DRDO RCI Hyderabad 2026: RA & JRF Openings (Apply Offline)

DRDO's Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad is looking for talented Indian nationals for Research Associate (RA) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF) positions. These are temporary roles, but they offer a chance to work on cutting-edge defense technology. If you have a strong academic background in engineering or science, this could be a significant step for your career.

The application process is strictly offline. You need to send your application by speed post or courier. Pay close attention to the deadlines and required documents.

OpportunityResearch Associate (RA)Junior Research Fellow (JRF)Positions Open | 2 | 19
Stipend | As per GoI norms | As per GoI norms
Duration | 2 years | Initially 2 years (extendable to 4 years as SRF)
Application Mode | Offline (Speed Post/Courier) | Offline (Speed Post/Courier)
Last Date to Apply | 30 days from advertisement publication (August 14, 2026) | 30 days from advertisement publication (August 14, 2026)
Location | Hyderabad | Hyderabad

This is a great chance to contribute to defense research and gain valuable experience at a premier organization like DRDO. For more details on DRDO opportunities, you can explore our complete guide to DRDO internships.

DRDO RCI Hyderabad RA & JRF Eligibility Criteria

Research Associate (RA)

You need a Ph.D. in Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, EEE, ECE, or Physics. Specializations like Deep Learning, Machine Learning, RF & Microwave, or Experimental Quantum Optics are preferred. Alternatively, a First Class M. Tech in a relevant field with three years of research experience and at least one research paper in a Science Citation Indexed (SCI) journal is also acceptable. For Physics, a First Class M. Sc with four years of research experience in specific areas and an SCI paper works.

The age limit for RA is 35 years as of August 1, 2026, with relaxations for SC/ST (5 years) and OBC (3 years) candidates.

Junior Research Fellow (JRF)

For JRF, you need a First Class B.E. / B. Tech degree in Electrical & Electronics, Aerospace/Aeronautical, Electrical, Electronics & Communication, Computer Science & Engineering, Information Technology, Chemical, Mechanical, or Metallurgy Engineering with a valid GATE Score. Alternatively, a First Class B.E. / B. Tech in a relevant field with an ME / M. Tech in the same field also qualifies. If you have a First Class M.Sc. in Chemistry or Physics, you need a valid NET, GATE, or SLET score.

The age limit for JRF is 28 years as of August 1, 2026, with relaxations for SC/ST (5 years) and OBC (3 years) candidates.

Stipend Details

Both Research Associates and Junior Research Fellows will receive a monthly stipend as per Government of India norms. DRDO follows the Ministry of Defence guidelines for these temporary positions.

Duration of the Fellowship

The Research Associate position is for a temporary period of two years. The Junior Research Fellowship is initially for two years. Based on performance, it can be upgraded to Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) for one year, and then extended for another year as an SRF, making it a potential four-year tenure.

How to Apply for DRDO RCI Hyderabad RA & JRF

The application process is entirely offline. Make sure to follow these steps carefully:

1. Download the Application Form - Get the official application form from the DRDO website. You can find it linked in the advertisement PDF here.
2. Fill the Form Accurately - Complete the application form in CAPITAL LETTERS. Tick the appropriate box for RA or JRF and mention your discipline. Fill in your personal details, educational qualifications, GATE/NET/SLET scores, and work experience.
3. Attach Required Documents - Self-attest and attach photocopies of all necessary documents. This includes educational certificates, 10th certificate (for birth date proof), caste certificate (if applicable for age relaxation), work experience certificates, Aadhaar card, and GATE/SLET/NET score card. RA applicants must also attach research publications.
4. Affix Photograph - Attach a recent passport-size color photograph to the form.
5. Address the Envelope - Clearly superscribe the envelope with either "APPLICATION FOR THE VACANCY OF RESEARCH ASSOCIATE" or "APPLICATION FOR THE VACANCY OF JUNIOR RESEARCH FELLOW", depending on the position you are applying for.
6. Send by Speed Post/Courier - Send the filled and ink-signed application form along with all documents only through SPEED POST or COURIER to: "HEAD HRD, DR. APJ ABDUL KALAM MISSILE COMPLEX, RESEARCH CENTRE IMARAT (RCI), PO-VIGYANA KANCHA, HYDERABAD, TELANGANA – 500 069."
7. Meet the Deadline - Your application must reach the address within 30 days from the date of advertisement publication (August 14, 2026). This means the last date is September 13, 2026.

Incomplete applications will be rejected. Email applications will not be accepted.

Selection Process

For Research Associates, applications will be scrutinized based on research work experience and Ph.D. thesis relevance. Shortlisted candidates will then be called for an interview.

For Junior Research Fellows, applications are screened based on academic percentage. Shortlisted candidates may be called for a written test, an interview, or both.

No travel allowance (TA) or daily allowance (DA) will be paid for attending the test, document verification, interview, or joining duty.

Important Notes for Applicants

• The RA and JRF positions are temporary and do not guarantee absorption into DRDO or any other government department.
• The period spent as an RA or JRF will not count towards service in DRDO or other government roles.
• The number of vacancies might change without prior notice.
• If you work in a government or public sector undertaking, you need to produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) at the time of the interview.
• Carry all original testimonials (certificates, mark sheets, community certificate) for verification at the time of joining, along with photocopies, Aadhaar card, and two passport-size photographs.
• For any doubts or queries, you can contact 040-24306635.

This is a solid opportunity for those interested in research careers in the defense sector. For more government research roles, check out our guide on government internships.