Apply machine learning to biodiversity research at ISI Kolkata; deadline 1 November

ISI Kolkata’s machine-learning project opening

The Indian Statistical Institute invites applications for one Project Associate-I in machine learning under notice PU/507/ADV/899 dated 14 October 2026. The temporary, full-time role supports a DBT-funded project using image-based identification of nematodes for biodiversity assessment and precision agriculture. It is based in Kolkata across the Agricultural & Ecological Research Unit and the Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition Unit.

Essential qualifications and desirable skills

Accepted routes include BE/BTech in computer science, IT, electronics or electrical engineering; MSc in computer science, IT, electronics, mathematics or statistics; MCA; or the equivalents specified by the institute. Relevant ME/MTech qualifications are desirable. The advert also values strong Python or Matlab programming and machine-learning project knowledge, especially where it connects to the research subject. It does not prescribe a minimum duration of prior employment.

Research context and useful technical preparation

The project connects computer vision with agricultural and ecological research. The notice does not publish a detailed task-by-task work plan, but its subject makes it useful to explain any genuine image-analysis, classification or machine-learning work in your application. Describe your contribution and evaluation approach. This is preparation guidance rather than a claim that ISI mandates a particular model, dataset or software framework.

Monthly pay and qualifying-test distinction

The consolidated monthly amount is ₹31,000 plus applicable institute HRA for candidates meeting the notice’s national qualifying-test condition, including the stated CSIR/UGC-JRF, NET or GATE-related route. Other eligible candidates receive ₹25,000 plus applicable HRA. The notice says no other allowance applies. The higher rate is conditional; it should not be described as the guaranteed pay for every selected applicant.

Age, tenure and employment status

The normal age limit is 35 on 1 November 2026, with specified category relaxations and possible relaxation for exceptionally bright candidates with relevant experience. Appointment initially runs until 31 March 2027 and can be extended or ended earlier depending on performance and funding. The role is co-terminus with the project and does not create a right to permanent employment or continuation in another ISI project.

Application route and closing date

Submit through the application link embedded in the institute’s official advertisement by 1 November 2026. The PDF is linked under Important links so that applicants can use the exact employer-designated form. Do not assume that emailing a résumé to a contact address substitutes for submitting through that link. Keep your email address active because shortlisted candidates receive interview information by email.

Documents requested with the form

The notice asks for date-of-birth evidence, degree certificates and marksheets, caste certificate where applicable, a qualifying government identity document, disability certificate if needed, experience evidence and a recent passport-size photograph. Incomplete information or missing supporting records can lead to rejection. Keep originals ready for verification; at joining, the selected candidate also needs medical fitness certification from the institute’s medical officer.

Shortlisting, interview and practical conditions

ISI may hold a subject-area written test if needed to shortlist applicants for interview; the selection committee determines how many people are called. Meeting essential eligibility does not guarantee selection. No travel or daily allowance is paid for attending the interview or joining. The institute expressly says residential facilities are not available for contractual staff, so consider accommodation costs when assessing the monthly remuneration.

Practical application check for the research role

Match your degree subject to an eligible route and identify which pay condition your qualifying-test record supports. For any project description, explain the input data, method and evaluation without overstating results or your contribution. Check every required upload and open the official application link before the closing date. The institute’s conditions on tenure and housing are significant practical details alongside the research topic.

Relevant skills

• Machine learning
• Python
• Matlab
• Image analysis