DRDO VRDE JRF Recruitment 2026: Comprehensive Notification Overview
Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE), a premier laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), located at Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, has released an official recruitment notification for the engagement of Junior Research Fellows (JRF). A total of 5 vacancies have been announced across specialized engineering disciplines. Candidates possessing required educational qualifications and research aptitude are invited to participate in the walk-in interview scheduled for 06 October 2026, following online registration starting 27 September 2026.
This fellowship scheme offers an exceptional opportunity for passionate young engineering graduates and postgraduates to work on advanced defense vehicle technologies, automotive research, systems engineering, and state-of-the-art technological developments under the guidance of top scientists in India.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
The recruitment drive is being conducted to fill temporary Junior Research Fellow positions in specific technological domains. Below is the breakdown of post details along with essential qualification requirements:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Essential Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 05 | B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical, Automobile, Electrical, Electronics, or relevant discipline in First Division with a valid GATE score OR M.E./M.Tech in First Division both at Graduate and Post Graduate level. |
Detailed Eligibility Guidelines:
- Graduate Degree: First-class B.E. or B.Tech degree from a recognized University or Institute along with a valid Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) score.
- Postgraduate Degree: First-class M.E. or M.Tech degree from a recognized University or Institute with First Class marks in B.E./B.Tech as well.
- Desirable Qualifications: Candidates with practical exposure to CAD/CAM software, embedded systems, vehicular dynamics, control systems, testing, and simulation will be given preference during shortlisting and interviews.
Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
Age requirements and applicable relaxations for candidates applying for the JRF post at DRDO VRDE are structured according to Government of India rules:
- Upper Age Limit: Maximum 28 years as on the date of the walk-in interview (06 October 2026).
- Relaxation for SC / ST Candidates: Upper age limit is relaxable by up to 5 years (Maximum 33 years).
- Relaxation for OBC (NCL) Candidates: Upper age limit is relaxable by up to 3 years (Maximum 31 years).
- Relaxation for PwBD Candidates: Upper age limit is relaxable as per standard Central Government guidelines.
Pay Scale, Fellowship Emoluments, & Tenure
Selected candidates as Junior Research Fellows will be awarded a lucrative monthly fellowship along with associated perks as prescribed by DRDO rules:
- Monthly Fellowship: Stipend of Rs. 37,000/- per month (Consolidated).
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): HRA as per prevailing Government of India rates admissible at Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, if hostel accommodation is not provided.
- Medical Benefits & Leaves: Medical coverage and leave benefits will be provided as per DRDO fellowship regulations.
- Tenure of Fellowship: The fellowship is initially for a period of two years, extendable up to a maximum of four years subject to satisfactory academic and research progress reviewed annually.
Selection Process & Assessment Methodology
The selection methodology adopted by DRDO VRDE ensures a rigorous, merit-based screening process:
- Initial Screening: Applications received will be screened on the basis of academic qualification percentage, GATE performance score, and relevance of technical background.
- Walk-in Interview: Shortlisted/eligible candidates will appear for a walk-in interview on 06 October 2026 at VRDE Ahmednagar.
- Written/Screening Test (If Required): In case the number of candidate walk-ins is very high, VRDE reserves the right to conduct a preliminary written screening test prior to the personal interview.
- Final Selection Merit List: Final selection will be determined purely on performance in the personal interview subject to verification of original certificates and medical fitness.
Detailed Interview Pattern & Evaluation Scheme
| Evaluation Stage | Assessment Focus Area | Maximum Marks / Nature |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Record & GATE Score | Undergraduate/Postgraduate Marks & GATE Score Validity | Screening Criteria |
| Personal Interview | Core Technical Knowledge, Analytical Abilities, Project Work, & Aptitude | 100 Marks |
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fill the Online Application & Attend Walk-in
Candidates aspiring to join DRDO VRDE as a Junior Research Fellow must strictly follow the application and reporting steps detailed below:
- Step 1: Visit the official DRDO website at
drdo.gov.inand navigate to the 'Careers' or 'What's New' section. - Step 2: Locate and download the official VRDE JRF Notification 2026 and standard application form template.
- Step 3: Fill out the prescribed application form completely with correct personal details, academic marks, GATE details, and contact info.
- Step 4: Submit or register online as instructed in the notification starting from 27 September 2026.
- Step 5: Prepare self-attested photocopies of all supportive documents (Date of birth proof, degree certificates, mark sheets, GATE scorecard, caste certificate, ID proof).
- Step 6: Report to the venue (VRDE, Vahan Nagar, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra - 414006) on 06 October 2026 along with the completed application form, original documents, and recent passport-size photographs.
Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification
Candidates must carry the following documents in original along with one set of self-attested photocopies on the date of interview:
- Duly filled and signed application form in the prescribed format.
- Proof of Date of Birth (10th/SSLC Board Certificate).
- All semester mark sheets and degree certificates (B.E./B.Tech/M.E./M.Tech).
- Valid GATE Score Card (if applicable).
- Caste Certificate (SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer format) issued by a competent authority.
- Valid Photo Identity Card (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License).
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from current employer if working in Govt/PSU/Autonomous bodies.
- Two recent passport-sized color photographs.