DRDO ADE Recruitment 2026 - Research Associate & JRF Notification, Eligibility, Salary

DRDO ADE Recruitment 2026 - Research Associate & JRF Notification, Eligibility, Salary

DRDO ADE Recruitment 2026: Overview

The DRDO Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), a premier Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) lab based in Bengaluru, has released the official notification for recruitment to 8 posts of Research Associate (RA) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF). This is an excellent opportunity for engineering and science postgraduates to contribute to India's defence aerospace projects.

This recruitment is a Direct Recruitment process based on Screening and Personal Interviews. There is no written competitive examination. Eligible candidates are required to apply via email.

Key Highlights

Vacancy Details

Out of the total 8 vacancies, the posts are distributed across various engineering disciplines.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Educational Qualification

Candidates must possess the following qualifications from recognized Universities/Institutions:

• Research Associate (Aero/Mech): Ph.D. in Aeronautical/Mechanical Engineering OR ME/M.Tech in first division with 3+ years of experience.
• Research Associate (Aero/Elec/Mat): Ph.D. in Aeronautical/Electronics/Material Engineering OR ME/M.Tech in first division with 2+ years of experience.
• JRF (Aeronautical/Mech/CS): BE/B.Tech in First Division (60% or equivalent CGPA) with a valid GATE score.
• JRF (Electronics & Comm): ME/M.Tech in First Division at both graduate and post-graduate levels.

2. Age Limit

• Research Associate: Maximum 35 years.
• Junior Research Fellow: Maximum 28 years.

*Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST/OBC candidates as per Government of India rules.

Selection Process

The selection for DRDO ADE RA and JRF recruitment is based on the following stages:

1. Screening: Applications will be screened based on qualifications and experience.
2. Screening Test (JRF only): A test may be conducted for JRF posts if the number of applicants is high (scheduled for 07 April 2026).
3. Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview.

How to Apply (Email Mode)

Unlike typical online forms, this recruitment requires candidates to send applications via email. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Prepare Application: Create a detailed Bio-data containing personal details, educational qualifications, and relevant experience.
2. Scan Documents: Attach self-attested copies of educational certificates, experience letters, ID proof, GATE scorecard (for JRF), and passport-size photographs.
3. Subject Line: In the email subject line, clearly mention the post applied for (e.g., "Application for JRF - Aeronautical").
4. Send Email: Send the application to the official email address provided in the notification PDF.
5. Deadline: Ensure the email is sent on or before 24 March 2026.

Application Fee

As per the notification details provided, there is no application fee mentioned for this recruitment. Candidates should verify this in the official PDF.

Important Dates

Important Links

• Download Official Notification PDF
• DRDO Official Website

FAQs

Q1. Is there any written exam for DRDO ADE Recruitment 2026?

A: No, this is a direct recruitment process based on screening and interview. However, a screening test may be conducted for JRF posts if required.

Q2. What is the last date to apply?

A: The last date to submit applications via email is 24th March 2026.

Q3. What is the salary for JRF and RA?

A: JRFs will receive Rs. 37,000/- per month, while Research Associates will receive Rs. 67,000/- per month plus applicable HRA.