ICMR NIHR Recruitment 2026 - Walkin for 12 Junior Consultant, Young Professional Posts
Job Description
Eligibility
How to Apply
Overview
The Indian Council of Medical Research - National Institute of Health and Rehabilitation (ICMR-NIHR) has announced recruitment for 12 positions including Junior Consultant and Young Professional posts through a walk-in interview process in 2026. ICMR-NIHR is an autonomous research institute under the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, dedicated to health rehabilitation research. This recruitment offers opportunities for candidates with ITI and related qualifications to work on various health research and consultancy projects. Selected candidates will be engaged on contractual basis for project-specific assignments across India. The walk-in interview format allows eligible candidates to appear directly without a preliminary written examination, making it an accessible opportunity for young professionals seeking careers in health research administration and technical support roles.
Important Dates
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | January 2026 (Indicative) |
| Walk-in Interview Date | To be announced on official website |
| Document Verification | Same day as interview |
| Result Declaration | Within 15 days of interview |
| Joining Date | As per offer letter |
Vacancy Details
Vacancy Details
Typical / Indicative breakdown:
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| UR (Unreserved) | 6 |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 |
| SC (Scheduled Caste) | 2 |
| ST (Scheduled Tribe) | 1 |
| EWS (Economically Weaker Section) | 0 |
| Total | 12 |
Eligibility
Educational Qualification
For Junior Consultant Posts:
- Bachelor's degree in relevant discipline (Medical/Health Sciences/Management) from recognized university
- Post-graduation/Diploma in relevant specialization preferred
- Minimum 2-3 years relevant work experience in health sector
For Young Professional Posts:
- ITI (Industrial Training Institute) certificate in relevant trade
- OR Diploma in Engineering/Technology
- OR Bachelor's degree in relevant field
- Fresh graduates and candidates with up to 2 years experience eligible
- Computer literacy and proficiency in MS Office mandatory
Age Limit
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| General/UR | 18 years | 35 years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 18 years | 38 years |
| SC/ST | 18 years | 40 years |
| PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) | 18 years | 45 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | 18 years | 38 years (after deducting military service) |
Age Relaxation:
| Category | Relaxation Period |
|---|---|
| OBC | 3 years |
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| PwBD (UR) | 10 years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 13 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 years |
Age calculated as on the date of walk-in interview.
Nationality
Candidate must be:
- A citizen of India, OR
- A subject of Nepal, OR
- A subject of Bhutan, OR
- A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962 with intention of permanent settlement, OR
- A person of Indian origin migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia and Vietnam with intention of permanent settlement in India
Candidates in categories (ii) to (v) must have Certificate of Eligibility issued by Government of India.
How to Apply
How to Apply
This is a Walk-in Interview process. No online application required.
- Download the Application Format from the official ICMR-NIHR website (www.nihr.icmr.org.in)
- Fill the Application Form completely with accurate details in CAPITAL LETTERS
- Attach Recent Passport-size Photograph (affix on application form)
- Prepare Self-attested Copies of all educational certificates, mark sheets, experience certificates, caste certificate (if applicable), age proof
- Carry Original Documents along with one set of self-attested photocopies for verification
- Prepare Your Bio-data/Resume (2 copies) highlighting relevant experience
- Reach the Venue on specified date and time as mentioned in the notification at ICMR-NIHR office
- Report at Registration Counter at least 30 minutes before interview commencement
- Submit Application with all documents at the registration desk
- Attend Document Verification followed by personal interview
Application Fee
| Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| General/UR/OBC/EWS Candidates | No Fee (Walk-in basis) |
| SC/ST/PwBD/Women Candidates | No Fee |
| Ex-Servicemen | No Fee |
Note: Being a walk-in interview for contractual positions under ICMR, typically no application fee is charged. Candidates should verify from official notification.
Selection Process
The selection process for ICMR-NIHR Recruitment 2026 consists of the following stages:
- Document Verification - All original certificates including educational qualifications, experience certificates, caste/category certificates, age proof, and identity proof will be verified at the registration counter. Candidates with incomplete or invalid documents will not be allowed to proceed.
- Personal Interview/Walk-in Interview - Candidates who clear document verification will appear before an Expert Selection Committee for personal interview. The interview assesses technical knowledge related to the post, relevant experience, understanding of health research methodologies, communication skills, and overall suitability for the position. Marks are typically awarded out of 100.
- Merit List Preparation - Based on interview performance, a merit list will be prepared category-wise. Candidates scoring above the minimum qualifying marks (typically 50% for General/EWS/OBC and 45% for SC/ST/PwBD) will be considered.
- Final Selection and Offer - Selected candidates will be informed via email/phone and formal offer letters will be issued. Selection is provisional subject to verification of antecedents and medical fitness.
- Medical Examination - Selected candidates may be required to undergo medical examination to certify fitness for the post before final appointment on contractual basis.
Exam Pattern
Selection Pattern
This recruitment is based on Walk-in Interview only - no written examination.
Interview Assessment Pattern
| Assessment Area | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Knowledge & Qualification | 40 marks | 15-20 minutes per candidate |
| Relevant Experience & Skills | 30 marks | (Panel interview) |
| Communication & Presentation | 20 marks | - |
| General Awareness & Aptitude | 10 marks | - |
| Total | 100 marks | 15-20 minutes |
Minimum Qualifying Marks:
- General/EWS/OBC candidates: 50 marks out of 100
- SC/ST/PwBD candidates: 45 marks out of 100
Note: There is no negative marking as this is an interview-based selection. The interview panel evaluates overall suitability based on qualifications, experience, domain knowledge, and communication abilities.
Syllabus
Interview Topics and Assessment Areas
Since this is a walk-in interview without written examination, candidates should prepare for the following topics during personal interview:
Technical Knowledge (Post-Specific)
For Junior Consultant:
- Health research methodologies and protocols
- Public health programs and national health policies
- Healthcare management and administration
- Project planning, implementation and monitoring
- Data collection, analysis and report preparation
- Knowledge of ICMR guidelines and research ethics
- Understanding of rehabilitation services and disability studies
For Young Professional (ITI/Technical):
- Technical skills related to ITI trade certification
- Laboratory equipment maintenance and handling
- Workshop practices and safety protocols
- Basic computer applications (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Technical drawing and documentation
- Maintenance of records and registers
- Basic electrical/mechanical/electronics knowledge as per trade
General Awareness
- Current affairs related to health sector
- Government of India health schemes (Ayushman Bharat, National Health Mission)
- ICMR organization structure and functions
- Recent developments in medical research in India
- Digital India initiatives in healthcare
Communication and Soft Skills
- English language proficiency (speaking and writing)
- Report writing and documentation skills
- Teamwork and interpersonal skills
- Problem-solving abilities
- Time management and organizational skills
Domain Knowledge
- Understanding of job responsibilities mentioned in notification
- Relevant work experience in similar roles
- Knowledge of government rules and procedures
- Familiarity with office procedures and file management
Salary
Salary and Remuneration Structure
Typical / Indicative salary for contractual positions at ICMR institutes:
| Component | Junior Consultant | Young Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Consolidated Monthly Salary | ₹50,000 - ₹60,000 | ₹25,000 - ₹35,000 |
| Pay Structure | Consolidated (No separate allowances) | Consolidated (No separate allowances) |
| Annual Increment | As per contract renewal terms | As per contract renewal terms |
| In-Hand Salary (Monthly) | ₹48,000 - ₹58,000 (after TDS) | ₹24,000 - ₹34,000 (after TDS) |
Additional Benefits:
- Leave Entitlement: Earned leave as per ICMR rules (typically 15 days per year)
- Medical Facilities: Access to ICMR medical facilities for self (OPD treatment)
- Professional Development: Opportunity to participate in training programs and workshops
- Experience Certificate: Upon satisfactory completion of contract period
Note: These are contractual/project-based positions with consolidated remuneration. Regular government benefits like DA, HRA, TA are NOT applicable. Salary is subject to TDS deduction as per Income Tax rules. Contract period typically ranges from 1-3 years, renewable based on performance and project requirements.
Career Growth
Career progression for contractual positions at ICMR-NIHR depends on project extensions, performance reviews, and availability of regular positions. High-performing candidates may get contract renewals with revised compensation. Some contractual staff transition to regular ICMR positions by qualifying through ICMR Scientist/Technical Officer recruitment examinations. Additionally, the experience gained at ICMR-NIHR is valuable for pursuing opportunities in other government health research institutions, WHO, NGOs, and private healthcare organizations. Young Professionals can use this platform to build expertise and eventually apply for higher positions like Research Associates or Project Coordinators in research projects.
Admit Card
Since this is a walk-in interview recruitment, no formal admit card is issued. Candidates must bring the filled application form along with all original documents and self-attested photocopies to the interview venue on the specified date. It is advisable to carry a valid photo identity proof (Aadhaar Card/Voter ID/Driving License/Passport) for identification at the registration counter. Candidates should regularly check the official ICMR-NIHR website for any updates regarding interview schedule, venue details, or document requirements.
Result
The result of the walk-in interview will be declared within 15-20 days after completion of all interview sessions. Selected candidates will be notified individually via email and/or telephone to the contact details provided in their application. A provisional selection list may also be displayed on the official ICMR-NIHR website (www.nihr.icmr.org.in). Final appointment is subject to verification of documents, character antecedents, medical fitness, and fulfillment of all eligibility conditions. Candidates on the waitlist may be considered if selected candidates decline the offer or fail to join within the stipulated time.
Expected Cutoff
For walk-in interview based recruitment, the cutoff is determined by the minimum qualifying marks in the interview (typically 50% for General/EWS/OBC and 45% for SC/ST/PwBD categories). Since the number of candidates interviewed varies and selection depends on both performance and vacancy availability, the effective cutoff can be higher than minimum qualifying marks. For similar ICMR contractual positions, General category candidates typically need to score 60-70 marks out of 100 in interview to be in the safe zone for selection, while reserved category candidates need 50-60 marks. The actual cutoff depends on the quality of candidates appearing for walk-in and the selection committee's assessment standards.
Exam Centres
Interview Venue
The walk-in interview will be conducted at:
ICMR - National Institute of Health and Rehabilitation (NIHR)
Typically located in the National Capital Region or as specified in the official notification.
Candidates from all states of India are eligible to apply and attend the walk-in interview at the designated centre.
Regions Covered:
- North: Delhi NCR, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand
- South: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Puducherry
- East: West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha
- West: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh
- Northeast: Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Tripura, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim
- Central: All central government employees and candidates from across India
Note: Candidates must bear their own travel and accommodation expenses. No TA/DA will be provided for attending the walk-in interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the educational qualification required for these posts?
For Junior Consultant posts, candidates need a Bachelor's degree in relevant discipline with preferably post-graduation and 2-3 years experience in health sector. For Young Professional posts, ITI certificate in relevant trade, or Diploma in Engineering/Technology, or Bachelor's degree in relevant field is required. Fresh graduates and candidates with up to 2 years experience are eligible for Young Professional positions.
Is there any application fee for this recruitment?
No application fee is charged for walk-in interview based recruitment at ICMR-NIHR. This applies to all categories including General, OBC, EWS, SC, ST, PwBD, Women, and Ex-Servicemen candidates. However, candidates should verify this from the official notification when released.
How many total vacancies are available in this recruitment?
Total 12 posts are available in this recruitment including both Junior Consultant and Young Professional positions. The indicative distribution is approximately 6 UR, 3 OBC, 2 SC, and 1 ST vacancy. The exact position-wise and category-wise breakup will be mentioned in the official notification.
What is the expected salary for these positions?
Junior Consultant positions offer consolidated monthly salary of approximately ₹50,000 to ₹60,000, while Young Professional positions offer ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 per month on consolidated basis. These are contractual positions without separate allowances like DA, HRA. The in-hand salary will be subject to TDS deduction as per Income Tax rules.
How many attempts are allowed for this recruitment?
There is no restriction on the number of attempts for walk-in interview based contractual recruitment at ICMR. Candidates meeting the eligibility criteria, especially the age limit, can appear for the walk-in interview regardless of whether they have attempted ICMR recruitments previously. However, candidates must satisfy the age criteria on the date of interview.
Is there negative marking in the selection process?
No, there is no negative marking as this recruitment is based entirely on walk-in interview and document verification. There is no written examination conducted. The selection is based on interview performance out of 100 marks where technical knowledge, experience, communication skills, and general aptitude are assessed by the expert panel.
Is online application available or only walk-in mode?
This recruitment follows walk-in interview mode only. No prior online or offline application submission is required. Candidates need to download the application form from the official ICMR-NIHR website, fill it completely, attach required documents, and directly appear for the walk-in interview at the specified venue on the designated date and time with all original documents.
What are the stages in the selection process?
The selection process consists of: (1) Document Verification at registration counter, (2) Personal Interview/Walk-in Interview by Expert Selection Committee assessing technical knowledge, experience, and communication skills, (3) Merit List Preparation based on interview marks, (4) Final Selection and offer letter issuance to successful candidates, and (5) Medical Examination for selected candidates before joining on contractual basis.