Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) offers Scientist roles via GATE scorecard and Junior Research Fellowships (JRF). DRDO laboratories regularly announce JRFs. GATE qualified individuals can join as JRFs, gaining research experience and potentially progressing to Senior Research Fellowships (SRF) and Project Scientist roles.
Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) opportunities from two of its prominent laboratories: the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad, and DMSRDE, Kanpur. Aspiring candidates should note that walk-in interviews for these positions are scheduled to be conducted between June 1st and June 5th, 2026.
For DRDL, Hyderabad, Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) openings are available across multiple engineering disciplines:
| Discipline | Openings | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | 9 | B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering with a valid GATE scorecard |
| Aeronautical & Aerospace Engineering | 4 | B.E./B.Tech in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering with a valid GATE scorecard |
| Electronics & Communication Engineering | 3 | B.E./B.Tech in Electronics & Communication Engineering with a valid GATE scorecard |
Candidates applying for JRF positions at DRDL Hyderabad should note the following crucial details:
Stipend: Selected candidates will receive a stipend of ₹37,000 per month plus HRA.
Tenure: The fellowship is initially for two years, with a possibility of extension for another two years. Progression to a Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) is also possible based on performance.
Application Process: Candidates must fill out the provided application format, attach all necessary documents, and bring them to the walk-in interview. Applications are also submitted on the official website: drdo.gov.in.
Age Limit: The upper age limit for applicants is 28 years. Age relaxation applies: 5 years for SC/ST candidates and 3 years for OBC candidates.
Selection Process: Shortlisting of candidates will be primarily based on their GATE score and the marks obtained in their minimum qualifying degree.
Walk-in Interview Dates (for DRDL, Hyderabad - Year 2026):
June 1st to 3rd: JRF-01 posts
June 4th: JRF-02 posts
June 5th: JRF-03 posts
Candidates are required to reach the specified address for their interviews on the respective dates.
DMSRDE, Kanpur, also presents a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) opportunity:
Discipline: Material Science and Chemical Engineering
Openings: 1
Walk-in Interview Date: June 3rd, 2026
All other essential details, including the stipend, tenure, application process, age limit, and selection criteria for DMSRDE Kanpur JRF, are similar to those outlined for DRDL, Hyderabad.
These Junior Research Fellowship opportunities at DRDO are particularly advantageous for several groups of students:
Financial Support: They offer crucial financial assistance for students facing economic challenges.
GATE Qualified Aspirants: Ideal for individuals who have recently qualified the GATE examination and seek immediate career prospects.
Competitive Exam Preparation: Provides an excellent platform for candidates intending to prepare for other competitive examinations, such as UPSC ESE (Engineering Services Examination), by offering an earning source while they study.
Research Exposure: Allows individuals to gain valuable research experience, which is beneficial for future academic pursuits, including Ph.D. studies.

