DRDL Recruitment 2026 – 16 Junior Research Fellow Posts
Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) is recruiting 16 Junior Research Fellows. Eligible candidates with a B.Tech./B.E. First Class and valid GATE score, or M.E./M.Tech. First Class can attend the walk-in interview from June 1 to June 5, 2026. The monthly stipend is Rs. 37,000/- plus HRA.
| Organisation | Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) |
|---|---|
| Post Name | Junior Research Fellow |
| Total Vacancies | 16 |
| Last Date | |
| Qualification | B.Tech./B.E. First Class with GATE or M.E./M.Tech. First Class |
| Salary / Pay Scale | Rs. 37,000/- Per Month + HRA |
| Category | Defence Jobs·Central Government Jobs·Research & University Jobs·Engineering Jobs |
| District | Hyderabad |
Junior Research Fellow Vacancy Details
Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) has announced vacancies for the position of Junior Research Fellow (JRF). A total of 16 posts are available across different engineering disciplines.
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF-01) Mechanical Engineering: 9 Posts
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF-02) Aeronautical / Aerospace Engineering: 4 Posts
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF-03) Electronics Communication Engineering: 3 Posts
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the following educational qualifications for the respective disciplines:
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF-01) Mechanical Engineering: B.Tech./B.E. with First Class in Mechanical Engineering from a UGC recognized University with a valid GATE score (Paper code: ME), OR M.E./M.Tech. with First-Class in Mechanical Engineering from a UGC recognized University and B.Tech/B.E (Mechanical Engineering) with First Class from a UGC recognized University.
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF-02) Aeronautical / Aerospace Engineering: B.Tech./B.E. with First Class in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering from a UGC recognized University with a valid GATE score (Paper code: AE), OR M.E./M.Tech. with First-Class in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering from a UGC recognized University and B.Tech/B.E (Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering) with First Class from a UGC recognized University.
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF-03) Electronics Communication Engineering: B.Tech./B.E. with First Class in Electronics Communication Engineering from a UGC recognized University with a valid GATE score (Paper code: ECE), OR M.E./M.Tech. with First-Class in Electronics Communication Engineering from a UGC recognized University and B.Tech/B.E (Electronics Communication Engineering) with First Class from a UGC recognized University.
Age Limit & Relaxation
The maximum age limit for all Junior Research Fellow posts is 28 years. Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories: SC/ST candidates are eligible for a 5-year relaxation, and OBC candidates are eligible for a 3-year relaxation.
Application Fee
There is no application fee for any category (General/OBC, SC/ST) for this recruitment drive.
Salary & Pay Scale
Selected candidates for the Junior Research Fellow positions will receive a stipend of Rs. 37,000/- per month, along with House Rent Allowance (HRA).
Selection Process
The selection process involves two stages:
- Shortlisting: Candidates will be shortlisted based on their valid GATE score and the percentage of marks obtained in their qualifying degree.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview.
About Defence Research and Development Laboratory
The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), a premier establishment under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), plays a pivotal role in India’s defence technology advancement. Established to foster indigenous research and development in critical defence areas, DRDL is dedicated to designing, developing, and delivering state-of-the-art weapon systems and technologies for the Indian Armed Forces. Its mission is to achieve self-reliance in defence technologies and to provide technological superiority to the nation’s defence capabilities. Located in Hyderabad, Telangana, DRDL is at the forefront of innovation, contributing significantly to national security. The laboratory focuses on a wide spectrum of defence research, including missile technology, guidance systems, and related advanced technologies. DRDO, as the parent organisation, was established in 1958 and functions under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. DRDL, as a constituent laboratory, benefits from the vast resources and expertise of the DRDO network, fostering a collaborative environment for scientific and technological breakthroughs. Career prospects at DRDL are exceptional, offering scientists and researchers opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects, contribute to national security, and grow professionally in a challenging yet rewarding environment. The laboratory encourages a culture of continuous learning and innovation, providing ample scope for professional development and career advancement in various fields of defence science and engineering.
How to Apply
This recruitment is being conducted through a walk-in interview. Interested and eligible candidates should follow these steps:
- Carefully read the official notification to understand all requirements.
- Report to the interview venue as per the specified reporting time.
- Carry all original documents, including ID proof, educational certificates, experience certificates (if applicable), and category certificates (if applicable), along with one set of self-attested photocopies.
- Bring a duly filled application form if required by the notification.
- Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before attending the interview.
- Arrive at the venue well in advance to complete registration formalities.
- Carry extra passport-size photographs for submission if needed.
Important Dates
- Walk-in Interview JRF-01 (Mechanical Engineering): 01 June 2026, 02 June 2026, 03 June 2026
- Walk-in Interview JRF-02 (Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering): 04 June 2026
- Walk-in Interview JRF-03 (Electronics Communication Engineering): 05 June 2026
Important Links
| Link Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Click here |
| Official Website | Click here |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) Junior Research Fellow 2026?
Candidates who have completed B.Tech./B.E. with First Class in a relevant engineering discipline and possess a valid GATE score, or have completed M.E./M.Tech. with First Class in a relevant engineering discipline and a B.Tech./B.E. with First Class are eligible to apply.
What is the salary for Junior Research Fellow posts at DRDL?
Selected candidates for the Junior Research Fellow positions will receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 37,000/- along with House Rent Allowance (HRA).
What is the selection process for DRDL Junior Research Fellow 2026?
The selection process involves shortlisting candidates based on their valid GATE score and the percentage of marks in their qualifying degree, followed by a personal interview.
Is Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) a Central or State Government organisation?
Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) is a premier establishment under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which functions under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Therefore, it is a Central Government organisation.