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DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026 – 21 Research Associate & Junior Research Fellow Vacancies – Apply Offline
Golden Opportunity for Engineering & Science Graduates! The Research Centre Imarat (DRDO RCI) has released the official notification for DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026 – a coveted Sarkari Naukri 2026 for Research Associate (RA) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF) posts. This is a Central Government Job under the Ministry of Defence. A total of 21 vacancies are available in various disciplines including Electronics, Computer Science, Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemistry, and Metallurgy. Eligible candidates can apply offline from 14 August 2026 to 13 September 2026. Read the full article for eligibility, salary, selection process, and how to apply.
Quick Summary – DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026
| Organization | Research Centre Imarat (DRDO RCI), Hyderabad |
| Post Name | Research Associate (RA) & Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
| Total Vacancies | 21 |
| Last Date to Apply | 13 September 2026 |
| Official Website | drdo.gov.in |
| Apply Mode | Offline (Speed Post/Registered Post) |
| Job Type | Contractual (Initially 1-2 years, extendable) |
Why Apply for DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026?
- Job Security: Work under a premier DRDO lab – a Central Government organization with high stability.
- Attractive Stipend: As per 7th CPC (approx. ₹35,000 – ₹60,000 per month for JRF/RA) plus HRA/medical benefits.
- Career Growth: Opportunity to work on cutting-edge defence technologies and get exposure to R&D at national level.
- Prestige: Being a part of DRDO boosts your resume for future PhDs, PSUs, and other government jobs.
DRDO RCI Vacancy 2026 – Detailed Breakdown
| Post Name | Discipline | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Research Associate (RA) | Deep Learning, ML, Power Electronics, RF, Quantum Optics | 2 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Electronics & Communication Engg. | 5 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Electrical & Electronics Engg. | 3 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Computer Science / IT | 2 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Mechanical Engg. | 5 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Aeronautical / Aerospace Engg. | 2 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Chemistry | 1 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Metallurgy | 1 |
| Total | 21 |
Eligibility Criteria for DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026
Research Associate (RA)
- Educational Qualification: Ph.D. in relevant discipline OR First Class M.Tech/M.E/M.Sc with at least 2 years of research experience in specified areas (Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Structural & Thermal Analysis, Power Electronics, RF & Microwave, Experimental Quantum Optics).
Junior Research Fellow (JRF)
- Educational Qualification: First Class B.E/B.Tech in relevant branch with valid GATE score OR M.E/M.Tech in relevant branch OR First Class M.Sc in relevant science with valid NET/GATE/SLET.
Age Limit
- Maximum: 35 years as of last date (13-09-2026).
- Relaxation: 5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) as per Government of India rules.
Use our Age Calculator to check your eligibility before applying.
Salary / Stipend – DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026
- Research Associate (RA): Stipend as per GoI norms (approx. ₹47,000 – ₹54,000 per month).
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF): As per DST/DRDO norms (approx. ₹31,000 – ₹35,000 per month).
- Additional HRA and medical benefits as applicable.
Important Dates – DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release in Employment News | 14 August 2026 |
| Last Date for Application | 13 September 2026 |
| Written Test (Tentative) | October 2026 (to be notified) |
| Interview (Tentative) | November 2026 |
Selection Process – DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026
- Application Scrutiny: Verification of eligibility and documents.
- Written Test: Objective-type questions on the subject and general aptitude.
- Interview: Face-to-face or virtual technical interview.
- Document Verification: Original certificates, caste certificate, etc.
How to Apply for DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026
Applications must be submitted offline. Follow these steps:
- Download the official notification PDF from here.
- Visit the official website drdo.gov.in and navigate to the 'Careers' section.
- Download the application form (provided in the notification).
- Fill the form with accurate personal, educational, and contact details.
- Attach self-attested copies of: photograph, signature, educational certificates, age proof, caste certificate (if applicable), GATE/NET/SLET score card, research experience certificates.
- Enclose the application in an envelope superscribed with “Application for the Post of ______ (RA/JRF) – Advt. No. RFS/HRD/RCI/2026”.
- Send via Speed Post or Registered Post to the address mentioned in the notification (see below).
- Ensure it reaches before 13 September 2026 by 5:00 PM.
- Keep a photocopy of the application and postal receipt for future reference.
Address for sending application: (Refer to official notification – typically: The Director, Research Centre Imarat, DRDO, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500069)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026
1. What is the last date to apply for DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026?
The last date for receipt of the offline application is 13 September 2026.
2. Can I apply online for these DRDO RCI posts?
No, the application mode is offline only. You need to send the filled application form via Speed Post/Registered Post to the specified address.
3. What is the age limit for JRF in DRDO RCI?
The maximum age limit is 35 years as of the last date. Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST/OBC as per government norms.
4. What is the stipend for Research Associate at DRDO RCI?
The stipend for RA is as per Government of India norms, which is approximately ₹47,000 – ₹54,000 per month plus HRA.
5. Is GATE/NET mandatory for JRF in DRDO RCI?
For B.E/B.Tech holders, a valid GATE score is required. For M.Sc holders, a valid NET/GATE/SLET is required. Those with M.E/M.Tech may be exempted if they have a first-class degree.
6. How many vacancies are there for JRF in Electronics & Communication?
There are 5 vacancies for Junior Research Fellow in Electronics & Communication Engineering.
7. Can I apply for both RA and JRF posts simultaneously?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for both, you can submit separate applications for each post.
8. What is the selection process for DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026?
The selection process includes scrutiny of applications, written test, interview, and document verification.
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