IISc DIA-RCoE Director Recruitment 2026: Apply by June 01

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru, in collaboration with DRDO Industry Academia – Raman Centre of Excellence (DIA-RCoE IISc), has released an advertisement for the prestigious position of Director, DIA-RCoE. This is a unique opportunity for highly experienced professionals to lead a cutting-edge research centre focused on advanced technology research in collaboration with DRDO. Suitable candidates with a strong background in engineering, technology, or science and significant experience are invited to apply for this full-time contract-based position. The last date to submit applications is June 01, 2026.

Quick Overview

Vacancy Details

The recruitment is for a single, highly critical leadership position within the DIA-RCoE IISc.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

• Doctoral/Master’s Degree in Engineering, Technology or Science from a recognized University or equivalent.

Age Limit

Experience

• Essential: 25 years of experience in technology domains or Defence (technical domain), not limited to the specific technology areas mentioned in paragraph 2 of the official notification.
• Desirable:
  • Wide-ranging experience and exposure to collaborative projects, setting up large research facilities, strategic research planning, and technology transfer with demonstrated capability.
  • Exposure to multi-node projects across labs/organizations/academia/industry interactions with awareness of global developments in relevant areas.
  • Experience in the defence domain concerning research/coordination and technology development/deployment for useful outcomes. Alternatively, a strong record of publications and patents, laboratory/course development, and/or other recognized relevant professional activities leading to defence or related technology development in the country.
  • Exposure to academic and industry-oriented research/coordination towards the realization of technology/systems.

Application Fee

The official notification does not mention any application fee for this position. Candidates are advised to apply as per the instructions without any payment.

Important Dates

Selection Process

The selection process for the Director, DIA-RCoE position will likely involve a thorough review of applications, followed by interviews with shortlisted candidates. The notification also explicitly states that applicants should provide contact details of at least two references who may be contacted during the selection process. This indicates a comprehensive evaluation of the candidate’s professional background and leadership capabilities.

• Initial screening of applications (CV and statement of suitability).
• Evaluation of candidates’ qualifications, experience, and leadership potential.
• Reference checks with provided contacts.
• Personal Interview(s) with a selection committee.

How to Apply

Interested and eligible candidates must submit their applications via email by the specified deadline. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Prepare a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) in PDF format.
2. Draft a brief statement explaining why you are well-suited for the Director, DIA-RCoE position. This statement should highlight your qualifications, experience, and how they align with the requirements of the role.
3. Combine your detailed CV and the statement of suitability into a single PDF file. Any other attachments should also be part of this single PDF.
4. Name the attached PDF file as <first name>.<last name>.pdf (e.g., John.Doe.pdf).
5. Ensure your date of birth is clearly provided in your application/CV.
6. If you are currently working in a full-time position with a government organization, you must also submit a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from your parent organization.
7. Send the complete PDF application file via email to dean.ids@iisc.ac.in.
8. Additionally, send a copy of the email to office.divdeans@iisc.ac.in.
9. The subject line of your email must be: “Application for Director, DIA-RCoE, IISc Bengaluru”.
10. Ensure submission before the last date of 01 June 2026.

Important Links

Job Profile & Career Scope

The Director of DIA-RCoE IISc is a pivotal leadership role, serving as the administrative and executive head of the centre. This position demands a visionary leader responsible for providing strategic guidance, overall management, and developing long-term research and technology roadmaps aligned with DRDO’s future technology requirements. The Director will oversee project execution, foster industrial collaborations, facilitate agreements, and drive knowledge dissemination through various academic and industry interactions. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape national defence technology, contribute to cutting-edge research, and lead a team of brilliant minds. Career growth in such a position typically involves significant influence on national research policies, opportunities for international collaborations, and recognition as a leading expert in defence and advanced technology domains.

Preparation Tips

Given the senior nature of this role, preparation should focus on showcasing your leadership, strategic thinking, and extensive experience.

Crafting a Strong Application

• Tailor your CV: Highlight achievements and experiences directly relevant to the essential and desirable qualifications, especially in technology domains, defence research, project management, and collaboration.
• Compelling Statement of Suitability: This is crucial. Clearly articulate your vision for DIA-RCoE, how your experience aligns with its objectives, and what strategic contributions you can make. Use specific examples.
• References: Choose referees who can speak to your leadership, research capabilities, collaborative skills, and strategic impact. Inform them in advance.

Interview Preparation (if shortlisted)

• Understand DIA-RCoE & DRDO: Research the centre’s mission, ongoing projects, and DRDO’s strategic goals. Be prepared to discuss how you would align the centre’s work with these.
• Leadership & Vision: Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy, experience in managing large research teams, and your vision for the centre’s growth and impact.
• Technical Acumen: Be ready to discuss your expertise in relevant technology domains and how you stay updated with advancements.
• Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions on how you would address challenges in research, funding, collaboration, and technology transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the full form of DIA-RCoE?

A: DIA-RCoE stands for DRDO Industry Academia – Raman Centre of Excellence.

Q2: What is the primary objective of DIA-RCoE IISc?

A: The primary objective is to collaborate with academic researchers, faculty, start-ups, industries, and other institutes in facilitating and progressing advanced technology research, particularly in areas relevant to DRDO.

Q3: Is there an application fee for the Director position?

A: No, the official notification does not mention any application fee for this recruitment.

Q4: Can candidates from the private sector apply for this position?

A: Yes, the notification provides remuneration details specifically for “Non-Govt. employee (Without any Govt Pension benefits)”, indicating that candidates from the private sector are eligible to apply.

Q5: What is the age limit for applying to this post?

A: The applicant’s age should be below 62 years as on the closing date of receipt of applications, which is June 01, 2026.

Q6: What documents are required for the application?

A: You need a detailed CV in PDF format, a brief statement of why you are suitable for the position, and a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) if you are a full-time government employee. All should be combined into a single PDF file.

Q7: What is the tenure of the Director position?

A: The initial appointment is for a period of 3 years, renewable annually for an additional 2 years based on performance review. The position may be discontinued with 3 months’ notice from either side.

Q8: What is the last date to apply?

A: The last date for receiving the application/CV is 01 June 2026.