The CSIR – Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), a world-renowned constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) in Chennai, has announced its CLRI Chennai Recruitment 2026 Project Associate under Notification No. 01/2026. As the world’s largest leather research institute, CLRI is at the forefront of combining traditional leather science with modern biotechnology and footwear engineering. This recruitment drive offers aspiring researchers a chance to work on high-impact applied research projects in a state-of-the-art academic and industrial environment. Selected candidates will contribute to the institute’s mission of sustainable leather processing and innovative footwear design, directly impacting both the national and global leather sectors.
Job Summary Table
| Organization Name | CSIR – Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) |
| Notification No. | 01/2026 |
| Post Name | Project Associate-I |
| Total Vacancies | 02 |
| Job Category | Research / Project-Based |
| Application Mode | Written Test & Interview |
| Job Location | Adyar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
Eligibility Criteria & Qualifications
CLRI seeks candidates with specialized technical backgrounds to support its ongoing research initiatives in footwear and biosciences.
- Educational Requirements (Option A): M.Tech in Footwear Engineering & Management from a recognized university.
- Educational Requirements (Option B): M.Sc in Biotechnology, Bioscience, or Biochemistry.
- Core Competencies: Applicants should have a strong interest in applied research, material science, or biochemical processes related to leather and footwear.
- Age Limit: As per CSIR/Government of India norms for Project Associate positions (typically 35 years, with relaxations for reserved categories).
Emoluments & Fellowship Benefits
The position offers a standardized fellowship package as per CSIR project guidelines.
- Monthly Emoluments: ₹25,000 + HRA (House Rent Allowance as applicable in Chennai).
- Research Exposure: Opportunity to work under the guidance of senior CSIR scientists and gain experience in industrial R&D projects.
- Career Path: Experience gained at CLRI is highly valued in the global leather, chemical, and footwear industries.
Selection Process
The institute follows a dual-stage selection process to ensure the technical competence of the candidates:
- Written Test: A preliminary evaluation of subject knowledge scheduled for March 16, 2026.
- Interview: Candidates who qualify the written test will be called for a personal interview on March 18, 2026.
- Venue: Both stages will be conducted at the CLRI campus in Adyar, Chennai.
Application Procedure (Walk-in Details)
Eligible candidates are required to report to the institute for the selection process.
- Reporting Date for Test: March 16, 2026.
- Reporting Date for Interview: March 18, 2026 (for shortlisted candidates).
- Venue: CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute, Adyar, Chennai – 600020.
- Documents to Carry: * Updated Resume/Bio-data.
- Original certificates and mark sheets (SSLC onwards).
- One set of self-attested photocopies of all testimonials.
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Valid Photo ID proof (Aadhar/Voter ID).
Important Links & Dates
| Milestone | Date / Link |
| Notification Date | February 2026 |
| Written Test Date | March 16, 2026 |
| Interview Date | March 18, 2026 |
| Official Website | Click Here |
| Detailed Notification | View PDF |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the primary focus of CLRI Chennai Recruitment 2026 Project Associate?
The recruitment is for two Project Associate-I positions focusing on footwear engineering and biotechnology-related research projects.
Can M.Sc Life Science graduates apply?
Yes, candidates with an M.Sc in Bioscience, Biotechnology, or Biochemistry are eligible for one of the specialization tracks.
Is prior experience mandatory?
While not explicitly mandatory, a strong academic background in research projects during post-graduation is highly beneficial.
Where exactly is the venue for the test and interview?
The selection process will be held at the CSIR-CLRI campus in Adyar, Chennai.
Is the fellowship amount inclusive of HRA?
No, the ₹25,000 is the basic stipend, and HRA is provided additionally as per Chennai city norms.