DRDO DMRL Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026

DRDO DMRL Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026: A Premier Opportunity in Defence Research

The Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL), a distinguished constituent of the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), has released an official notification (Advt. No. DMRL/HRD/JRF/2026/01) for the recruitment of 18 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) positions. This recruitment drive offers an exceptional opportunity for bright and dynamic young scientists and engineers to contribute to cutting-edge defence research in Hyderabad, Telangana.

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

DMRL is at the forefront of developing advanced metallurgical and material technologies for India's defence needs. Joining as a Junior Research Fellow provides an immersive experience in a high-tech research environment, focusing on critical projects that directly impact national security. Candidates passionate about research in Metallurgical, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering, or Physics, and holding a valid GATE or NET qualification, are strongly encouraged to apply for these prestigious roles. Interested individuals may also want to explore other research opportunities such as the Central University of Rajasthan Research Scientist-II Recruitment 2026 recruitment details to broaden their career prospects.

Vacancy Details for Junior Research Fellow Posts

A total of 18 Junior Research Fellow positions are available across various disciplines. Aspiring candidates can find the detailed breakdown of vacancies below:

Eligibility Criteria: Educational Qualification and Age Limit

To be considered for the DRDO DMRL Junior Research Fellow positions, candidates must meet specific educational and age requirements as detailed below:

Educational Qualifications:

• For JRF-01 (Metallurgical/Materials Engineering): A first-class B.E./B.Tech. in Metallurgical Engineering / Materials Science / Materials Engineering / Materials Technology from a UGC-recognised university with a valid GATE score is essential. Alternatively, candidates with a first-class M.E./M.Tech. in the same discipline, having also secured first class in B.E./B.Tech. in the same discipline, are eligible.
• For JRF-02 (Mechanical Engineering): Applicants must hold a first-class B.E./B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering from a UGC-recognised university with a valid GATE score. Candidates with a first-class M.E./M.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering, along with a first-class B.E./B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering, are also eligible.
• For JRF-03 (Chemical Engineering): A first-class B.E./B.Tech. in Chemical Engineering from a UGC-recognised university with a valid GATE score is required. Similarly, those with a first-class M.E./M.Tech. in Chemical Engineering and a first-class B.E./B.Tech. in Chemical Engineering are eligible.
• For JRF-04 (Physics): Candidates should possess an M.Sc. in Physics with First Division from a UGC-recognised university and a valid NET qualification.

Age Limit:

• The maximum age limit for all Junior Research Fellow positions is 28 years as on the closing date of the interview.

Age Relaxation:

• SC/ST candidates are eligible for an age relaxation of 5 years.
• OBC candidates will receive an age relaxation of 3 years.
• Age relaxation will be provided as per Government of India rules.

Remuneration and Contractual Terms

Selected Junior Research Fellows will receive an attractive monthly stipend and other benefits:

• Salary: A fixed stipend of Rs. 37,000 per month will be provided.
• Allowances: In addition to the stipend, House Rent Allowance (HRA) will be granted as per DRDO rules.

These positions are purely temporary and contractual in nature. The initial engagement will be for 2 years, which is extendable for up to a total of 4 years, subject to satisfactory performance and project requirements. It is important to note that these positions do not confer any right for absorption into DRDO service.

Application Fee Details

DRDO DMRL has announced that there is no application fee for any category of candidates applying for the Junior Research Fellow posts. This applies to General, OBC, EWS, SC, and ST applicants alike, making it an accessible opportunity for all eligible candidates.

Selection Methodology for Junior Research Fellow

The selection process for the Junior Research Fellow positions at DRDO DMRL is designed to identify highly skilled and motivated candidates:

• Stage 1: Shortlisting: Candidates will be shortlisted based on their eligibility criteria, including academic qualifications and valid GATE/NET scores or qualifying marks.
• Stage 2: Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview, which will assess their technical knowledge, research aptitude, and communication skills.
• Stage 3: Document Verification & Medical Examination: Final selection will be contingent upon successful document verification and a satisfactory medical examination.

There will be no written examination for these positions; selection will be entirely through the shortlisting and interview process.

Important Dates to Remember

Prospective applicants should note the following key dates for the DRDO DMRL JRF Recruitment 2026:

• Application Start Date: 06 October 2026
• Application Last Date: The last date to apply is 21 days after the publication of the advertisement on the official DRDO website. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification PDF for the precise closing date.

How to Apply for DRDO DMRL JRF Recruitment 2026

The application process for the Junior Research Fellow positions is online via email. Candidates must follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful submission:

1. Download Application Form: Visit the official DRDO website (www.drdo.gov.in) and download the prescribed Excel application form.
2. Fill Application Form: Complete every entry in the Excel form accurately. Ensure all qualifying marks are mentioned as percentages.
3. Scan Documents to PDF: Scan all necessary supporting certificates and documents into a single PDF file. The documents must be arranged in the exact order specified in the official notification.
4. Name Files Correctly: Name the filled Excel file and the scanned PDF file using the format: Post Serial Number_Candidate Name (e.g., JRF-01_PriyaSharma.xls and JRF-01_PriyaSharma.pdf).
5. Email Submission: Send both the Excel application form and the scanned PDF of documents to the official application email ID before the deadline. The email ID will be provided in the detailed official notification.
6. Keep Originals Ready: Candidates are required to keep all original documents ready for verification at the time of the interview in Hyderabad.

Essential Documents for Application and Interview

Candidates must prepare and submit the following documents as part of their application. Ensure all documents are clear and legible.

• Filled Excel Application Form: The duly completed application form downloaded from the DRDO website.
• Scanned PDF of Certificates: A single PDF containing all supporting certificates in the prescribed order.
• Educational Certificates: B.E./B.Tech. final certificate and consolidated marksheet. M.E./M.Tech. certificate and marksheet, if applicable.
• GATE/NET Proof: Valid GATE score card for Engineering disciplines (JRF-01, JRF-02, JRF-03). Valid NET qualification proof for JRF-04 (Physics).
• Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card or any other valid government photo ID card.
• Photograph: A recent passport-size photograph.
• Experience Certificate: If applicable, relevant experience certificates.
• Caste Certificate: If applicable (SC/ST/OBC), a valid caste certificate issued by the competent authority.
• NOC: No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the present employer, if already employed in government/PSU.
• Publications: Copies of published papers in journals or conferences, if any.
• Other Relevant Documents: Any other documents as mentioned in the official notification.

Candidate Advisory and Crucial Precautions

• Name and DOB Match: Ensure that the name, father's name, and date of birth in your application match exactly with your matriculation (10th standard) certificate.
• Complete Application: Do not submit incomplete or partially filled Excel sheets; such applications will be rejected.
• Document Order: Attach all supporting documents in the precise order specified in the official notification within the single PDF file.
• Previous JRF Employment: Candidates who have previously worked as a Junior Research Fellow in any DRDO laboratory or centre are not eligible to apply.
• Government Employees: Employees in government service must produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) at the time of the interview, or apply through the proper channel.
• Rejection Grounds: Canvassing, providing false information, or any mismatch in age, qualification, discipline, or marks as per the rules may lead to the rejection of the application.
• No TA/DA: No Travel Allowance (TA) or Dearness Allowance (DA) will be paid for attending the interview or for joining the post, if selected.

Important Links

Candidates are encouraged to download and review the official notification for complete details and to visit the official website for further updates.

• Official Notification PDF: Download Here
• Official DRDO Website: Visit Website