CSIR Director Recruitment 2026 - Apply Offline
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 08 January 2026 |
| Application Submission Period | From 08 January 2026 |
| Last Date for Application Submission | 28 February 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Scrutiny of Applications | March 2026 |
| Shortlisting of Candidates | To be notified |
| Presentation/Interview Date | Will be intimated to shortlisted candidates |
| Interview Venue | CSIR-CEERI, Pilani, Rajasthan |
Note: The extended deadline provides ample time for candidates to prepare comprehensive applications with all required documents and supporting materials demonstrating their research excellence and leadership capabilities.
Application Fee
There is no application fee for this recruitment. All eligible candidates can apply free of cost. This ensures that the selection is purely merit-based without any financial barriers.
Age Limit
The age criteria for the Director position are specific and must be strictly adhered to:
Minimum Age: 45 years (as on date of advertisement)
Maximum Age: 56 years (as on date of advertisement)
This age band ensuresthat candidates bring both maturity and sufficient tenure to contribute meaningfully to the institute's growth.
Age Relaxation: Age relaxation up to 5 years may be considered for exceptionally qualified candidates with outstanding research credentials and significant national/international recognition. Such relaxation will be at the discretion of the selection committee.
For CSIR Employees: Existing CSIR employees may be considered with suitable age relaxation as per CSIR rules, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria and possess the required research standing.
Qualification
Essential Educational Qualifications
Candidates must possess one of the following educational qualifications:
For Science Disciplines:
- Ph.D. degree in Natural Sciences from a recognized university/institution
- The Ph.D. should be in relevant field such as Physics, Chemistry, Electronics, Materials Science, or related disciplines
For Engineering Disciplines:
- Master's Degree in Engineering from a recognized university/institution
- Ph.D. in Engineering is highly desirable
- Relevant engineering disciplines include Electronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Communication Engineering, Instrumentation, etc.
Experience Requirements
The position demands extensive and distinguished experience in research and development:
Minimum Experience: At least 16 years of post-Ph.D. experience in Research and Development activities
Nature of Experience:
- Demonstrated excellence in R&D with significant focus on translational research
- Experience should be in areas relevant to CEERI's activities (electronics, microelectronics, MEMS, photonics, etc.)
- Proven track record of leading research teams and managing large projects
- Experience in technology development, prototype fabrication, and technology transfer
Leadership Experience:
- Demonstrated excellence in leadership positions
- Experience in managing research institutions, departments, or major research programs
- Ability to provide strategic vision and direction to R&D activities
- Track record of building and leading high-performing research teams
Research and Publication Requirements
Candidates must have an outstanding research profile demonstrating:
- Significant number of publications in high-impact international peer-reviewed journals
- Patents filed and granted in India and abroad
- Technology transfers and commercialization of research outcomes
- Recognition through awards, fellowships, and honors
- Citations and h-index reflecting research impact
- Participation in national/international conferences and invited lectures
Desirable Qualifications
- Fellowship of national academies (FNA, FASc, FNASc, INAE)
- International recognition and collaborations
- Experience in industry-academia partnerships
- Knowledge of IPR management and technology commercialization
- Administrative experience in premier research institutions
- Understanding of government funding mechanisms and project management
Complete Job Details
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has issued a prestigious recruitment notification for the position of Director at the CSIR-Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CEERI), Pilani. This is one of the most significant leadership opportunities in India's scientific research ecosystem, offering the chance to head a premier national laboratory engaged in cutting-edge research and development in electronics engineering.
CSIR-CEERI, Pilani, is recognized as a Center of Excellence in electronics, microelectronics, MEMS, optoelectronics, and photonics. The institute has been at the forefront of developing indigenous technologies for defense, space, healthcare, and industrial applications. The Director position represents the apex of scientific leadership, combining research excellence, administrative acumen, and strategic vision to guide one of India's most important research institutions.
About CSIR-CEERI, Pilani
Established in 1953, the Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute (CEERI) is one of the oldest constituent laboratories of CSIR. Located in Pilani, Rajasthan, CEERI has made pioneering contributions to electronics and communication engineering research. The institute focuses on developing prototypes, processes, and products in areas including microelectronics, MEMS/NEMS, optoelectronics and photonics, wireless sensor networks, biomedical instrumentation, and advanced electronics systems.
CEERI operates state-of-the-art fabrication facilities, including a semiconductor device fabrication facility, MEMS fabrication facility, and various advanced characterization labs. The institute collaborates extensively with defense establishments, space agencies, industries, and academic institutions. CEERI's innovations have resulted in hundreds of patents, technology transfers, and commercialized products serving national strategic needs.
The Role of Director
The Director of CSIR-CEERI holds a position of immense responsibility and prestige. The role encompasses:
Scientific Leadership:
- Providing strategic direction to research programs aligned with national priorities
- Fostering innovation and excellence in electronics engineering research
- Promoting interdisciplinary research and collaboration
- Ensuring quality publications, patents, and technology transfers
- Mentoring scientists and nurturing research talent
Administrative Responsibilities:
- Overall management of the institute including finance, establishment, and infrastructure
- Formulation and implementation of institutional policies
- Resource mobilization through projects, grants, and partnerships
- Ensuring effective utilization of allocated budgets and resources
- Maintaining academic and research standards
External Engagement:
- Building partnerships with industry, academia, and international research organizations
- Representing CEERI in national and international forums
- Facilitating technology transfer and commercialization
- Engaging with defense, space, and industrial stakeholders
- Contributing to national policy formulation in electronics and technology
Career Impact and Significance
Leading CSIR-CEERI offers unparalleled professional satisfaction, the opportunity to shape India's technological future, access to cutting-edge research infrastructure, collaboration with top scientists globally, and a chance to contribute directly to national development and self-reliance in critical technologies. The position carries significant prestige in India's scientific community and provides a platform to influence science and technology policy at the national level.
Vacancy Details
| Recruitment Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) |
| Institute Name | CSIR-Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CEERI), Pilani, Rajasthan |
| Post Name | Director |
| Total Vacancies | 01 Post |
| Classification | Apex Level Scientific & Administrative Position |
| Pay Scale | Rs. 1,82,200 – Rs. 2,24,100 (as per 7th CPC) + Allowances |
| Additional Benefits | DA, HRA, Official Residence, Vehicle Facility, Medical Benefits, Leave Travel Concession, Retirement Benefits |
| Educational Qualification | Ph.D. in Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Electronics, etc.) OR Master's Degree in Engineering (Electronics, Electrical, Communication, etc.) - Ph.D. in Engineering is highly desirable |
| Experience Required | Minimum 16 years of post-Ph.D. experience in Research & Development with demonstrated excellence in translational research and leadership |
| Research Profile | Outstanding publications in high-impact journals, significant patents, technology transfers, national/international recognition |
| Age Limit | Between 45 to 56 years (as on date of advertisement) - Relaxation for exceptional candidates |
| Tenure | 5 years or until attaining 62 years of age, whichever is earlier |
| Application Mode | Offline (Hard Copy by Registered/Speed Post) |
| Application Fee | NIL (No Fee Required) |
| Notification Date | 08 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 28 February 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Selection Process | Application Screening → Research Profile Evaluation → Shortlisting → Presentation & Interview by Selection Committee |
| Application Address | The Director General, CSIR, Anusandhan Bhawan, 2 Rafi Marg, New Delhi – 110001 |
| Official Website | www.ceeri.res.in | www.csir.res.in |
Apply Online & Download Links
Important Instructions
- Read the official notification carefully before applying
- Check eligibility criteria including age limit and qualification
- Keep all required documents ready before filling the form
- Apply online before the last date to avoid last-minute rush
- Take a printout of the filled application form for future reference
- For any queries, contact the official helpline mentioned in notification