The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), one of India’s most prestigious research agencies, is inviting applications for the Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position in 2025. These fellowships are available under the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS), Bengaluru, and provide an excellent opportunity for young, motivated, and skilled individuals to contribute to the nation’s defense sector through research and development in cutting-edge airborne systems.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to the DRDO JRF Recruitment 2025, including application procedures, eligibility criteria, interview schedules, and key details about the posts, ensuring prospective candidates can navigate the process effectively.
Overview of DRDO Recruitment 2025 for JRF
Key Details:
- Total Posts: 25 (with subject-specific distribution)
- Post Name: Junior Research Fellow (JRF)
- Location: Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS), Bengaluru
- Application Mode: Walk-in Interview
- Application Deadline for Email Submission: 24th January 2025
- Interview Dates:
- 28th January 2025 for Electronics and Electrical
- 29th January 2025 for Aeronautical and Mechanical
- 30th January 2025 for Computer Science
- Tenure: Initially 2 years, extendable for 1 year (subject to performance)
- Stipend: ₹37,000 per month + House Rent Allowance (HRA)
This recruitment drive provides a unique opportunity for engineering graduates and postgraduates to apply their skills to critical defense projects.
Vacancies and Disciplines in DRDO JRF Recruitment 2025
DRDO offers 25 vacancies for the Junior Research Fellow role, divided across several engineering disciplines. Below are the key positions available:
1. Aeronautical Engineering (2 Posts)
- Required Qualifications: BE/B.Tech in Aeronautical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering or Avionics Engineering
- GATE Score: Valid GATE score from 2023 or 2024.
2. Computer Science & Engineering (9 Posts)
- Required Qualifications: BE/B.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering, Computer Science & Technology, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or similar fields.
- GATE Score: Valid GATE score from 2023 or 2024.
3. Electronics & Communication Engineering (9 Posts)
- Required Qualifications: BE/B.Tech in Electronics & Communication Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Telecommunication Engineering, Electrical Communication Engineering, etc.
- GATE Score: Valid GATE score from 2023 or 2024.
4. Electrical Engineering (1 Post)
- Required Qualifications: BE/B.Tech in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Power Systems Engineering, Electronics & Electrical Engineering.
- GATE Score: Valid GATE score from 2023 or 2024.
5. Mechanical Engineering (4 Posts)
- Required Qualifications: BE/B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical & Automation Engineering, Mechanical & Production Engineering.
- GATE Score: Valid GATE score from 2023 or 2024.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) at DRDO, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
Age Limit
- Upper Age Limit: 28 years as on 31st December 2024.
- Relaxations:
- 5 years for SC/ST candidates
- 3 years for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates.
Educational Qualifications
- BE/B.Tech in the relevant discipline with a first division (minimum 60% marks) and a valid GATE score.
- OR ME/M.Tech in the relevant discipline with first division marks both at the graduate and postgraduate levels.
- Only GATE scores of 2023 and 2024 are accepted for consideration.
Nationality
- Only Indian nationals are eligible to apply.
Stipend and Benefits
Selected candidates will receive the following financial benefits:
- Monthly Stipend: ₹37,000 per month
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): As per DRDO’s norms.
- Other Benefits: The fellowship may be extended for a further period of up to two years, depending on the candidate’s performance.
Walk-In Interview Details
The walk-in interview process is the core of DRDO’s recruitment for the JRF positions. Candidates are advised to attend the interview as per the schedule outlined below:
Interview Schedule
- 28th January 2025: Opportunities for Electronics and Electrical Engineering Candidates
- 29th January 2025: For Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering candidates
- 30th January 2025: For Computer Science candidates
Candidates must report by 08:45 AM on the respective interview date. The interview will begin at 11:00 AM after an initial screening of candidates.
Documents to Carry for the Interview
Candidates must bring the following documents for verification:
- Duly filled application form (Downloadable from the official DRDO website).
- Attested copies of:
- Educational certificates (BE/B.Tech and ME/M.Tech)
- GATE scorecard (2023 or 2024)
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-sized photograph affixed on the top right corner of the application form.
- Valid Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar card, Passport, etc.)
Important Points
- Candidates currently employed in government organizations need to bring a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer.
General Guidelines and Conditions
- No TA/DA: Candidates will not be provided any travel or dearness allowance for attending the interview.
- Validity of Panel: A panel of selected candidates will be prepared based on merit, and it will be valid for one year. However, being on the panel does not guarantee an offer of fellowship.
- Misconduct: Any misconduct or falsification of documents during the recruitment process will result in immediate disqualification.
Why Apply for DRDO JRF 2025?
1. Work on Cutting-Edge Research
DRDO is involved in high-level defense research, and as a Junior Research Fellow, you will be at the forefront of technological innovations in airborne systems and related fields.
2. Government Job with Stability
Being a JRF at DRDO comes with the security and prestige of working in one of the most reputed government organizations in India, offering long-term career growth opportunities.
3. Competitive Stipend
The fellowship offers a monthly stipend of ₹37,000, making it a financially rewarding opportunity, with additional benefits like HRA.
4. Opportunity for Extended Fellowship
The fellowship can be extended based on performance, providing further career development in the defense research sector.