Zoological Survey Of India (ZSI) Recruitment 2026: Career Guide & Vacancy Details

About Zoological Survey Of India Careers

🏛️ Organization Overview

Established in 1916, the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) is the apex body for taxonomic research and faunal documentation in the country. Headquartered at Prani Vigyan Bhawan in Kolkata, it operates through 16 Regional Centres strategically located across India's biogeographic zones—from the high altitudes of Solan to the marine depths of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

ZSI's primary mission is to survey, explore, and document the faunal resources of India. It maintains the "National Zoological Collections," which houses millions of specimens serving as the scientific heritage of the nation. Careers at ZSI involve a blend of rigorous laboratory research, DNA barcoding, and extensive field expeditions into remote forests, wetlands, and marine protected areas.

💼 Key Job Profiles (Evergreen Roles)

• Scientist 'B' / 'C' (Group A): The core research positions. These officers lead taxonomic divisions, guide field surveys, and publish research in high-impact international journals. They are typically recruited through UPSC or specialized ministry-level selection.
• Junior/Senior Research Fellow (JRF/SRF): Vital for project-based research. These roles are usually the entry point for fresh M.Sc. graduates with CSIR-NET or GATE qualifications. Fellows contribute to the "Documentation of Traditional Knowledge" and species status surveys.
• Technical Assistant / Taxidermist: Specialized roles focused on the preservation and cataloging of biological specimens. These positions require technical diplomas or degrees in Zoology and focus on maintaining the integrity of the national collections.

💰 Salary & Employee Benefits

As a Central Government body, ZSI follows the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC).

• Scientist Grades: Recruitment for Scientist 'B' starts at Level-10 (Basic Pay ₹56,100), with senior grades reaching Level-14 and above.
• Research Fellowships: JRFs receive a monthly stipend (approx. ₹31,000 - ₹37,000 + HRA), which is upgraded to SRF after two years of satisfactory progress.
• Perks: Benefits include Government-provided residential quarters (or HRA), Dearness Allowance (DA), Travel Allowance (TA), and comprehensive medical facilities under CGHS. Fellows often receive contingent grants (approx. ₹15,000 - ₹20,000 per annum) for field expenses and software.

🎯 Selection Process

The selection for ZSI is rigorous and varies by the nature of the post:

1. Scientific Posts: Usually handled by the UPSC via a direct interview or a written recruitment test followed by a personal interview for Scientist 'B' and above.
2. Fellowship Positions: Candidates are shortlisted based on their CSIR-NET/GATE scores or academic merit, followed by a Technical Interview (often conducted at the Kolkata HQ or virtually).
3. Physical Fitness: Given the field-heavy nature of the work, many roles require a medical certificate verifying fitness for travel in difficult terrains and hostile weather conditions.

💡 Expert Tips: How to Crack ZSI Exams

• Focus on Taxonomy: Unlike general biology exams, ZSI interviews place heavy emphasis on Classical Taxonomy, morphology, and the identification of specific animal groups (e.g., Lepidoptera, Arachnida).
• Field Experience Matters: Highlight any experience in wildlife photography, mountaineering, or previous field data collection; these are highly valued "Desirable Qualifications."
• Stay Updated on Environmental Acts: Knowledge of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 is essential for any administrative or scientific role at ZSI.