1. Introduction

If you have just completed your Pharm.D or M.Pharm (Pharmacy Practice) and are standing at that uncertain crossroads-between further studies, hospital exposure, or industry-this recruitment deserves your attention. The Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), Kolkata, is not an ordinary hospital. It is a premier cancer care and research institute where clinical exposure is intense, structured, and deeply meaningful.

This opportunity is especially relevant for pharmacy graduates who want hands-on clinical oncology experience rather than purely academic or industrial roles. With only one vacancy, this is not about mass recruitment. It is about fit, seriousness, and long-term intent.

2. Key Details Table (Verified from Official Source)

ParticularDetails
Recruiting InstituteChittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), Kolkata
Advertisement Number02/2026
Post NameStipendiary Intern - Clinical Pharmacist
Number of Vacancies1
Application ModeOffline (via email)
Application Start Date15 January 2026
Last Date to Apply31 January 2026 (up to 5:00 PM)
Monthly Stipend₹20,000
AccommodationFree hostel during internship
Official Websitecnci.ac.in

3. Post-Wise Eligibility - What It Actually Means

Required Qualification (Explained Clearly)

  • Pharm.D OR
  • M.Pharm in Pharmacy Practice,
    from an institution approved by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI).

In practical terms, CNCI is looking for candidates who already understand:

  • Clinical pharmacology
  • Drug therapy monitoring
  • Hospital ward exposure
  • Patient counselling basics

This is not suitable for:

  • B.Pharm-only candidates
  • M.Pharm in non-clinical specialisations (Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology, etc.)
  • Candidates looking for desk-based or industry roles

Freshers are explicitly allowed, which signals that attitude and fundamentals matter more than experience.

4. How to Apply - Guided Walkthrough (With Pitfalls)

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Download the prescribed application format from the CNCI website.
  2. Fill it carefully-typed, not handwritten.
  3. Attach scanned copies of:
    • Educational certificates
    • PCI approval proof (if applicable)
    • ID proof
    • Category certificate (if any)
  4. Pay the application fee (if applicable) to the specified SBI account.
  5. Email the complete application to the official CNCI email ID.
  6. Mention the post name clearly in the email subject line.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection

  • Forgetting to mention the post name in the email subject
  • Missing fee payment proof
  • Sending incomplete documents
  • Applying after 5:00 PM on the last date
  • Using casual or unprofessional email language

With just one post, administrative discipline matters.

5. Salary, Growth & Career Outlook (Often Ignored, But Crucial)

  • Stipend: ₹20,000 per month
  • Accommodation: Free hostel (a major saving in Kolkata)

This is not a high-paying role, but that is not its purpose. The real value lies in:

  • Exposure to oncology pharmacotherapy
  • Working alongside oncologists and senior pharmacists
  • Strong credential for:
    • Hospital pharmacist roles
    • Clinical research
    • Pharm.D residencies
    • Higher studies or fellowships

Candidates who perform well often leverage such internships into long-term hospital careers or research roles, even if not immediately at CNCI.

6. Preparation Plan & Study Strategy

Since there is no written exam announced, preparation should focus on shortlisting and interview readiness.

2-Week Focus Plan

  • Revise:
    • Oncology basics (chemotherapy classes, adverse effects)
    • Clinical pharmacokinetics
    • Drug-drug interactions
  • Read:
    • Recent oncology treatment protocols
    • Basics of supportive cancer care
  • Prepare:
    • A clear explanation of why you want clinical oncology exposure
    • One real patient-care scenario you handled or studied
  • Katzung’s Clinical Pharmacology (selected chapters)
  • ASCO/ESMO basic oncology guidelines (introductory level)
  • Hospital pharmacy practice notes from your course

7. Pros & Cons (Honest Assessment)

Pros

  • Prestigious central institute exposure
  • Oncology-focused clinical learning
  • Free accommodation reduces living cost
  • Strong resume value despite internship status

Cons

  • Only one vacancy (high competition)
  • Stipend is modest
  • Work environment can be emotionally demanding
  • Location limited to Kolkata

This role is ideal for serious clinical aspirants, not those chasing quick salary growth.

8. Checklist for Applicants

Before you click “send” on that email, double-check:

  • Correct eligibility (Pharm.D / M.Pharm Pharmacy Practice)
  • Application format used
  • All certificates attached
  • Fee paid (if applicable)
  • Correct subject line
  • Email sent before deadline

One small mistake can cost you this opportunity.

9. Conclusion

This CNCI Stipendiary Intern position is not a mass government job. It is a focused clinical apprenticeship at one of India’s most respected cancer institutes. If your long-term vision includes hospital pharmacy, oncology, or clinical research, this is a meaningful stepping stone.

Apply only if you are clear about why you want this role. Half-hearted applications rarely survive shortlisting-especially when there is only one seat.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (Practical Doubts Answered)

Q1. Is this a permanent government job?
No. This is a stipend-based internship, initially for one year, extendable based on performance and institute needs.

Q2. Can final-year students apply?
Not mentioned. Unless you already hold the required qualification, you should assume you are not eligible.

Q3. Is there a written exam?
No written test is specified. Selection is through shortlisting and interview.

Q4. Is hostel compulsory?
No, but it is provided free. Many outstation candidates prefer it.

Q5. What if some details are unclear in the notification?
Regularly check cnci.ac.in and use the official contact email. Avoid assumptions.