Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), South India Centre of Wildlife Institute of India; Moongilpallam, Anaikatty (PO), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu – 641108, has notified a vacancy of Project Associate-I (Ecology) on a purely temporary basis for the Project, ‘Comprehensive Conservation Plan for the Endemic and Tree Cavity Nesting Birds of Nicobar Archipelago’.

The duration of the Project will be until March 31, 2026, which is likely to be extended.

Selected persons will be expected (i) to conduct intensive field surveys for endemic and tree cavity nesting birds in the Nicobar Islands, (ii) to collate and analyse field data on endemic and cavity-nesting birds of the island ecosystems, and (iii) to help the Project Investigator and the senior project staff to achieve their project goals and other institutional activities.

Essential Qualifications: Applicant should hold a Post-Graduate degree (M.Sc.) or its equivalent with a minimum of 55% marks in life sciences or environmental sciences (Zoology/ Wildlife Biology/ Wildlife Science/ Forestry/ Conservation Biology/ Biodiversity Studies/ Ecological Sciences/ Environmental Studies or any other allied disciplines) from a recognised university.

Desirable Qualifications: (i) Research experience in studying avian ecology and conservation; (ii) proficiency in bird survey methods and sampling design, and familiarity with ecological concepts related to island ecosystems; (iii) willingness to reside in remote locations with challenging conditions, and travel extensively by both road and sea between the islands; and (iv) proficiency in English (speaking, reading, and writing) and Hindi (speaking).

Upper age limit as on 18.01.2026 is 35 years. The upper age limit may be relaxed as per the Government of India norms [up to 5 years in the case of candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe/Physically Handicapped categories, and up to 3 years in the case of OBC candidates].

Monthly Emoluments: Rs. 37,000/- + HRA for CSIR-UGC NET (Lectureship)/GATE qualified candidates and Rs. 30,000/- + HRA for non-NET/GATE qualified candidates.

Application can be submitted online at http://www.sacon.in/careers/, latest by 18.01.2026. The announcement is also available here.

The application form should be filled out and submitted online along with self-attested scanned PDF copies of all supporting documents and testimonials, such as copies of certificates, mark lists, and testimonials of essential and desirable qualifications, research experience, date of birth, community, extracurricular activities, etc., uploaded.

Only the shortlisted candidates will be invited for the Online Interview through which the final selection of candidates will be made. Details of the Interview, including the exact date, time and online link, will be individually intimated to the shortlisted candidates by email.

If selected, all original documents in support of qualifications, age, and experience should be produced by the candidate for verification before joining SACON. The hard copies of the filled-in application form, along with self-attested true copies of all supporting documents, should also be submitted at the time of joining.

Those applying should possess all the Essential Qualifications (with originals of supporting documents) as on the date of the application deadline.

Selected candidates will be provided with hostel accommodation at SACON as per availability. Other allowances and benefits to the research personnel will be admissible as per the rules.

For details, visit http://www.sacon.in/