DRDO DRDL JRF Recruitment 2026 | Walk-in Interview for 16 Junior Research Fellow Vacancies in Hyderabad
DRDO DRDL JRF Recruitment 2026 | Walk-in Interview for 16 Junior Research Fellow Vacancies
The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad, a premier missile systems laboratory under DRDO, has officially released the DRDO DRDL JRF Recruitment 2026 notification for 16 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) vacancies. This is an excellent opportunity for engineering graduates looking for government jobs, defence jobs, research jobs, and prestigious GATE-based recruitment opportunities in India’s strategic missile research ecosystem.
Candidates from Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering, and Electronics & Communication Engineering can attend the walk-in interviews scheduled from 01 June to 05 June 2026 in Hyderabad. Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend of ₹37,000 plus HRA and get hands-on exposure to advanced defence research, missile systems, aerospace technologies, and DRDO research projects.
Key Highlights — DRDO DRDL JRF Recruitment 2026
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), DRDO |
| Post Name | Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
| Total Vacancies | 16 Posts |
| Monthly Stipend | ₹37,000 + HRA |
| Job Type | Government Research Fellowship |
| Selection Mode | Walk-in Interview |
| Walk-in Dates | 01 June to 05 June 2026 |
| Reporting Time | 09:00 AM to 09:30 AM |
| Job Location | Hyderabad, Telangana |
| Fellowship Duration | 2 Years (Extendable up to 4 Years) |
| Official Organization | DRDO DRDL |
About DRDO DRDL Hyderabad
The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) is one of DRDO’s most prestigious research laboratories, specializing in missile systems, aerospace engineering, propulsion technologies, aerodynamics, structural systems, and strategic defence research. Located in Hyderabad, DRDL has played a critical role in India’s missile development programmes. Working as a Junior Research Fellow here provides exceptional research exposure and can significantly strengthen future opportunities in DRDO, ISRO, PSUs, academia, and advanced R&D careers.
Vacancy Details — DRDO DRDL JRF Recruitment 2026
| Fellowship | Discipline | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| JRF-01 | Mechanical Engineering | 9 |
| JRF-02 | Aeronautical / Aerospace Engineering | 4 |
| JRF-03 | Electronics & Communication Engineering | 3 |
| Total | — | 16 |
Candidates must ensure their discipline and GATE paper code match the fellowship they are applying for.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Candidates must satisfy one of the following eligibility routes:
Route 1
- B.E./B.Tech with First Class in relevant discipline.
- Valid GATE score in matching paper code (ME / AE / ECE).
- Relevant disciplines:
Mechanical, Aeronautical, Aerospace, Electronics & Communication Engineering.
Route 2
- M.E./M.Tech with First Class in relevant discipline.
- B.E./B.Tech with First Class in matching engineering discipline.
- GATE applicability should be verified from official notification.
Experience
Freshers are eligible. Prior work experience is not mandatory.
Experience in missile systems, embedded systems, propulsion, structural design, aerodynamics, control systems, or related technical areas may be advantageous.
Age Limit
- Maximum Age: 28 Years
- SC/ST: 5 Years Relaxation
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 Years Relaxation
- PwBD / Ex-Servicemen: As per Government Rules
Stipend & Benefits
Selected Junior Research Fellows will receive DRDO fellowship benefits with attractive monthly stipend support.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend | ₹37,000 |
| HRA | As per DRDO Rules |
| Approx In-Hand Value | ₹43,000 – ₹47,000 |
| Medical | As per Fellowship Rules |
| Leave Benefits | As Applicable |
| Fellowship Duration | 2 Years Extendable up to 4 Years |
This fellowship offers significant career value for candidates targeting DRDO scientist roles, aerospace research careers, defence engineering opportunities, and higher studies.
Selection Process
- Document Verification: Certificates, marksheets, GATE scorecard, ID proof, and supporting documents will be verified.
- Shortlisting: Candidates may be shortlisted based on academic merit and GATE performance.
- Personal Interview: Technical interview focused on subject knowledge and research aptitude.
- Final Selection: Merit list based on academic record and interview performance.
Candidates arriving after 09:30 AM will not be allowed.
How to Apply for DRDO DRDL JRF Recruitment 2026
- Download the official application form from DRDO official website.
- Fill the application form carefully in your own handwriting.
- Attach self-attested photocopies of educational certificates.
- Attach GATE scorecard and category certificates if applicable.
- Paste recent passport-size photograph and carry extra copies.
- Carry original certificates for verification.
- Visit the walk-in venue on the relevant discipline date.
- Report between 09:00 AM and 09:30 AM only.
Walk-in Schedule / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| JRF-01 Mechanical Engineering | 01–03 June 2026 |
| JRF-02 Aeronautical / Aerospace | 04 June 2026 |
| JRF-03 Electronics & Communication | 05 June 2026 |
| Reporting Time | 09:00 AM – 09:30 AM |
| Venue | DLOMI, DRDO Township, Kanchanbagh, Hyderabad |
Application Fees
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| All Categories | NIL |
No application fee is required for this recruitment.
Documents Required
- Filled Application Form
- 10th Certificate
- 12th Certificate
- B.E./B.Tech Certificates & Mark Sheets
- M.E./M.Tech Certificates (if applicable)
- GATE Scorecard
- Category Certificate
- Aadhaar Card / Valid ID Proof
- Passport Size Photographs
- No Objection Certificate (if employed)
Important Links
Download Official Notification
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for Mechanical, Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Electronics engineering graduates who want careers in defence research, missile technology, aerospace systems, strategic engineering, or DRDO scientist pathways. Freshers with valid GATE scores should strongly consider this prestigious research opportunity.
Preparation Tips & Career Benefits
Candidates should revise core engineering subjects, GATE concepts, project knowledge, and domain-specific fundamentals before attending the interview. Strong technical clarity, research aptitude, and communication skills can significantly improve selection chances. DRDO research fellowship experience is highly valuable for future scientist recruitment, PSUs, aerospace roles, and higher studies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many vacancies are available in DRDO DRDL JRF Recruitment 2026?
There are 16 Junior Research Fellow vacancies.
2. Is GATE mandatory for DRDO DRDL JRF Recruitment?
GATE is required for B.E./B.Tech route candidates. M.Tech route candidates should verify official notification requirements.
3. What is the monthly stipend for DRDO DRDL JRF?
Selected candidates will receive ₹37,000 per month plus HRA.
4. Is there any application fee?
No, there is no application fee for any category.
Final Words
The DRDO DRDL JRF Recruitment 2026 is a premium opportunity for engineering graduates seeking defence research careers. Prepare your documents early, reach the venue on time, and make the most of this chance to work on India’s advanced missile programmes.
