Kerala University Research Assistant Recruitment 2026: Apply Offline for 1 Post

Kerala University Research Assistant Recruitment 2026 Overview

The University of Kerala has released an official notification for the recruitment of one Research Assistant in the Centre for Biodiversity Conservation, Department of Botany, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram. The position is part of a Centre for Latin American Studies sponsored project titled 'Domestication and popularization of selected less known edible plants from Mexico for the food security of Kerala'.

This is not a regular university cadre post. The notification clearly states that the appointment is temporary and is meant only for the project period of two months. Candidates looking for a short-term research assignment in plant science or allied Botany disciplines can apply through the prescribed offline process mentioned in the notification.

Important Dates

The official notification does not publish a separate written test date or interview schedule. Candidates should treat 10 April 2026, 4:00 PM as the firm deadline for receipt of the application at the address given by the university.

Vacancy and Project Details

Because there is only one vacancy, candidates should expect the screening to be competitive. The post is tied to a specific research project rather than a broader recruitment drive.

Eligibility Criteria

The essential qualification mentioned in the notification is M.Sc. in Botany or any subject considered equivalent to M.Sc. Botany. Candidates should make sure that their qualification clearly matches this requirement before applying.

The notification also lists desirable qualifications. These are not mandatory, but they can strengthen the application during screening.

• NET or GATE qualification
• Knowledge in nursery maintenance
• Knowledge in plant propagation

If a candidate claims equivalence to M.Sc. Botany, it is sensible to include clear academic records or supporting documents that help the university assess that claim.

Age Limit and Relaxation

The age limit in the official notification is below 30 years as on 01 March 2026. This means the age calculation is linked to that cut-off date, not the last date of application.

The notification also states that relaxation is admissible as per government rules. It specifically mentions that age relaxation for SC and ST candidates will be as per Government of Kerala rules. Candidates seeking relaxation should attach the relevant caste certificate or other supporting proof along with the application.

Salary, Duration and Nature of Appointment

The fellowship for the Research Assistant post is Rs. 18,000 per month. The official notification describes the appointment as temporary for the project period of two months.

Applicants should note that this is a co-terminus project position. In practical terms, the engagement ends with the project and does not imply continuation, regular appointment or long-term university service. Candidates applying for the post should therefore see it as a short-duration research engagement.

How to Apply Offline

The application has to be submitted offline. The notification asks candidates to send the application in plain paper along with detailed biodata, a recent passport size photograph and self-attested copies of supporting documents.

1. Prepare an application in plain paper.
2. Add detailed biodata with contact information and academic details.
3. Attach a recent passport size photograph.
4. Enclose self-attested copies of qualification, age, experience and category certificates, wherever applicable.
5. Mention the name of the position and the advertisement number in the application letter.
6. Ensure the application reaches the address below on or before 10 April 2026 by 4:00 PM.

Postal address: Principal Investigator, CLAS-Indo Mexican Project II, Centre for Biodiversity Conservation, Department of Botany, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695 581.

The notification also lists the contact email as easiril@keralauniversity.ac.in, but the application process itself is described as offline.

Documents to Attach with the Application

The official notification expects candidates to submit supporting documents along with the offline application. A complete application should normally include the following:

• Application in plain paper
• Detailed biodata or curriculum vitae
• Recent passport size photograph
• Self-attested copies of educational certificates and mark sheets
• Proof of age
• Experience certificates, if available
• NET or GATE proof, if applicable
• SC or ST certificate, if claiming age relaxation

Since only self-attested copies are to be sent with the application, candidates should keep the originals ready. The notification says original certificates must be produced for verification at the time of interview.

Selection Process and What Is Officially Confirmed

The notification does not describe a written examination, skill test or detailed stage-wise recruitment scheme. What is clearly confirmed is that applications will be screened, candidates may be called for interview, and original certificates have to be produced for verification at that stage.

The university also states that the Principal Investigator has the right to reject applications after screening. No TA or DA will be paid for attending the interview, if called. Since the detailed selection method is not separately published, candidates should avoid assuming any stage that is not mentioned in the official notice.

Key Points Candidates Should Note Before Applying

• The post is only for one Research Assistant and is project-based.
• The appointment is temporary for two months and co-terminates with the project.
• The application mode is offline, not online.
• The university has not mentioned any application fee in the notification.
• The deadline is 10 April 2026 at 4:00 PM, and the application must reach the address by then.
• The name of the position and the advertisement number should be written in the application letter.
• Original certificates will be required later if the candidate is called for interview.

For most applicants, the safest approach is to prepare the application well before the last date and send a complete set of documents so the application is not rejected during initial screening.

Official Links

• Official Notification PDF - Kerala University Research Assistant Recruitment 2026
• University of Kerala Job Notifications
• University of Kerala Official Website