DRDO DRL JRF Recruitment 2026 , Eligibility, Salary & Walk-in Interview
The Defence Research Laboratory (DRL), functioning under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has released an official notification inviting applications for the position of Junior Research Fellow (JRF). This recruitment drive is aimed at engaging young, talented, and motivated candidates in cutting-edge research projects at DRL, Tezpur (Assam).
This opportunity is particularly valuable for candidates from pharmaceutical and allied science backgrounds who wish to build a career in research within a prestigious government organization. The selection process will be conducted through a Walk-in Interview scheduled in May 2026.
Recruitment Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Defence Research Laboratory (DRL), DRDO |
| Advertisement No. | DRL/JRF/Interview/02/2026 |
| Post Name | Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
| Total Vacancies | 05 |
| Job Location | Tezpur, Assam |
| Mode of Selection | Walk-in Interview |
| Application Mode | Email Submission |
| Official Email | hrd.drl@gov.in |
About DRDO & DRL
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is India’s premier agency responsible for developing advanced defense technologies. The Defence Research Laboratory (DRL) in Tezpur focuses on life sciences research, especially in areas such as pharmaceuticals, toxicology, and biological sciences that support defense personnel.
Working as a JRF at DRL offers exposure to real-time scientific projects, collaboration with experienced researchers, and access to advanced laboratory infrastructure.
Educational Qualifications
Candidates must possess a postgraduate degree in relevant disciplines. The accepted qualifications include:
| Qualification | Specialization |
|---|---|
| M.Pharm | Any relevant discipline |
| M.S (Pharm) | Relevant field |
| M.Tech (Pharm) | Pharmaceutics / Pharmacology |
| M.Tech | Pharmacology & Toxicology |
| M.Tech | Pharmaceutical Chemistry |
Applicants must have completed their degree or hold a provisional certificate at the time of application. Only those with valid academic credentials are eligible to apply.
Age Limit Criteria
| Category | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| General | 28 Years |
| SC/ST | 33 Years (5-year relaxation) |
| OBC | 31 Years (3-year relaxation) |
The age limit is calculated as of the date of the interview. Relaxation is provided as per government norms.
Salary Structure & Benefits
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend | ₹37,000/- |
| Additional Benefits | House Rent Allowance (HRA) |
The fellowship provides a competitive stipend along with HRA, making it financially supportive for early-career researchers.
Fellowship Duration
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Initial Period | 2 Years |
| Extension | Up to 4 Years (based on performance) |
| Upgrade | JRF may be upgraded to SRF |
Candidates who perform well during the initial tenure may be promoted to Senior Research Fellow (SRF), which often comes with enhanced responsibilities and possibly higher benefits.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Date | 21 April 2026 |
| Last Date to Send CV | 12 May 2026 |
| Walk-in Interview Date | 19 May 2026 |
| Reporting Time | 09:30 AM – 10:00 AM |
⚠️ Candidates arriving after 10:00 AM will not be allowed to attend the interview.
Interview Venue Details
| Venue | Address |
|---|---|
| DRL, DRDO | Solmara Military Station |
| Location | Dekargaon, Tezpur |
| State | Assam |
| PIN Code | 784001 |
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Candidates must follow the proper procedure to apply:
- Prepare your CV as per the prescribed format (Appendix ‘A’).
- Email the CV to hrd.drl@gov.in.
- Ensure submission before the deadline (12 May 2026).
- Attend the Walk-in Interview on 19 May 2026.
Documents Required for Interview
Candidates must carry both original and photocopies of the following:
| Document Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Educational Certificates | Mandatory |
| Identity Proof | Aadhaar Card |
| Research Papers | If available |
| Thesis Copy | Required |
| Experience Certificates | If applicable |
| NOC | For employed candidates |
Failure to present required documents may result in disqualification.
Important Instructions
- Candidates must report within the specified time window.
- No TA/DA will be provided for attending the interview.
- Candidates working in government organizations must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
- The number of vacancies may change based on organizational requirements.
- Selection committee decisions will be final and binding.
- Fellowship does not guarantee permanent employment in DRDO.
Selection Process
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Application Screening | Based on CV |
| Walk-in Interview | Final Selection |
There is no written test involved. Selection is purely based on performance in the interview and academic background.
Why You Should Apply
- Opportunity to work with DRDO scientists
- Exposure to advanced research projects
- Strong career foundation in R&D
- Competitive stipend and structured growth
- Chance to upgrade to SRF
This is an excellent stepping stone for candidates aiming for research careers in government laboratories or higher academic pursuits like Ph.D.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there any application fee?
No, there is no application fee mentioned in the notification.
2. Can final-year students apply?
Only candidates with completed or provisional degrees are eligible.
3. Is prior experience required?
No, fresh postgraduates can apply.
4. Will accommodation be provided?
The notification does not mention accommodation; however, HRA is included.
5. Can candidates from other states apply?
Yes, candidates from all over India can attend the interview.
6. Is NET/GATE/GPAT mandatory?
It is not explicitly mandatory but may be advantageous.
The DRDO DRL JRF Recruitment 2026 is a valuable opportunity for postgraduate candidates in pharmaceutical sciences and related disciplines. With direct entry through a walk-in interview and a strong research environment, this role provides both professional growth and national-level exposure.
Interested candidates should ensure timely submission of their CV and prepare thoroughly for the interview. Since the competition is expected to be high, having a strong academic background and clarity in research concepts will significantly improve your chances of selection.
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