The DRDO IRDE Recruitment 2026 notification has been officially released by the Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE), a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). A total of 8 vacancies for the post of Junior Research Fellow (JRF) have been announced, and eligible candidates can apply offline on or before May 21, 2026.
The official advertisement number for this recruitment is Advt. No. G/101/JRF/SRF, and the notification was published on April 30, 2026, on the official DRDO website at drdo.gov.in.
Post-Wise Vacancy Details
All 8 vacancies under DRDO IRDE Recruitment 2026 are for the Junior Research Fellow position, distributed across four disciplines:
| Post Name | Discipline | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow | Electronics Engineering | 4 |
| Junior Research Fellow | Physics | 1 |
| Junior Research Fellow | Computer Science | 2 |
| Junior Research Fellow | Mechanical Engineering | 1 |
| Total | 8 |
Educational Qualification
To be eligible for these posts, candidates must meet the following academic requirements:
- B.Tech / B.E. or M.E. / M.Tech. in the relevant discipline (Electronics Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or Mechanical Engineering)
- Degree must be with First Division from a UGC-recognised university
- Must hold a valid NET or GATE qualification
Candidates who have appeared in GATE or NET but are awaiting results may also check the official notification for further instructions. Qualifications must strictly match the discipline advertised for each post.
Age Limit
The maximum age limit for applying under DRDO IRDE JRF Vacancy 2026 is 28 years. Age relaxation is applicable for SC, ST, and OBC candidates as per the Government of India’s prevailing reservation norms. The age will be calculated as on the last date of application, i.e., May 21, 2026.
Stipend / Salary
Selected Junior Research Fellows will receive a monthly stipend of ₹37,000/-, along with House Rent Allowance (HRA) as applicable under DRDO/Government of India rules. This is in line with DST-SERB JRF stipend norms and makes it a competitive research fellowship for science and engineering graduates.
Selection Process
The selection for DRDO IRDE Recruitment 2026 will be conducted through a Walk-in Interview scheduled for May 21, 2026, at IRDE, Dehradun. Candidates shortlisted based on their applications and qualifications will be called for the interview round. There is no written examination for these posts.
How to Apply
The application process for this recruitment is fully offline. Online applications will not be accepted.
Here is the step-by-step process to apply:
- Visit the official DRDO website: www.drdo.gov.in
- Go to the Vacancies / Recruitment section
- Download the official notification PDF for Advt. No. G/101/JRF/SRF
- Download the prescribed application form from the same page
- Fill in all details carefully — personal, educational, and contact information
- Attach self-attested copies of: photograph, signature, valid photo ID, educational certificates, category certificate (if applicable), and valid NET/GATE scorecard
- Send the completed application via Speed Post or Registered Post to the address given in the official notification
- Ensure the application reaches IRDE before May 21, 2026
- Keep a photocopy of the submitted application for your records
Applications that are incomplete, unsigned, or received after the deadline will be rejected without any intimation.
About IRDE, Dehradun
IRDE (Instruments Research and Development Establishment) is located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, and operates under DRDO’s umbrella within the Ministry of Defence. The laboratory is engaged in research, design, and development of advanced electro-optical and precision instruments for India’s armed forces. A JRF posting at IRDE offers hands-on research experience in a defence environment, making it a sought-after fellowship for engineering and science graduates aspiring to a career in defence R&D.
