**Walk-in Interview for Junior Research Fellow (JRF) at Vehicle Research and Development E

About the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is a premier agency under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, dedicated to advancing military technology and research. Established in 1958 through the merger of key technical and scientific institutions, DRDO has grown into India’s largest and most diverse research organization, operating 52 laboratories across the country.

With a workforce of over 30,000 professionals, including 5,000 scientists under the Defence Research & Development Service (DRDS), DRDO spearheads innovation in aeronautics, armaments, electronics, life sciences, materials, missiles, and naval systems. Its mission is to empower India’s defence capabilities through cutting-edge research and indigenous technological solutions.

In 2026, DRDO continues its commitment to nurturing young talent by announcing a walk-in-interview for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions at the Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (VRDE), Ahilyanagar. This recruitment drive offers aspiring researchers an opportunity to contribute to India’s defence R&D ecosystem.

Vacancy Details

The Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (VRDE), Ahilyanagar, a premier laboratory under DRDO, has announced openings for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions. Below are the key details:

About the Role

The Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) is a prestigious opportunity for young graduates and postgraduates to engage in high-impact defence research. Selected candidates will work under the guidance of senior scientists at VRDE, Ahilyanagar, contributing to projects in vehicle technology, automotive engineering, and related defence applications.

This fellowship is ideal for candidates passionate about applied research, innovation, and technological development in defence systems. The role offers exposure to state-of-the-art laboratories, mentorship from experts, and the chance to publish research findings in reputed journals.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the following educational and age-related criteria to be eligible for the JRF position at VRDE, Ahilyanagar:

Educational Qualifications

• Essential:
  • B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related disciplines with a minimum of 60% marks (or equivalent CGPA) from a recognized university/institute.
  • OR
  • M.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry, or Materials Science with a minimum of 60% marks (or equivalent CGPA) and a valid GATE/NET qualification.
• Desirable:
  • Prior research experience in vehicle dynamics, composite materials, or defence-related projects.
  • Publications in peer-reviewed journals or conference proceedings.
  • Proficiency in CAD/CAM tools, finite element analysis (FEA), or computational fluid dynamics (CFD).

Age Limit

The maximum age limit for applicants is 28 years as of the date of the walk-in interview. Age relaxation is applicable as per Government of India rules:

• OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years
• SC/ST: 5 years
• PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities): 10 years
• Ex-Servicemen: As per extant guidelines

Nationality

Applicants must be citizens of India.

Application Process

The selection for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) at VRDE, Ahilyanagar, will be conducted through a walk-in-interview. Below are the steps to apply:

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Download the Application Form:
   • Visit the official DRDO website (https://www.drdo.gov.in) or the VRDE Ahilyanagar page.
   • Locate the “Vacancies” section and download the JRF Application Form (PDF size: 265.46 KB).
2. Fill the Application Form:
   • Complete the form with accurate personal, educational, and professional details.
   • Attach self-attested copies of:
     • Educational certificates (10th, 12th, Graduation, Postgraduation).
     • GATE/NET scorecard (if applicable).
     • Proof of age (Birth Certificate/10th Certificate).
     • Caste/Category certificate (for reserved categories).
     • Disability certificate (for PwBD candidates).
     • Experience certificates (if any).
3. Walk-in-Interview:
   • Report to the VRDE, Ahilyanagar campus on the scheduled date (see Important Dates below).
   • Carry the duly filled application form along with original documents for verification.
   • The interview will assess the candidate’s technical knowledge, research aptitude, and subject expertise.

Application Fee

There is no application fee for this recruitment drive. The selection process is entirely merit-based.

Selection Criteria

Candidates will be evaluated based on:

• Academic performance (weightage given to GATE/NET scores).
• Relevance of educational background to the research area.
• Performance in the interview, including technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
• Prior research experience (if any).

Important Dates

Mark these dates in your calendar to ensure you don’t miss the opportunity: