DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026 – 21 Research Associate & JRF Posts
Research Centre Imarat (DRDO RCI) has announced 21 vacancies for Research Associate and Junior Research Fellow positions. Candidates with relevant engineering or science degrees and valid GATE/NET/SLET scores are eligible to apply. The application process is offline, and the deadline for submission is 13 September 2026. Selected candidates will receive a stipend as per Government of India norms.
| Organisation | Research Centre Imarat (DRDO RCI) |
|---|---|
| Post Name | Research Associate (RA) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
| Total Vacancies | 21 |
| Last Date | |
| Qualification | Ph.D, M.Tech/M.E/M.Sc with research experience, or B.E/B.Tech with valid GATE score, or M.Sc with NET/GATE/SLET. |
| Salary / Pay Scale | Stipend as per Government of India norms. |
| Category | Central Government Jobs·Engineering Jobs·Research & University Jobs |
| District | Hyderabad |
Research Centre Imarat (DRDO RCI) Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Total Posts |
|---|---|
| Research Associate (RA) | 2 |
| JRF - Electronics & Communication Engg. | 5 |
| JRF - Electrical & Electronics Engg. | 3 |
| JRF - Computer Science & Engg. / IT | 2 |
| JRF - Mechanical Engg. | 5 |
| JRF - Aeronautical / Aerospace Engg. | 2 |
| JRF - Chemistry | 1 |
| JRF - Metallurgy | 1 |
| Total | 21 |
Eligibility Criteria
- Research Associate (RA): Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline or a First Class M.Tech/M.Sc with proven research experience in areas like Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Structural & Thermal Analysis, Power Electronics, RF & Microwave, or Experimental Quantum Optics.
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Candidates must possess a First Class B.E/B.Tech degree with a valid GATE score, or an M.E/M.Tech degree, or an M.Sc degree with valid NET/GATE/SLET qualifications.
Age Limit & Relaxation
The maximum age limit for all applicants is 35 years. Age relaxation is provided as per Government of India norms: 5 years for SC/ST candidates and 3 years for OBC candidates.
Application Fee
There is no application fee for the DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026. The application process is free of cost for all categories.
Salary & Pay Scale
Selected candidates for both Research Associate (RA) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF) positions will be provided with a monthly stipend as per the prevailing Government of India norms for research personnel.
Selection Process
The selection process for these positions consists of the following stages:
- Scrutiny of applications based on eligibility.
- Written test for shortlisted candidates.
- Personal interview.
- Document verification.
About Research Centre Imarat
Research Centre Imarat (RCI), located in Hyderabad, Telangana, is a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Established in 1988, RCI serves as the nerve center for the development of avionics and missile systems in India. The laboratory is primarily responsible for the design, development, and integration of sophisticated missile guidance and control systems, navigation systems, and onboard computers that are critical to India’s strategic missile programs, including the Agni, Prithvi, and Akash series.
As a vital component of the DRDO ecosystem, RCI operates with a mission to achieve self-reliance in critical defence technologies. The laboratory fosters a culture of innovation, bringing together top-tier scientists and engineers to work on cutting-edge research in fields such as RF and microwave engineering, power electronics, machine learning, and structural analysis. Working at RCI offers unparalleled career prospects for young researchers and engineers, providing them with the opportunity to contribute directly to national security and aerospace advancement.
Geographically, RCI is situated in the Vignyanakancha campus in Hyderabad, which acts as a hub for advanced research and development. The organization maintains strong collaborations with academic institutions and other national laboratories to push the boundaries of aerospace technology. For professionals, a career at RCI is not just a job but a commitment to excellence in engineering. The organization provides a structured environment for professional growth, offering access to state-of-the-art testing facilities, simulation labs, and mentorship from some of the country’s most distinguished scientists. By joining RCI as a Research Associate or Junior Research Fellow, candidates embark on a challenging journey that shapes the future of India’s defence capabilities while honing their technical expertise in a high-stakes, high-reward environment.
How to Apply
- Download the official application form from the DRDO website (drdo.gov.in).
- Fill in all required details accurately.
- Attach self-attested copies of your educational certificates, ID proof, and a recent photograph.
- Send the completed application via Speed Post or Registered Post to the address specified in the official notification.
- Ensure the application reaches the destination on or before 13 September 2026.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Publication Date | 14 August 2026 |
| Last Date for Receipt of Application | 13 September 2026 |
Important Links
| Link Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Download Our App | Click Here |
| Best TGPSC Books | Click Here |
| Official Notification PDF | Click here |
| Official Website | Click here |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Research Centre Imarat (DRDO RCI) JRF 2026?
Candidates holding a First Class B.E/B.Tech with a valid GATE score, or an M.E/M.Tech, or an M.Sc with NET/GATE/SLET in the relevant discipline are eligible to apply. Applicants must also be within the age limit of 35 years.
What is the salary for Research Associate and JRF at DRDO RCI?
The stipend for both Research Associate (RA) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF) positions is provided as per the standard Government of India norms. Specific monthly amounts are determined by the current fellowship guidelines issued by the government.
What is the selection process for DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026?
The selection process involves a multi-stage approach starting with the scrutiny of applications. Shortlisted candidates will then undergo a written test, followed by a personal interview and final document verification.
Is DRDO RCI a Central or State Government organisation?
Research Centre Imarat (RCI) is a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which is a Central Government organization under the Ministry of Defence. It operates at the national level to support India’s strategic defence requirements.