Vacancies

Research Assistant – Microbiology and Soil Ecosystems

The National Institute of Fundamental Studies established by an Act of Parliament of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in 1981 pursues basic scientific research. Among its aims and objectives are to initiate, promote and conduct research and original investigations into fundamental studies with particular emphasis on mathematics, physical and chemical sciences, life sciences, social sciences and philosophy, each taken in the broadest sense.

Work type : contract basis

Location : NIFS Headquarters,Kandy

Division/ Research Programmes : Microbiology and Soil Ecosystems

Age Limit : Should be not less than 22 years and not more than 45 years

Selection Procedure : From a structured interview conducted by a panel appointed by the NIFS.

Published on : 2026-08-12

Application Deadline : 2026-08-26

Qualifications

Applicants should possess:

  1. A four-year Degree with specialization in the relevant subject with First or Second Class (Upper or Lower Division) Honours

OR

  1. A Degree with the relevant subjects and a Postgraduate Degree in the relevant subject with a research component.

Relevant Subjects

Project: Microbiology and Soil Ecosystems

Relevant Subjects: Botany, Plant Science, Agriculture or Environmental Science

Knowledge in Remote Sensing & GIS will be preferred. Field-oriented research experience in Soil Science, Forestry or Environmental Science will be an added advantage.

Remuneration

Employment will be on a contract basis.

Research Assistant – Rs. 85,305/- + Government Allowance

As per Circular 06/2025:

  • Salary as at 01.01.2026 – Rs. 76,667/-

  • Salary as at 01.01.2027 – Rs. 85,305/-

 Note:

(a) An applicant who is eligible under (2), (3) above could be considered for appointment only if applicants qualified under (1) above are either not available or evaluated and considered as unsatisfactory by the selection committee. Such appointment would require a special justification.

(b) Please note that it is the NIFS policy to appoint only the Research Assistants who register for a M.Phil/PhD degree and also work for a minimum of two years.

(c)All required details should be duly completed. Incomplete applications will be rejected.

(d) Applicants should fill and submit the online form which is available in www.nifs.ac.lk

Benefits

Employees will contribute 10% of their salary to the NIFS Staff Provident Fund, while the Institute will contribute 15%. In addition, the Institute will contribute 3% of the salary to the ETF.

Application Deadline

26.08.2026

How to Apply

Complete and submit your application online:

Online application form
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