Note: The provided text does not specify the application fee. Candidates must check the official notification PDF for fee details, if any.)

How to Apply

1. Visit the official CSIR-NIO website: https://www.nio.res.in/.
2. Navigate to the "Vacancies" or "Recruitment" section.
3. Search for the notification Advt No: MMP055201/3116-26 regarding Project Associate I.
4. Read the official notification PDF carefully to ensure you meet all eligibility criteria.
5. Click on the "Apply Online" link provided on the vacancies page.
6. Fill in the online application form with accurate personal, educational, and experience details.
7. Upload the required documents (Degree certificates, NET/GATE scorecard, ID proof, etc.).
8. Pay the application fee (if applicable) via the online payment gateway.
9. Submit the application form before the deadline.
10. Take a printout of the submitted application for future reference.

Important Dates

• Notification Release: Available now
• Application Start Date: Started
• Last Date for Application: 15 February 2026

Important Links

• Official Notification PDF: Click here to Download
• Apply Online Link: Click here to Apply (Check Vacancies section)
• Official Website: https://www.nio.res.in/