DRDO DYSL-SM JRF 2026: ₹37,000 Stipend & Walk-In Interview

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) through its Young Scientists’ Laboratory for Smart Materials (DYSL-SM) in Hyderabad is looking for talented Indian nationals for a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). This is a chance to work on projects involving smart materials for national defence, specifically in areas like accelerated materials development, micro-robotics, and stealth technologies.

This JRF position offers a monthly stipend of ₹37,000 and is initially for two years. If you have a B.E/B.Tech in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering with a valid GATE score, or an M.E./M.Tech in related fields, this opportunity could be for you. The selection will happen through a walk-in interview.

AspectDetailOrganization | DRDO Young Scientists’ Laboratory for Smart Materials (DYSL-SM)
Position | Junior Research Fellow (JRF)
Location | Kanchanbagh, Hyderabad
Stipend | ₹37,000 per month + HRA
Number of Positions | 01
Tenure | 2 years (initial)
Walk-in Interview Date | October 6, 2026, 09:30 AM
Application Deadline (Email) | October 6, 2026
Official Advertisement | Download Advertisement and Application Form

DRDO DYSL-SM JRF 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Candidates need to meet specific academic and age requirements to apply for this JRF position.

Educational Qualification

• For Mechanical Engineering:
  • B.E/B.Tech in Mechanical/Mechatronics Engineering with First Class and a valid GATE score, OR
  • M.E./M.Tech with First Class in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Robotics & Automation, Machine Design, or Solid Mechanics. You also need a B.E/B.Tech in Mechanical/Mechatronics Engineering with First Class.

Desirable Skills

Working knowledge of finite element packages, CAD, 3D Printing, Composite Materials, basic electronics, and instrumentation is a plus.

Age Limit

The maximum age for JRF is 28 years as of the application date. Age relaxation applies for SC/ST (5 years) and OBC (3 years) candidates, or as per Government guidelines. You need to attach a self-attested copy of your caste certificate if applicable.

Only candidates who have completed their course and received their degree or provisional certificate can apply. If you have already held a JRF position at another DRDO lab, you are not eligible for this one. For more opportunities, check out our guide on DRDO internships.

Stipend and Tenure Details

This Junior Research Fellowship at DRDO DYSL-SM comes with a competitive stipend and benefits.

• Fellowship Emoluments: You will receive ₹37,000 per month. Applicable House Rent Allowance (HRA) and other emoluments will be provided as per DRDO rules.
• Tenure: The fellowship is temporary and has an initial duration of two years. There is a possibility of upgradation to Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) grade, following DRDO guidelines.

It is important to remember that this fellowship does not guarantee absorption into DRDO. However, selected JRF candidates might be allowed to register for a part-time Ph.D. with a university or institution during their fellowship tenure, with approval from the Director, DYSL-SM.

How to Apply for DRDO DYSL-SM JRF 2026

The application process involves both online submission and a walk-in interview. Make sure you follow all steps carefully.

1. Download Application Form: First, download the application form from the DRDO website. You can find it in the advertisement PDF by clicking on the 'Advertisement and Application Form' link in the table above or directly from Click here.
   Fill the Form: Complete the application form. Affix a recent passport-size photograph to the top right corner of the first page.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather all your original certificates and one set of self-attested copies of all degrees, academic qualification certificates, mark sheets, and experience certificates.
3. Email Application: Scan your duly filled application form along with the supporting documents into a single PDF file (under 10MB). Email this PDF to hrd.dysl-sm@gov.in before the walk-in interview date.
4. Attend Walk-in Interview: Report for the walk-in interview on October 6, 2026, at 09:30 AM at the following address:
   DRDO Young Scientists Laboratory for Smart Materials (DYSL-SM),
   AMTL Campus (near DMRL),
   KANCHANBAGH, HYDERABAD-500058.
   Latecomers will not be allowed. Remember to bring all your original certificates and a set of self-attested copies for verification.

If you are currently working in a Government, Public Sector Undertaking, or Autonomous Body, you must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer. A format for this is available in the advertisement PDF. You will also need to submit a declaration regarding intimation to your Cadre Controlling Authority.

Important Points to Note

• Screening of applications will consider your GATE score, marks in your degree, fulfillment of desirable criteria, and any relevant work experience. Your GATE score must be valid on the interview date.
• A panel of candidates will be drawn based on interviews, valid for one year. Empanelment does not guarantee a fellowship offer; it depends on actual vacancies.
• The Director, DYSL-SM, can choose not to select any candidate if suitable ones are not available.
• No Travel Allowance (TA) or Daily Allowance (DA) will be paid for attending the interview or for joining if selected.
• The number of fellowships may change based on requirements or government policy.

This is a great opportunity for freshers to kickstart their research career in defence technology. You can explore more such openings on Talentd's articles page.