DRL DRDO invites applications for 05 Junior Research Fellow (JRF) vacancies. Eligibility: M.Pharm/M.Tech. Last Date for CV: May 12, 2026. Walk-in interview on May 19, 2026.
The Defence Research Laboratory (DRL), a prominent unit of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) located in Tezpur, Assam, has released an official advertisement for the recruitment of Junior Research Fellows (JRF). This presents a valuable opportunity for young and driven candidates holding M.Pharm or M.Tech degrees in specific disciplines to contribute to cutting-edge research projects. Eligible candidates are invited to submit their CVs by May 12, 2026, and attend a walk-in interview scheduled for May 19, 2026.
Quick Overview
| Organization | Defence Research Laboratory (DRL, DRDO) |
|---|---|
| Post Name | Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
| Total Vacancies | 05 |
| Last Date for CV Submission | May 12, 2026 |
| Interview Date | May 19, 2026 |
| Mode of Application | Email (for CV) followed by Walk-in Interview |
| Stipend | Rs. 37,000/- per month + HRA |
| Official Website | drdo.gov.in |
| Contact Email | hrd.drl@gov.in |
| Contact Number | 03712-258508/258836 |
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Number of Vacancies | Stipend |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 05 | Rs. 37,000/- per month with HRA |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Candidates must possess an M.Pharm/M.S(Pharm)/M.Tech(Pharm) or M.Tech in Pharmaceutics/Pharmacology & Toxicology/Pharmacology/Pharmaceutical Chemistry.
- Only candidates possessing a degree or provisional degree certificate are eligible to apply.
Age Limit
The maximum age limit for JRF is 28 years as on the date of the interview (May 19, 2026).
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | 05 years |
| OBC | 03 years |
Experience
While specific prior work experience is not a mandatory eligibility criterion, candidates are required to produce copies of published research papers and thesis at the time of the interview. Candidates currently employed in Government Departments, PSUs, or Autonomous Bodies must apply through the proper channel and produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer during the interview.
Application Fee
The official notification does not mention any application fee for the DRL DRDO JRF recruitment.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date for CV Submission | May 12, 2026 |
| Date of Walk-in-Interview | May 19, 2026 |
| Reporting Time for Interview | 09:30 AM – 10:00 AM |
Selection Process
The selection of Junior Research Fellows will be based on a walk-in-interview. Candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and follow the application steps to be considered.
How to Apply
Candidates interested in the DRL DRDO JRF positions must follow these steps:
- Prepare CV: Download and fill out the CV format (Appendix ‘A’ provided in the original notification) with all necessary details.
- Email CV: Send your complete CV (Appendix ‘A’) to the email address hrd.drl@gov.in on or before May 12, 2026.
- Attend Interview: Appear for the walk-in-interview on May 19, 2026, at the specified venue.
- Reporting Time: Report between 09:30 AM and 10:00 AM. Admission will be closed after 10:00 AM.
- Interview Venue: Defence Research Laboratory (DRL), DRDO, Solmara Military Station, Dekargaon, Tezpur, Assam.
- Carry Documents: Bring all original certificates/testimonials and your AADHAR card for verification.
- Photocopies: Carry one complete set of self-attested photocopies of all documents (degrees, mark sheets, experience certificates, etc.) along with your application.
- Research Papers: Candidates are also required to produce copies of any published research papers and their thesis during the interview.
- NOC for Govt. Employees: If currently employed in Government/PSU/Autonomous Bodies, bring an NOC from your employer.
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification (PDF) | Not provided separately; refer to the original PDF document |
| DRDO Official Website | drdo.gov.in |
| CV Format/Application Form | Appendix ‘A’ is part of the original notification PDF |
Job Profile & Career Scope
As a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) at DRL DRDO, you will be involved in cutting-edge research projects related to your specialization (Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, etc.). The role primarily focuses on:
- Assisting senior scientists in experimental design and execution.
- Data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
- Literature review and scientific writing.
- Contributing to various ongoing and future research initiatives of national importance.
Career Scope: The fellowship is initially for two years, with the possibility of upgrading to Senior Research Fellow (SRF) and extending for an additional 3rd and 4th year based on performance. This provides valuable research experience and a stepping stone for a career in defence research, academia, or the pharmaceutical industry. Successful performance and relevant experience can open doors for permanent positions within DRDO or other government research organizations.
Preparation Tips
For the Interview
- Subject Knowledge: Thoroughly revise your core subjects related to M.Pharm/M.Tech (Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, etc.). Be prepared to discuss theoretical concepts and practical applications.
- Research Background: Be ready to discuss your M.Pharm/M.Tech thesis work in detail, including objectives, methodology, results, and conclusions. If you have published papers, be prepared to present and discuss them.
- DRDO Awareness: Have a basic understanding of DRDO’s mission, its various laboratories, and relevant research areas, especially those of DRL Tezpur.
- Communication Skills: Practice clear and concise communication. Be confident in explaining your ideas and answering questions.
- Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in research and a willingness to learn and contribute to the lab’s projects.
Document Preparation
- Organize Documents: Keep all original certificates, mark sheets (from 10th standard onwards), degree certificates, AADHAR card, and caste certificates (if applicable) neatly organized in a file.
- Photocopy Set: Prepare one complete set of self-attested photocopies of all required documents.
- CV/Application Form: Ensure your CV (Appendix ‘A’) is complete, accurate, and includes all relevant academic and research details.
- NOC: If applicable, ensure you have the original No Objection Certificate from your current employer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the last date to apply for DRL DRDO JRF 2026?
The last date for submitting your CV via email is May 12, 2026.
Q2: What is the interview date for the Junior Research Fellow position?
The walk-in interview is scheduled for May 19, 2026.
Q3: Is there an application fee for this recruitment?
No application fee is mentioned in the official notification.
Q4: What is the age limit for JRF at DRL DRDO?
The maximum age limit is 28 years as on May 19, 2026, with age relaxation for SC/ST (5 years) and OBC (3 years) candidates.
Q5: What qualifications are required for the JRF posts?
Candidates must have an M.Pharm/M.S(Pharm)/M.Tech(Pharm) or M.Tech in Pharmaceutics/Pharmacology & Toxicology/Pharmacology/Pharmaceutical Chemistry.
Q6: Do I need to send hard copies of my application?
Initially, you need to send your CV via email. For the interview, you must carry original documents and one set of self-attested photocopies.
Q7: What documents should I carry for the walk-in interview?
You must carry all original educational certificates/testimonials, AADHAR card, copies of published research papers & thesis, one set of self-attested photocopies of all documents, and an NOC if you are a government employee.
Q8: What is the stipend for the JRF position?
The stipend for JRF is Rs. 37,000/- per month, along with House Rent Allowance (HRA).
Q9: Can candidates currently working in government apply?
Yes, but they must apply through the proper channel and produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer at the time of the interview.
Q10: What is the tenure of the fellowship?
The fellowship is initially for two years and may be upgraded to SRF and extended for the 3rd and 4th year based on performance.
