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

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

Selection Process – DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026

1. Application Scrutiny: Verification of eligibility and documents.
2. Written Test: Objective-type questions on the subject and general aptitude.
3. Interview: Face-to-face or virtual technical interview.
4. Document Verification: Original certificates, caste certificate, etc.

How to Apply for DRDO RCI Recruitment 2026

Applications must be submitted offline. Follow these steps:

1. Download the official notification PDF from here.
2. Visit the official website drdo.gov.in and navigate to the 'Careers' section.
3. Download the application form (provided in the notification).
4. Fill the form with accurate personal, educational, and contact details.
5. Attach self-attested copies of: photograph, signature, educational certificates, age proof, caste certificate (if applicable), GATE/NET/SLET score card, research experience certificates.
6. Enclose the application in an envelope superscribed with “Application for the Post of ______ (RA/JRF) – Advt. No. RFS/HRD/RCI/2026”.
7. Send via Speed Post or Registered Post to the address mentioned in the notification (see below).
8. Ensure it reaches before 13 September 2026 by 5:00 PM.
9. 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