About the Recruitment
The State Pollution Control Board, Odisha (OSPCB), has announced a recruitment drive for temporary positions within its R&D Wing, specifically for the Coastal Management Cell located in Patia, Bhubaneswar. This initiative is part of two significant research projects funded by the OSPCB's Fly Ash Consortium. The projects aim to address environmental concerns related to fly ash management and its potential for beneficial reuse. The recruitment seeks to fill 5 vacancies for Junior Research Fellow (JRF), Lab Technician (LT), and Field Assistant (FA) roles. These positions are purely temporary and will conclude with the duration of the respective projects, which is set for two years. Interested and eligible candidates are encouraged to apply via email by 31 July 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals with a background in Chemistry or Environmental Science to contribute to critical environmental research in Odisha.
The two research projects under which these positions are offered are:
- Project-1: "Integrated Bio-stabilization of Heavy Metals in Fly Ash-Amended Soil: A Scalable Biotech-Agronomic Solution for Odisha"
- Project-2: "Biotransformation of fly ash into safe bio fertilizer through biological heavy metal immobilization"
These projects highlight OSPCB's commitment to sustainable environmental practices and innovative solutions for industrial waste management, particularly focusing on the utilization of fly ash. The selected candidates will play a crucial role in conducting research, laboratory analysis, and field work to achieve the objectives of these projects.
Post-wise and Category-wise Vacancy Details
The State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, has released a notification for a total of 5 temporary vacancies across three different posts. These positions are crucial for the successful execution of the ongoing research projects related to fly ash management. Candidates should carefully review the number of available positions for each role before submitting their applications.
The distribution of vacancies is as follows:
| Post Name |
Number of Vacancies |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
3 |
| Lab Technician (LT) |
1 |
| Field Assistant (FA) |
1 |
These vacancies are open to eligible candidates who meet the specified educational qualifications and age criteria. The selection process will aim to identify individuals who can effectively contribute to the research objectives of the projects.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates applying for the various positions under the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, must fulfill specific educational qualifications and other requirements as outlined in the official notification. These criteria ensure that applicants possess the necessary academic background and skills to perform the duties associated with each role effectively.
The detailed eligibility requirements for each post are as follows:
| Post Name |
Educational Qualification |
Other Requirements |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
Applicants must hold an M.Sc. degree with a minimum of 60% marks. The degree should be in either Chemistry or Environmental Science, obtained from a university or institute recognized by the relevant authorities. |
Candidates are also required to possess good computer knowledge, which is essential for data analysis, report generation, and general research tasks. |
| Lab Technician (LT) |
Candidates must have a B.Sc. degree with a minimum of 50% marks. The degree should be specifically in Chemistry, obtained from a recognized university or institute. |
No specific experience or additional requirements are mentioned for this post beyond the academic qualification. |
| Field Assistant (FA) |
Applicants for this position must possess a B.Sc. degree with a minimum of 50% marks. The degree should be in Chemistry, obtained from a recognized university or institute. |
No specific experience or additional requirements are mentioned for this post beyond the academic qualification. |
It is crucial for all prospective applicants to ensure they meet these criteria before proceeding with their application to avoid disqualification. The percentages mentioned are strict minimums, and candidates should be prepared to provide proof of their qualifications during the verification process.
Age Limit and Relaxation
The State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, has set an age limit for candidates applying to the Junior Research Fellow, Lab Technician, and Field Assistant positions. Adherence to these age criteria is mandatory for all applicants, though relaxations are provided for specific categories as per government norms.
The general upper age limit for all posts is
28 years. This means that candidates must not be older than 28 years as of the specified cut-off date (which is typically the last date of application, though not explicitly stated for age calculation in this notification).
However, in accordance with government regulations, certain categories of candidates are eligible for age relaxation. The upper age limit is relaxable by up to 5 years for candidates belonging to the following categories:
- Scheduled Caste (SC)
- Scheduled Tribe (ST)
- Other Backward Classes (OBC)
- Persons with Disabilities (PH)
- Women candidates
Candidates seeking age relaxation must provide valid certificates issued by the competent authority to substantiate their claim during the application and verification process. Failure to produce such documents may result in the rejection of their application. It is advisable for all applicants to calculate their age carefully and ensure they fall within the prescribed limits, including any applicable relaxations.
Application Fee and Payment Method
The official recruitment notification released by the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, for the Junior Research Fellow, Lab Technician, and Field Assistant positions does not specify any application fee. This implies that candidates are not required to pay any charges to submit their applications for these temporary posts.
Therefore, applicants can proceed with preparing and submitting their application forms without worrying about any financial transaction. This can be a significant advantage for many job seekers, making the application process more accessible. Candidates should, however, ensure that they follow all other instructions meticulously, such as submitting the application form and required documents via email within the stipulated deadline. Any updates regarding application fees, if introduced later, would typically be communicated through the official website, but as per the current notification, no fee is applicable.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Junior Research Fellow, Lab Technician, and Field Assistant positions at the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, is designed to identify suitable candidates based on their qualifications, experience, and performance in an interview. The process is straightforward and involves a few key stages.
The primary stages of the selection process are:
- Application Submission: The initial step for all aspiring candidates is to submit their application. This involves downloading the prescribed application form (Annexure-I) from the official website, filling it out completely and accurately, and attaching all necessary scanned documents. The completed application, along with the supporting documents, must be sent via email to research@ospcboard.org. It is crucial to ensure that the email subject line clearly states "APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF [Post Name]" followed by the Advertisement No. and Date, as specified in the notification. The deadline for email submission is 31 July 2026, by 5:30 PM.
- Shortlisting of Candidates: After the application deadline, the submitted applications will be thoroughly reviewed by the OSPCB recruitment committee. Candidates will be shortlisted based on their fulfillment of the essential educational qualifications, age limits, and other criteria mentioned in the advertisement. Only those candidates who meet all the eligibility requirements will be considered for the next stage.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a personal interview. The date, time, and venue for the interview will be communicated exclusively through email. It is imperative for candidates to regularly check their registered email addresses for updates. During the interview, candidates are required to bring all their original certificates, starting from 10th standard onwards, along with any experience certificates they may possess. Additionally, they must present a detailed biodata, two recent passport-size colour photographs, self-attested photocopies of all certificates and mark sheets, proof of age, and a valid photo ID such as an Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Driving License for verification. Failure to produce any of these original documents or required proofs may lead to the cancellation of their candidature. The interview aims to assess the candidate's knowledge, skills, suitability for the project, and communication abilities.
The final selection will be based on the candidate's performance in the interview and the verification of their documents. The positions are temporary and co-terminus with the project duration, which is approximately two years.
Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The recruitment process for Junior Research Fellow, Lab Technician, and Field Assistant positions at the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, does not include a written examination. The selection will primarily be based on an interview, following the shortlisting of eligible candidates. Therefore, there is no specific exam pattern or syllabus to prepare for in the traditional sense.
Candidates should instead focus on preparing for the interview by reviewing their academic knowledge, particularly in Chemistry and Environmental Science, depending on the post applied for. They should be ready to discuss their project work, research interests, computer skills, and any relevant experience. Familiarity with the objectives of the two research projects ("Integrated Bio-stabilization of Heavy Metals in Fly Ash-Amended Soil" and "Biotransformation of fly ash into safe bio fertilizer") would also be beneficial.
Preparation for the interview should include:
- Subject Knowledge: Revisiting core concepts in Chemistry and Environmental Science relevant to the projects.
- Project Understanding: Gaining a clear understanding of the research projects, their goals, and potential methodologies.
- Computer Skills: Being prepared to demonstrate or discuss proficiency in relevant software or tools.
- Communication Skills: Practicing clear and concise communication to articulate ideas and answers effectively.
- Document Preparation: Ensuring all original and self-attested copies of academic and experience certificates, along with a biodata and photo ID, are ready for verification.
Since the interview is the sole assessment stage, candidates should dedicate their efforts to presenting themselves as competent and enthusiastic contributors to the research projects.
Pay Scale and Benefits
The State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, offers attractive monthly remuneration for the temporary positions of Junior Research Fellow, Lab Technician, and Field Assistant. These salaries are designed to compensate candidates for their valuable contribution to the research projects.
The monthly remuneration details for each post are as follows:
| Post Name |
Monthly Remuneration |
Additional Benefits |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
Rs. 27,000/- |
House Rent Allowance (HRA) at 16% (as admissible) |
| Lab Technician (LT) |
Rs. 18,000/- |
Consolidated (no additional HRA mentioned) |
| Field Assistant (FA) |
Rs. 18,000/- |
Consolidated (no additional HRA mentioned) |
For Junior Research Fellows, the HRA component will be calculated based on the basic remuneration of Rs. 27,000/-, providing an additional financial benefit. The remuneration for Lab Technicians and Field Assistants is consolidated, meaning it includes all allowances and is a fixed monthly amount.
It is important to note that these positions are purely temporary and co-terminus with the project duration, which is approximately two years. The terms of engagement also state that the engagement can be terminated at any time without prior notice or assigning any reason. Furthermore, if an engaged person resigns or quits, they must provide one month's notice, failing which one month's salary will be deducted or deposited by them. These terms ensure clarity regarding the nature of employment and financial responsibilities.
How to Apply — Step by Step
Applying for the Junior Research Fellow, Lab Technician, and Field Assistant positions at the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, is a straightforward process conducted entirely through email. Candidates must ensure they follow each step carefully to ensure their application is successfully submitted before the deadline.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply:
- Visit the Official Website: First, candidates should visit the official website of the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, at https://ospcboard.odisha.gov.in. This is where the Annexure-I application form and other detailed information regarding the posts are available.
- Download the Application Form: Locate and download the "Annexure-I" application form from the official website. This form is essential for your application.
- Fill the Application Form: Print out the downloaded Annexure-I form and fill in all the required details accurately and completely. Ensure that all personal information, educational qualifications, and any other relevant data are entered correctly. Pay special attention to sections requiring details in capitals.
- Affix Photograph: Affix a recent passport-size colour photograph in the designated space on the application form.
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents as specified in the notification. These typically include:
- Educational certificates and mark sheets (from 10th standard onwards)
- Experience certificates (if any)
- Proof of age (e.g., 10th pass certificate)
- Valid photo ID (Aadhaar Card/Voter ID/Driving License)
- Caste certificate (for SC/ST/OBC candidates seeking age relaxation)
- Disability certificate (for PH candidates)
- Self-Attest and Scan Documents: Make photocopies of all the gathered documents. Self-attest each photocopy by signing them. Then, scan all the filled application form (Annexure-I) and the self-attested photocopies of the documents into a single PDF file or multiple clear image files. Ensure the scanned documents are legible.
- Compose the Email: Open your email client and compose a new email.
- Enter Recipient Email Address: Send the email to the designated address for applications: research@ospcboard.org.
- Set the Subject Line: It is crucial to use the correct subject line for your email. The notification specifies: "APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF........................" along with the Advertisement No. and Date. For example, if applying for Junior Research Fellow, your subject line should be: "APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF JUNIOR RESEARCH FELLOW, Advt. No. 10864, Date 17.07.2026". Replace "JUNIOR RESEARCH FELLOW" with the specific post you are applying for.
- Attach Scanned Documents: Attach the scanned application form (Annexure-I) and all self-attested photocopies of your documents to the email.
- Send the Email: Send the email before the deadline of 31 July 2026, 5:30 PM. It is advisable to send the application well in advance to avoid any last-minute technical issues.
Candidates are advised to keep a copy of the sent email and all submitted documents for their records. Only applications submitted via email to the specified address with the correct subject line will be considered.
Documents Required
Candidates applying for the Junior Research Fellow, Lab Technician, and Field Assistant positions with the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, must prepare a comprehensive set of documents for both the application submission and the subsequent interview stage. Ensuring all required documents are in order is critical for a successful application.
For the initial email application, candidates need to scan and attach the following self-attested photocopies:
- Duly filled Application Form (Annexure-I)
- Educational Certificates (10th, +2 Sc., B.Sc., M.Sc., M.Tech/M.Phil., PhD, etc., as applicable)
- Mark Sheets for all academic qualifications
- Proof of Age (e.g., 10th standard certificate)
- Caste Certificate (if applying under SC/ST/OBC category for age relaxation)
- Persons with Disabilities (PH) Certificate (if applicable)
- Experience Certificates (if any, relevant to the post)
- Valid Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Driving License)
For the interview stage, shortlisted candidates must bring all the following documents in their original form, along with a biodata and two passport-size photographs:
- All original certificates from 10th standard onwards (including mark sheets and degree certificates)
- Original Experience Certificates (if any)
- A detailed Biodata/Curriculum Vitae
- Two recent passport-size colour photographs
- Self-attested copies of all certificates and mark sheets (as submitted during the application)
- Original Proof of Age
- Original Valid Photo ID (Aadhaar Card/Voter ID/Driving License)
- Original Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Original Persons with Disabilities (PH) Certificate (if applicable)
It is explicitly stated that candidates must bring all original certificates from 10th onwards and experience certificates (if any) to the interview, without which their candidature will not be considered. Therefore, thorough preparation of these documents is paramount.
Important Dates
Staying informed about the key dates for the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, recruitment is essential for all applicants. Missing any deadline could lead to the rejection of the application.
Here are the important dates related to this recruitment drive:
| Event |
Date |
| Official Notification Release Date |
17 July 2026 |
| Last Date for Application Submission via Email |
31 July 2026 (by 5:30 PM) |
| Date for Interview Communication |
To be communicated to shortlisted candidates via email only |
Candidates are strongly advised to submit their applications well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute technical difficulties or network issues. Regular checking of the official website and their registered email inbox is recommended for any updates regarding the interview schedule.
Important Links
For further details and to access the application form, candidates should refer to the official resources provided by the State Pollution Control Board, Odisha.
Candidates are encouraged to visit the official website for Annexure-I (application form), detailed educational qualifications, experience requirements, and other criteria for the posts. All communications regarding the interview will be sent to the email address provided by the candidate in their application.