Job Description
Overview
The Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR), a premier laboratory under the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), is actively seeking motivated researchers for Junior Research Fellow (JRF) and Research Associate (RA) positions. These roles are essential for advancing critical defence-related research projects conducted in high-altitude environments. Successful candidates will contribute to cutting-edge scientific developments while working alongside experienced defence scientists.
Key Responsibilities
- Conducting rigorous experimental research in designated engineering disciplines to support defence objectives.
- Analyzing complex data sets and preparing detailed technical reports for project documentation.
- Collaborating with senior researchers to design and implement innovative technological solutions.
- Maintaining laboratory equipment and ensuring adherence to safety protocols during high-altitude research activities.
- Presenting research findings in internal seminars and contributing to scientific publications.
- Assisting in the development of prototypes and testing procedures for field-ready defence applications.
Why Apply
Joining DIHAR offers a unique opportunity to work on national-level defence projects with significant social and strategic impact. Researchers benefit from a professional environment that fosters innovation, provides access to advanced laboratory facilities, and offers competitive monthly stipends along with HRA.
Important Dates
- Walk-in Interview Date: 01 September 2026
- Reporting Time: 08:45 AM
Quick Facts
- Total Vacancies: 18 Posts
- Pay Scale: Up to ₹67,000 + HRA
- Location: Chandigarh
- Category: Defence Research
DRDO DIHAR JRF & RA Recruitment 2026 Overview
Exam Date
01 Sep 2026
Salary
JRF: ₹37,000 + HRA | RA: ₹67,000 + HRA
Vacancies
18
Eligibility
B.E./B.Tech/M.Tech
Vacancy Details
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF): 16 Posts
- Research Associate (RA): 02 Posts
How to Apply
- Verify your eligibility against the official notification requirements regarding age, qualification, and subject.
- Prepare a neatly typed Bio-data containing all relevant personal and academic details.
- Organize original certificates for Date of Birth and essential qualifications, along with one self-attested photocopy of each document.
- Include proof of experience for RA posts and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if currently employed in a government or public sector organization.
- Report to the DIHAR Base Station in Chandigarh by 08:45 AM on 01 September 2026.
- Participate in the document verification and walk-in interview process.
- Retain a copy of your submitted documents for your personal records.
Application Fee
There is no application fee for any category. The process is entirely free of cost.
Age Limit
JRF: 28 years; RA: 35 years (as on 01.09.2026). Relaxations apply for reserved categories.
Selection Process
The selection process is conducted through a walk-in interview. Initially, candidates undergo a screening process based on their educational qualifications and eligibility criteria. Those who meet the requirements proceed to the interview stage, where their technical knowledge and research aptitude are evaluated. Finally, successful candidates must undergo document verification to confirm their credentials before final selection. No TA/DA is provided for attending the interview process.
Exam Pattern
The selection is based on a walk-in interview and document verification. There is no written examination mentioned for this recruitment.
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Organization
The Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR) is a specialized laboratory operating under the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Established to address the unique challenges of high-altitude environments, DIHAR focuses on research and development in areas critical to national defence. The institute is headquartered in Leh with support facilities in Chandigarh, and it plays a pivotal role in enhancing the operational efficiency and sustainability of defence forces in extreme terrains.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are a total of 18 vacancies available for this recruitment drive. This includes 16 positions for Junior Research Fellows (JRF) and 2 positions for Research Associates (RA). Please refer to the official notification for the specific subject-wise breakdown of these posts.
For JRF, candidates need a B.E./B.Tech in the first division with a valid GATE score or an M.Tech in the first division. For RA, candidates must have an M.Tech in a relevant subject, three years of research/teaching experience, and at least one research paper published in an SCI journal.
The maximum age limit is 28 years for JRF and 35 years for RA as of 01 September 2026. Age relaxations are applicable for SC, ST, and OBC candidates as per the Government of India orders. Ensure you have valid proof of age for the document verification stage.
No, there is no application fee for the DRDO DIHAR JRF & RA recruitment. The application process is completely free for all categories of candidates. You do not need to make any payments to participate in the walk-in interview.
The walk-in interview is scheduled for 01 September 2026. Candidates must report by 08:45 AM at the DIHAR Base Station, Near 3 BRD, Industrial Area Phase-II, Chandigarh – 160002. Please arrive on time with all required documents.
The monthly stipend for the Junior Research Fellow (JRF) is ₹37,000 plus HRA, while the Research Associate (RA) receives ₹67,000 plus HRA. These stipends are provided in accordance with the standard DRDO research fellowship guidelines.
The selection process consists of three main stages: screening based on your qualifications and eligibility, a walk-in interview to assess your technical knowledge, and document verification. Only candidates who pass the initial screening will be allowed to participate in the interview.
To apply, you must appear in person for the walk-in interview. Prepare a typed bio-data, bring original certificates, self-attested photocopies, and any required experience proof or NOC. Report to the specified venue in Chandigarh on the interview date. Check the official notification PDF for full details.
