The Central University of Tamil Nadu (CUTN) has announced a prestigious ICMR-funded research opportunity for the position of Project Research Scientist I in its Department of Epidemiology and Public Health. The selected candidate will work on a groundbreaking project titled “Building a surveillance model for detecting zoonotic spillover in increased bird-human interaction settings using the One Health approach.”
Offering a monthly fellowship of ₹56,000 + 10% HRA, this position seeks postgraduates in Microbiology, Life Sciences, MLT, Molecular Biology, or Biotechnology, with preference for candidates experienced in PCR, ELISA, and molecular assays.
Applications must be submitted via Google Form by October 16, 2025, and interviews will be held in hybrid mode. For details, contact Prof. Gopalan N at gopalan@cutn.ac.in.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Central University of Tamil Nadu (CUTN) |
| Department | Epidemiology and Public Health |
| Project Title | Building a surveillance model for detecting zoonotic spillover in increased bird-human interaction settings using the One Health approach |
| Funding Agency | Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) |
| Position Title | Project Research Scientist I |
| Monthly Fellowship | ₹56,000 + 10% HRA |
| Tenure | Initially 1 year (extendable based on performance & fund availability) |
| Qualification (Essential) | M.Sc. / Integrated PG in Microbiology, Life Sciences, MLT, Molecular Biology, or Biotechnology |
| Qualification (Desirable) | PhD preferred; experience in PCR, ELISA, Lateral Flow, and Immunological Assays |
| Application Mode | Online via Google Form |
| Last Date to Apply | October 16, 2025 (tentative) |
| Interview Mode | Hybrid (Online/Offline) |
| Principal Investigator | Prof. Gopalan N |
| Contact Email | gopalan@cutn.ac.in |
| Location | Thiruvarur – 610005, Tamil Nadu |
| Official Website | www.cutn.ac.in |
Research Opportunity at Central University of Tamil Nadu: Project Research Scientist I
The Central University of Tamil Nadu (CUTN), located in Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu, has announced a significant research opening in its Department of Epidemiology and Public Health. Applications are invited for the contractual position of Project Research Scientist I to work on a specialized, time-bound research project sponsored by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
The ICMR-Sponsored Research Project
The core focus of this position is a critical public health initiative titled: “Building a surveillance model for detecting zoonotic spillover in increased bird-human interaction setting using the One Health approach: A study at selected bird sanctuaries and wetlands”.
This project employs the ‘One Health approach,’ which recognizes that the health of people is closely connected to the health of animals and our shared environment. The research aims to develop a robust surveillance model specifically designed to detect the spillover of zoonotic diseases—those transferable from animals to humans—in areas where interaction between birds and humans is frequent, such as selected bird sanctuaries and wetlands. The successful candidate will contribute to developing strategies for early detection and prevention of potential public health threats.
Position and Emoluments
The selected candidate will be appointed as a Project Research Scientist I. This position offers a competitive monthly fellowship of Rs. 56,000/- plus an additional 10% House Rent Allowance (HRA).
Furthermore, the position includes a provision for a 5% increment in the fellowship after two years, contingent upon a satisfactory performance review. The initial tenure of the position is one year, with the possibility of extension depending on the availability of funds. Applicants should note that the salary slab is subject to change based on any revised guidelines issued by the ICMR.
Essential and Desirable Qualifications
The advertisement specifies clear requirements for eligibility:
Essential Qualifications
Candidates must have an M.Sc. or Integrated PG degree in one of the following relevant fields:
- Microbiology
- Life Sciences
- Medical Lab Technology (MLT)
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Desirable Qualifications
A PhD in the relevant discipline is highly desirable. Preference will also be given to candidates who possess practical experience in advanced molecular and immunological techniques, including:
- Lateral flow and Point of care assay development
- Real time PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
- ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)
- Any other relevant molecular biology work experience
The age limit for this position will be as specified by the ICMR and the rules laid out by the Government of India.
Application and Interview Procedure
Interested candidates are required to submit their responses via a Google form by the last date, which is tentatively October 16, 2025. The date of the interview will be communicated directly to the shortlisted candidates. The interviews will be conducted in a Hybrid Mode.
Documents Required at the Time of Interview
Candidates called for the interview must present the following documents for verification:
- A fully filled-in application in the format attached, a covering letter, and a detailed curriculum vitae (CV).
- Original and attested photocopies of all academic documents, including certificates, degree, and mark sheets.
- Original and attested copy of qualification certificates from national level exams, such as CSIR NET, ICMR-JRF, DBT, ASRB NET, UGC NET, or TIFR-JGEEBILS.
- Copies of any other certificates, testimonials, or documents deemed relevant by the candidate to bring to the knowledge of the selection committee.
FAQs on research position announced by CUTN
What is the research position announced by CUTN?
The Central University of Tamil Nadu (CUTN) has announced a research opening for the post of Project Research Scientist I in its Department of Epidemiology and Public Health.
Who is funding this research project?
The project is funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), one of India’s leading national research bodies in medical sciences.
What is the title of the research project?
The project is titled “Building a surveillance model for detecting zoonotic spillover in increased bird-human interaction settings using the One Health approach.”
What is the objective of this research project?
The project aims to develop a surveillance model to detect early signs of zoonotic disease transmission in areas with high bird-human interaction, such as bird sanctuaries and wetlands.
What does the One Health approach mean in this context?
The One Health approach recognizes that human health, animal health, and environmental health are interconnected, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration to prevent zoonotic diseases.
What is the monthly fellowship for this position?
The selected candidate will receive a fellowship of ₹56,000 per month plus 10% House Rent Allowance (HRA).
Is there any provision for a salary increment?
Yes, a 5% increment in fellowship is applicable after two years of satisfactory performance.
What is the tenure of the project position?
The initial appointment is for one year and may be extended based on performance and the availability of project funds.
What are the essential educational qualifications required?
Candidates must have an M.Sc. or an Integrated Postgraduate degree in Microbiology, Life Sciences, Medical Lab Technology (MLT), Molecular Biology, or Biotechnology.
Are PhD holders eligible to apply?
Yes, PhD holders in relevant fields are highly desirable and will be given preference during selection.
What are the desirable skills and experiences for this role?
Candidates with experience in molecular and immunological techniques such as PCR, ELISA, and lateral flow assay development will have an advantage.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
Yes, the age limit will be as per the rules of the ICMR and Government of India guidelines.
What is the mode of application?
Applicants must submit their details through a Google Form as mentioned in the official CUTN advertisement.
What is the last date to apply for the position?
The tentative last date for submitting applications is October 16, 2025.
Will the interviews be held online or offline?
Interviews will be conducted in a hybrid mode, allowing both online and offline participation.
How will shortlisted candidates be informed?
Shortlisted candidates will be informed about the interview date and details directly via email.
What documents are required at the time of the interview?
Applicants must bring their filled application form, CV, original certificates, attested photocopies of degrees, mark sheets, and proof of national-level exam qualifications if applicable.
Are candidates with national-level qualifications given preference?
Yes, candidates who have qualified national-level exams like CSIR-NET, ICMR-JRF, UGC-NET, DBT-JRF, or similar will be given preference.
Who is the Principal Investigator of this project?
The project is led by Prof. Gopalan N from the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, CUTN.
Where is the Central University of Tamil Nadu located?
The university is located in Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu, India.
What is the email address for official communication?
Interested applicants can reach out to the Principal Investigator at gopalan@cutn.ac.in for queries related to the project.
What is the main research focus area?
The focus area is zoonotic disease surveillance, particularly diseases transmitted between birds and humans in natural habitats.
What kind of fieldwork might be involved in this project?
Fieldwork may include visiting bird sanctuaries and wetlands to collect and analyze biological samples for early detection of zoonotic pathogens.
Does this position provide opportunities for publication?
Yes, the project’s research outcomes may lead to high-impact publications in reputed scientific journals.
Will the selected candidate receive any training?
The selected researcher will gain hands-on training in molecular diagnostics, surveillance methods, and interdisciplinary public health research.
Is there a possibility of extension or absorption after project completion?
Extension depends on the project’s continuation and performance; however, it does not guarantee a permanent position.
What type of research environment does CUTN provide?
CUTN offers a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment with access to advanced laboratory facilities and experienced mentors.
What should applicants highlight in their application?
Applicants should emphasize technical expertise, relevant project experience, and publications or presentations in related fields.
Can candidates from outside Tamil Nadu apply?
Yes, candidates from across India who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for this position.
Is there any application fee?
The official notification does not mention any application fee, so candidates can apply free of cost.
When will the interview be conducted?
The exact interview date will be communicated to shortlisted candidates after the application review.
Can candidates apply while awaiting final results of their qualifying exam?
Candidates should have completed the qualifying degree by the date of interview; those awaiting results may not be eligible unless otherwise specified.
Will accommodation be provided to selected candidates?
The fellowship includes an HRA component; candidates may arrange accommodation independently near the CUTN campus.
What are the future career benefits of this role?
The role provides valuable experience in public health research, diagnostic development, and project management—beneficial for academic and industrial careers.
How can one access the official advertisement?
The official notification and application details are available on the CUTN website at www.cutn.ac.in.
What makes this opportunity unique?
This position offers a rare blend of fieldwork, laboratory research, and interdisciplinary collaboration under the One Health framework.
Is this opportunity suitable for fresh postgraduates?
Yes, motivated postgraduates with strong laboratory skills and a keen interest in zoonotic research are encouraged to apply.
What happens after the interview selection?
Selected candidates will receive an official offer and must complete verification before commencing the project work at CUTN.
Does the role require relocation to Thiruvarur?
Yes, in-person lab work may require candidates to stay in or around the CUTN campus in Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu.
What is the working environment like at CUTN?
The university fosters an inclusive and research-driven culture with opportunities to collaborate across scientific disciplines.
Is prior experience in zoonotic research mandatory?
It is not mandatory but will be an added advantage during the selection process.
How can candidates prepare for the interview?
Candidates should review the project’s objectives, understand zoonotic surveillance concepts, and prepare to discuss their lab experience confidently.
Can the project lead to PhD opportunities?
Yes, the research experience gained may strengthen your profile for future PhD admissions or funded research fellowships.
Is there any contact number provided in the notification?
The official advertisement primarily lists an email contact for communication: gopalan@cutn.ac.in.
Why should candidates consider applying through AUBSP updates?
AUBSP provides timely academic and research opportunity updates, ensuring applicants stay informed and submit well-prepared applications before deadlines.
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