DRDO DYSL CT JRF Recruitment 2026: High-Value Research Fellowship Opportunity in Cognitive Technology
Introduction
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has released an official recruitment advertisement inviting applications for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions at its advanced research unit, DRDO Young Scientists Laboratory – Cognitive Technology (DYSL-CT), Chennai. This recruitment is aimed at young, highly motivated engineering graduates and postgraduates who aspire to work on next-generation defense technologies such as Cognitive Radio, Cognitive Radar, and Cognitive Surveillance systems.
The DRDO DYSL CT JRF Recruitment 2026 is an excellent opportunity for candidates who want to pursue a research-oriented career under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend of ₹37,000 plus HRA, work alongside eminent scientists, and collaborate with premier institutes like IITs and leading universities.
Table of Contents
DRDO JRF Recruitment 2026 – Key Highlights
- Recruiting Authority: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
- Laboratory: DRDO Young Scientists Laboratory – Cognitive Technology (DYSL-CT), Chennai
- Fellowship Name: Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
- Nature of Engagement: Temporary (Research Fellowship)
- Duration: Initially 2 years, extendable up to 4 years
- Monthly Stipend: ₹37,000 + HRA
- Selection Process: Interview only
- Application Mode: Offline + Email copy
- Work Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Total Vacancies
01 Post*
* Number of vacancies may change as per organizational requirements.
Advertisement No.
DYSL-CT/ADM/JRF-SRF/15/2025-26/11
DRDO Junior Research Fellowship 2026 – Short Description
The DRDO JRF Recruitment 2026 is conducted to engage young researchers with strong academic backgrounds in Computer Science, Information Science, Electronics, Electrical, Telecommunication, and Instrumentation Engineering. The selected candidate will work on cutting-edge defense research projects involving machine learning, embedded systems, cognitive technologies, algorithms, and communication systems under the guidance of senior DRDO scientists.
Important Dates and Application Fee – DRDO JRF 2026
Important Dates
- Application Begins: 16/2/2026
- Last Date to Apply: 8/3/2026
- Admit Card: Not Applicable
- Examination Date: Not Applicable (Selection through Interview)
Application Fee
- General / EWS / OBC: ₹0
- SC / ST / PH / Women: ₹0
- Mode of Payment: Not Applicable (No fee required)
Posts, Vacancy, Age Limit, Pay Scale & Qualification Details: DRDO DYSL CT JRF Recruitment 2026
DRDO JRF Vacancy Details 2026
| Post Name / Pay Scale | Total Vacancy | Educational Qualification |
| Junior Research Fellowship (₹37,000 + HRA) | 01 | Option 1: B.E./B.Tech in Computer Science / Computer Engineering / Information Science OR Electrical / Electronics / Telecommunication / Instrumentation Engineering (First Division) from an AICTE-approved institute with CSIR-UGC NET or GATE qualification Option 2: M.E./M.Tech in a relevant discipline (First Division in both UG & PG) from an AICTE-approved institute |
Desirable Skills (Indicative):
- Algorithm design and analysis
- Programming in C, C++, Python
- Embedded systems & DSP
- Machine Learning concepts
- Open-source development frameworks
- Exposure to Cognitive Technologies
Age Limit
- Maximum Age: 28 years (as on the last date of application)
Age Relaxation
- SC / ST / OBC (NCL): As per Government of India rules
Cut-off Date for Age Calculation
- Last date of receipt of application
How to Apply for DRDO JRF Recruitment 2026
Eligible candidates must apply offline by submitting a duly filled application form along with the required documents.
Application Steps:
- Download the application form from the official DRDO website.
- Fill in all details carefully in block letters.
- Attach self-attested copies of educational qualifications, NET/GATE proof, and experience (if any).
- Superscribe the envelope with “Application for JRF” on the top left corner.
- Send the hard copy to the address below within 20 days of advertisement publication.
- Additionally, email a soft copy of the application to the official email ID.
Postal Address:
The Director
DRDO Young Scientists Laboratory – Cognitive Technology
E-Block, 5th Floor, IITM Research Park
Taramani, Chennai – 600113
Email ID: [email protected]
Documents Required for DRDO JRF Application
- Filled out the application form
- Self-attested mark sheets & degree certificates
- CSIR-UGC NET / GATE qualification proof
- CGPA-to-percentage conversion certificate (if applicable)
- Experience certificates (if any)
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Government employees: Declaration & NOC at the interview stage
Selection Process – DRDO DYSL CT JRF Recruitment 2026
- Interview Only
Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the date, time, venue, and mode of interview via email and at their registered mobile number. Final results may also be published on the DRDO website.
Important Instructions for Applicants: DRDO DYSL CT JRF Recruitment 2026
- Fellowship is purely temporary and does not guarantee absorption in DRDO.
- Candidates who have already been awarded a JRF at any DRDO lab are not eligible.
- Government/PSU employees must apply through the proper channel.
- Incomplete or late applications will be rejected.
- No TA/DA will be paid for attending the interview.
Why This DRDO JRF Job Is Perfect For You
This opportunity is ideal for candidates who are passionate about defense research and advanced technology development. If you aspire to work on national-level strategic projects, collaborate with India’s top scientists, and gain exposure to real-world applications of AI, machine learning, communication systems, and embedded technologies, this JRF position offers unmatched professional growth. It is especially suitable for candidates planning a future PhD or long-term R&D career in defense and strategic sectors.
FAQs: DRDO DYSL CT JRF Recruitment 2026
Q1. What is the stipend for the DRDO Junior Research Fellowship 2026?
The selected JRF will receive ₹37,000 per month plus HRA as applicable.
Q2. Is there any application fee for the DRDO JRF Recruitment?
No, there is no application fee for any category.
Q3. What is the selection process for DRDO JRF 2026?
Selection is done purely through an interview.
Important Links
- Official DRDO Website – Apply & Notification
- Official Notification
- Application Form (JRF DYSL-CT)
- Email for Queries: [email protected]
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