Sustainable Agriculture

Research Associate(Consultant)

Job Profile

1. Identify and characterize plant-parasitic and beneficial nematodes from soil, root, and rhizosphere samples.
2. Perform extraction techniques such as Baermann funnel, Cobb-s sieving, centrifugation, and modified flotation methods.
3. Quantify nematode populations and assess infestation levels in crop systems.
4. Conduct pathogenicity assays and host-parasite interaction studies.
5. Develop and evaluate nematode management strategies, including biocontrol agents and eco-friendly formulations.
6. Isolate, culture, and characterize soil and plant-associated microorganisms including fungi, bacteria, and actinomycetes.
7. Perform biochemical, molecular, and functional assays for microbial identification.
8. Maintain microbial culture collections and ensure laboratory biosafety compliance.
9. Study microbe-nematode interactions for biological control applications.
10. Conduct identification of microbial strains through microscopic and molecular studies
11. Prepare technical reports, research manuscripts, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
12. Highly motivated, solution-oriented, and should be able to work in a multidisciplinary team
13. Ensure compliance with biosafety and laboratory protocols

Experience

0 - 2 Years

Qualification

1. Master-s or Ph.D. in Nematology- Plant Pathology- Microbiology- Agricultural Sciences- Biotechnology- or a related field.
2. Strong knowledge of nematode taxonomy- microscopy- and soil ecosystem biology.
3. Hands-on experience in microbial isolation- characterization- and laboratory techniques.
4. National eligibility tests such as CSIR-NET- GATE or National level examination conducted by central government departments and their agencies.
5. Ability to work independently and in collaborative research environments.

Skills

Experience working with nematode- biocontrol agents and microbe based agri-formulations for at least 2 years.
Proficiency in statistical and data analysis software (R/SPSS/Excel)- image analysis and microscopy tools (ImageJ- microscope software)- and basic molecular/bioinformatics tools (BLAST- MEGA).
Ability to manage research data- prepare scientific reports and presentations- and support field- and laboratory-based nematological studies.

Location

TERI-Gram

Salary

47,000-55,000

Please apply latest by January 15, 2026