DRDO DIHAR Junior Research Fellow and Research Associate Walk-in Interview 2026

DRDO DIHAR Recruitment 2026: Junior Research Fellow & Research Associate Walk-in Interview

The Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR), a premier laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has issued a notification for the recruitment of Junior Research Fellow (JRF) and Research Associate (RA) positions. This recruitment drive presents a significant opportunity for enthusiastic and qualified research professionals to contribute to cutting-edge defence research within a prestigious government setup. A total of 17 vacancies have been announced through Notification dated 26 September 2026.

Candidates eager to build a career in scientific research and development, particularly in areas critical to national defence, should consider this walk-in interview. These contractual positions offer valuable experience and attractive remuneration. For those exploring similar scientific roles, details on the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology Recruitment 2026 for Senior Research Fellow, Junior Research Fellow and Project Assistant recruitment can also provide a broader perspective on opportunities within the defence research sector.

Eligibility Criteria & Age Limits

Prospective candidates must carefully review the specific educational qualifications and age limits for each post before attending the walk-in interview. Meeting these criteria is mandatory for consideration.

Educational Qualification:

• Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Applicants must hold a B.E./B.Tech degree in the first division with a valid GATE score. Alternatively, an M.Tech degree in the first division at both graduate and postgraduate levels in relevant engineering disciplines is also acceptable.
• Research Associate (RA): Candidates for Research Associate positions require a Ph.D. degree. Those with an M.Tech degree may also apply, provided they have 3 years of demonstrable research, teaching, design, or development experience after completing their M.Tech, along with at least one research paper published in an SCI journal.

Age Limit (as on 14 October 2026):

• Junior Research Fellow (JRF): The maximum age limit is 28 years.
• Research Associate (RA): The maximum age limit is 35 years.

Age Relaxation:

Age relaxation benefits for candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC categories will be provided strictly as per the extant rules and regulations of the Government of India.

Remuneration & Monthly Salary

The Defence Institute of High Altitude Research offers attractive monthly stipends for both Junior Research Fellow and Research Associate positions, along with House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per rules.

• Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 37,000 + HRA.
• Research Associate (RA): Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 67,000 + HRA.

Selection Process

The selection for these JRF and RA positions at DRDO DIHAR will be based on a walk-in interview methodology. Candidates do not need to appear for a written examination.

The selection stages are designed to assess the academic background, research aptitude, and relevant experience of the candidates.

• Stage 1: Screening of Applications and Testimonials: An initial screening of documents will be conducted to verify eligibility criteria.
• Stage 2: Face-to-Face Interview: Eligible candidates will undergo a direct interview with the selection committee. This stage is crucial for evaluating technical knowledge and suitability for the research roles.
• Stage 3: Document Verification: Final verification of all original documents will be performed for shortlisted candidates.

Important Walk-in Interview Date

Candidates must make a note of the critical date for the walk-in interview. Punctual arrival at the venue is essential.

• Walk-in Interview Date: 14 October 2026

Application Fee Details

DRDO DIHAR has announced that there is no application fee required for any category of candidates applying for these Junior Research Fellow and Research Associate posts. This is a significant relief for all aspirants.

How to Attend the Walk-in Interview

This recruitment process is exclusively through a walk-in interview, meaning no online application form submission is required. Candidates must physically appear at the designated venue on the specified date with all necessary documents.

1. Read the Official Notification: Thoroughly review the official DRDO DIHAR notification (Notification dated 26 September 2026) for complete details.
2. Check Eligibility: Verify your post-wise eligibility, including educational qualifications and age limits, against the criteria mentioned.
3. Prepare Application Form: If the official notification mandates a specific application form, download and fill it accurately. Otherwise, be prepared to complete one at the interview venue.
4. Gather Documents: Collect all original certificates, mark sheets, experience certificates (if applicable), caste/category certificates (if applicable), valid photo identity proof, and recent passport-size photographs.
5. Self-Attested Copies: Ensure you have one complete set of self-attested photocopies of all your original documents.
6. Report to Venue: On 14 October 2026, report to the walk-in interview venue well before the reporting time mentioned in the official notice.

Essential Documents for Walk-in Interview

Candidates attending the walk-in interview must carry the following documents for verification. Failure to present any required document may lead to disqualification.

• Valid Photo Identity Proof: Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Driving License, etc.
• Educational Certificates and Mark Sheets: From Class 10th onwards, including B.E./B.Tech/M.Tech/Ph.D. certificates and all semester/year mark sheets.
• Experience Certificates: If applying for RA and claiming experience.
• Category Certificate: Valid SC/ST/OBC certificate, if applicable, issued by a competent authority.
• Recent Passport-size Photographs: Multiple copies for application forms and records.
• Duly Filled Application Form: If specified in the notification for prior preparation.

Candidate Advisory & Crucial Precautions

Candidates are advised to adhere to the following guidelines to ensure a smooth application and interview process:

For more details, candidates should regularly visit the official DRDO website.

Official Website: drdo.gov.in