The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) has officially released the DRDO DRDL Recruitment 2026 notification for 16 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) positions. This is a premium government job opportunity for engineering graduates who have a valid GATE score. Unlike online applications, this recruitment is conducted through a walk-in interview scheduled from 1st June 2026 to 5th June 2026. Selected candidates will receive a monthly salary of ₹37,000 plus HRA. If you are looking for the latest government recruitment in the defense sector, this is a high-value opportunity. Make sure to check the complete eligibility criteria, age limit, and subject-wise walk-in dates before you plan your visit.
DRDO DRDL Recruitment 2026 – Complete Overview
DRDO DRDL is a premier research laboratory under India’s Defence Research and Development Organization. The 2026 recruitment drive aims to hire Junior Research Fellows on a contractual basis. Below are the key highlights you need to know before applying.
- Recruitment Board: Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), DRDO
- Post Name: Junior Research Fellow (JRF)
- Total Vacancies: 16
- Job Type: Contractual
- Apply Mode: Walk-in Interview (No online form)
- Walk-in Dates: 1 June 2026 to 5 June 2026
Vacancy Details for DRDO DRDL JRF 2026
The 16 vacancies are divided across three engineering disciplines. Candidates must carefully check their specialization before attending the walk-in interview.
| Post Name (Discipline) | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (Mechanical Engineering) | 9 |
| Junior Research Fellow (Aeronautical / Aerospace Engineering) | 4 |
| Junior Research Fellow (Electronics & Communication Engineering) | 3 |
Educational Qualification Required
To apply for DRDO DRDL Recruitment 2026, you must meet one of the following qualification paths. A valid GATE score is mandatory for all candidates.
- For Mechanical Engineering (9 posts): B.Tech/B.E in Mechanical Engineering with First Class + valid GATE score (Paper code: ME) OR M.E/M.Tech in Mechanical Engineering with First Class and B.Tech/B.E First Class.
- For Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering (4 posts): B.Tech/B.E in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering with First Class + valid GATE score (Paper code: AE) OR M.E/M.Tech in same discipline with First Class and B.Tech/B.E First Class.
- For Electronics & Communication Engineering (3 posts): B.Tech/B.E in ECE with First Class + valid GATE score (Paper code: EC) OR M.E/M.Tech in ECE with First Class and B.Tech/B.E First Class.
Salary, Age Limit & Application Fee
Understanding the salary structure, age criteria, and fee exemption is important before attending any government job interview. Here are the details for DRDO DRDL JRF 2026.
Salary (Stipend)
Selected Junior Research Fellows will receive ₹37,000 per month plus HRA as per DRDO rules.
Age Limit (as on interview date)
- Maximum Age: 28 years
- SC/ST Relaxation: 5 years
- OBC Relaxation: 3 years
Application Fee
No application fee for any category (General, OBC, SC, ST). All candidates can attend the walk-in interview free of cost.
Selection Process & Important Dates
The selection process for DRDO DRDL Recruitment 2026 is straightforward and transparent. It does not include any written exam.
Selection Process
- Shortlisting based on valid GATE score and percentage in the qualifying degree.
- Personal Interview (walk-in mode).
Important Dates (Discipline-wise Walk-in Schedule)
| Event / Discipline | Walk-in Date |
|---|---|
| JRF-01 (Mechanical Engineering) – Day 1 | 1 June 2026 |
| JRF-01 (Mechanical Engineering) – Day 2 | 2 June 2026 |
| JRF-01 (Mechanical Engineering) – Day 3 | 3 June 2026 |
| JRF-02 (Aeronautical / Aerospace Engineering) | 4 June 2026 |
| JRF-03 (Electronics & Communication Engineering) | 5 June 2026 |
How to Apply for DRDO DRDL Recruitment 2026
Since this is a walk-in recruitment, there is no online application form. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your candidature is accepted.
- Step 1: Download the official DRDO DRDL Recruitment 2026 Notification PDF from the DRDO website (drdo.gov.in).
- Step 2: Read all eligibility criteria carefully, especially the GATE score validity and first-class requirements.
- Step 3: Prepare a duly filled application form as per the format given in the notification (if specified).
- Step 4: Carry all original documents + one set of self-attested photocopies:
- Educational certificates (B.Tech/B.E & M.E/M.Tech)
- Valid GATE scorecard
- ID proof (Aadhar, PAN, Voter ID, Passport)
- Category certificate (if applicable for age relaxation)
- Passport-size photographs (4-6 copies)
- Step 5: Report to the walk-in venue on your scheduled date before the reporting time mentioned in the official PDF.
- Step 6: Complete the registration formalities at the venue and wait for your interview slot.
Note: The exact venue address and reporting time are mentioned in the official DRDO DRDL notification PDF. Always refer to the official document before leaving for the interview.
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