DRDO ARDE Recruitment 2026 - Apply Offline for 24 Junior Research Fellow & Research Associate Posts

Pune
Apply By: 31 Aug 2026
Status: Active / Open

Job Description

Overview

The Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune, a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has announced a recruitment drive for 24 positions. The organization is seeking qualified Indian Nationals to fill roles as Junior Research Fellows (JRF) and Research Associates (RA) to contribute to advanced research projects. This initiative offers a significant platform for young researchers and engineers to work on cutting-edge defense technology.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conducting high-level research in specialized engineering disciplines including Electronics, Computer Science, and Mechanical engineering.
  • Assisting senior scientists in the development and testing of armament systems and related technologies.
  • Analyzing complex data sets and preparing technical reports based on experimental findings.
  • Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to achieve project milestones within the stipulated timelines.
  • Maintaining laboratory equipment and ensuring adherence to safety protocols during research activities.
  • Documenting research methodologies and outcomes for future reference and institutional knowledge sharing.

Why Apply

Selected candidates will receive a competitive monthly stipend along with HRA and medical benefits. Working at a DRDO laboratory provides unparalleled exposure to national-level defense projects and professional mentorship from leading experts in the field.

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: 31 August 2026

Quick Facts

  • Total Vacancies: 24
  • Pay Scale: Rs. 37,000 (JRF) to Rs. 67,000 (RA)
  • Location: Pune
  • Category: Defence Research

DRDO ARDE Recruitment 2026 - Apply Offline for 24 Junior Research Fellow & Research Associate Posts Overview

End Date
31 Aug 2026
Salary
Rs. 37,000 - Rs. 67,000
Vacancies
24
Eligibility
B.E./B.Tech/M.E./M.Tech/M.Sc./Ph.D.

Vacancy Details

  • JRF (Electronics): 08
  • JRF (Computer Science): 04
  • JRF (Mechanical): 10
  • JRF (Aerospace): 01
  • RA (Electronics): 01

How to Apply

  1. Obtain the official Bio-data proforma from the DRDO website.
  2. Fill out the form in your own handwriting with all required personal and academic details.
  3. Affix a recent passport-size photograph on the top right corner of the document.
  4. Attach self-attested copies of your educational certificates, NET/GATE scorecards, and caste certificates if applicable.
  5. Sign the declaration section of the application form.
  6. Clearly write the name of the post applied for on the envelope.
  7. Send the completed application via post to: The Director, Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Armament Post, Pashan, Pune - 411 021.
  8. Ensure the application reaches the office by 31 August 2026.
  9. Keep a photocopy of the submitted application for your personal records.

Application Fee

Nil. No application fee is required for any category.

Age Limit

JRF: 28 years; RA: 35 years. Relaxation: 5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC.

Selection Process

The selection process involves a rigorous screening of applications. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in the interview and/or written test. The specific dates and venue for these assessments will be communicated individually to the candidates via email. During the interview, candidates are required to present their original certificates and a copy of their bio-data for verification. The final selection is based on the candidate's performance in the assessment and their academic credentials.

Exam Pattern

The official notification does not specify a detailed written test pattern or syllabus. The selection is primarily based on the interview process, which may be supplemented by a written test if deemed necessary by the selection committee.

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Organization

The Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), located in Pune, is a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Established to spearhead research in armament technology, the laboratory focuses on the design, development, and testing of advanced weapon systems. ARDE plays a critical role in enhancing the nation's defense capabilities through innovation in ballistics, explosives, and precision engineering, serving as a hub for scientific excellence in the defense sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

The last date for the application to reach the ARDE office is 31st August 2026 (Monday). Ensure you post your application well in advance to account for postal transit time.

There are 24 total vacancies - 23 for Junior Research Fellow (across Electronics, Computer Science, Mechanical, and Aerospace disciplines) and 1 for Research Associate. Check the official notification for the specific discipline-wise breakdown.

JRF stipend is Rs. 37,000 per month, and RA stipend is Rs. 67,000 per month, along with HRA, medical facilities, and contingency grant as per rules. These benefits are provided in addition to the monthly stipend.

The maximum age is 28 years for JRF and 35 years for RA, as on the date of interview, with relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST and 3 years for OBC candidates. Always carry proof of age for verification.

No application fee is mentioned in the official notification. You do not need to pay any amount to apply for these positions.

Applications must be sent offline by post using the prescribed Bio-data proforma, addressed to The Director, ARDE, Armament Post, Pashan, Pune – 411 021, with the post name superscribed on the envelope. Ensure all documents are self-attested.

Yes, candidates with B.E./B.Tech or M.Sc. qualifications must hold a valid UGC/CSIR/NET/GATE score. M.Tech/M.E. candidates in first division at both graduate and postgraduate level are also eligible without a separate NET/GATE requirement, as specified for each discipline.

No. The notification clearly states that the offer of fellowship does not confer any right for absorption in DRDO. It is a research-based fellowship position.

Yes, shortlisted candidates called for interview/written test are eligible for reimbursement of actual train/bus fare by the shortest route, limited to sleeper class fare, as per rules. Keep your travel tickets for the claim process.

Interview/written test dates will be sent through email only to shortlisted candidates. Regularly check the email address provided in your application for updates.
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