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📖 Overview of Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner

Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, officially known as Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University (SKRAU), stands as a premier institution dedicated to advancing agricultural education and research in India's arid northwest. Established on August 1, 1987, under the Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner Act, it was renamed in 2016 to honor Swami Keshwanand. Located in Bikaner, Rajasthan, the university spans over 17,000 hectares across six constituent colleges, serving as a hub for higher education in agriculture tailored to semi-arid conditions.

The university's mission revolves around sustainable farming practices, livestock improvement, and rural development, addressing challenges like water scarcity and desertification prevalent in Rajasthan. With a focus on practical training, SKRAU equips students and professionals for careers in agronomy, horticulture, dairy science, and more. Jobs at Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner attract educators, researchers, and administrators passionate about contributing to India's food security and agricultural innovation.

History and Development

SKRAU traces its roots to the post-independence era when agricultural universities gained prominence in India, inspired by the model of Punjab Agricultural University. Initially part of Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, it became independent to specialize in crop sciences suited to the Thar Desert region. Key milestones include the establishment of colleges in 1988, expansion to include Home Science and Agribusiness in the 1990s, and recent advancements in biotechnology research centers.

Over the years, the university has produced thousands of graduates who lead in government departments, research institutes like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and private agribusiness firms. Its growth reflects Rajasthan's commitment to transforming arid lands into productive farmlands through education and extension services.

Academic Programs and Departments

SKRAU offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across six colleges: College of Agriculture, College of Home Science, College of Horticulture, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, College of Agri-Business Management, and Post-Graduate Institute of Agri-Business Management. Departments cover Agronomy, Soil Science, Plant Pathology, Entomology, Animal Husbandry, and Dairy Technology, emphasizing region-specific needs like millet cultivation and camel rearing.

These programs prepare candidates for specialized jobs at Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, such as teaching positions in higher ed faculty jobs or research in sustainable agriculture.

Types of Jobs Available

Jobs at Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner span teaching, research, and administration. Common openings include:

• Teaching Faculty: Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor in various agricultural disciplines.
• Research Positions: Scientist, Project Associates on ICAR-funded projects.
• Administrative Roles: Registrar, Finance Officer, Extension Specialists.
• Technical Staff: Lab Technicians, Farm Managers.

For a full breakdown of university job types, visit university job types. These roles contribute to the university's extension programs reaching over 500 villages in Rajasthan.

Definitions

To understand jobs at Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, key terms include:

• Agronomy: The science of crop production and soil management, focusing on field crops like pearl millet and cluster bean suited to arid zones.
• Extension Services: Outreach programs disseminating research to farmers, a core duty for many faculty positions.
• ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research): National body funding research; qualifications often require ICAR recognition.
• UGC-NET: National Eligibility Test by University Grants Commission for lecturer eligibility.
• Arid Zone Agriculture: Farming techniques for low-rainfall areas, central to SKRAU's expertise.

Required Academic Qualifications

Faculty jobs demand stringent qualifications aligned with UGC and ICAR norms. Assistant Professors need a Master's degree with at least 55% marks (50% for reserved categories) in the relevant field and must qualify UGC-NET or equivalent like ICAR-NET. A PhD is mandatory for direct recruitment at higher levels or within five years of appointment.

Professors require 10 years of experience, including publications in peer-reviewed journals. Veterinary roles need BVSc & AH with MVSc/PhD. Explore higher ed jobs for similar requirements across institutions.

Research Focus or Expertise Needed

SKRAU prioritizes research in drought-resistant crops, water harvesting, bio-fertilizers, and animal nutrition for desert conditions. Expertise in molecular breeding, remote sensing for crop monitoring, and climate-resilient livestock is highly valued. Ongoing projects include hybrid seed development for bajra (pearl millet) and goat improvement programs, funded by ICAR and state government.

Preferred Experience

Candidates with 5+ years of teaching, 10+ publications (h-index preferred), and grants from DBT or DST stand out. Experience in farmer outreach or international collaborations enhances applications. For research assistant jobs, prior lab work or field trials are essential. See research jobs for preparation tips.

Skills and Competencies

Essential skills include:

• Proficiency in statistical software like R or SAS for data analysis.
• Grant writing and project management.
• Teaching via modern methods like e-learning platforms.
• Communication for extension work with rural stakeholders.
• Knowledge of sustainable practices amid climate change.

Soft skills like teamwork and adaptability to field conditions are crucial in Bikaner's harsh climate.

Application Process and Tips

Monitor the university website (raubikaner.org) or university jobs portals for notifications. Submit online applications with bio-data, attested copies of degrees, experience certificates, and publication list. Pay fee via demand draft.

Tips:

• Tailor CV to highlight Rajasthan-specific research; use free resume template.
• Prepare for written test, presentation, and interview focusing on teaching demo.
• Network via ICAR conferences.
• Apply early; positions fill fast due to regional demand.
• Follow up politely post-submission.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

SKRAU adheres to India's reservation policy: 15% SC, 7.5% ST, 27% OBC, 10% EWS. It runs women scientist schemes, scholarships for underrepresented groups, and gender sensitization programs. The Home Science College promotes women's roles in agriculture, with initiatives like Krishi Vigyan Kendra training rural women.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

The 500-acre main campus in Bikaner features modern hostels, faculty quarters, a central library with 1 lakh+ volumes, sports complex, hospital, and banks. Employees enjoy 30-day earned leave, medical facilities, and pension under NPS. Cultural fests, yoga centers, and proximity to the desert foster a unique lifestyle. Research farms allow hands-on work, while Bikaner's heritage adds recreational value. Family-friendly policies support relocation from across India.

Why Pursue Jobs Here?

Joining SKRAU means impacting Rajasthan's agriculture, which employs 60% of the population. With ICAR accreditation and NIRF rankings improving, career growth is promising. Competitive pay, housing, and research freedom attract talent. For career advice, check higher ed career advice, higher ed jobs, university jobs, or post your profile via recruitment services on AcademicJobs.com.

Recent hires have advanced projects on drip irrigation, boosting yields by 30% in trials. As India pushes for India agricultural self-reliance, SKRAU roles offer stability and purpose.