Job Description
Overview
The Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), a premier research facility under the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, is inviting applications for the position of Junior Research Fellow (JRF). This recruitment drive aims to fill research roles across seven distinct technical and scientific disciplines to support ongoing naval defense projects. The laboratory, situated in Kochi, Kerala, offers a dynamic environment for young researchers to contribute to cutting-edge maritime technology and oceanographic studies.
Key Responsibilities
- Conducting advanced research and development activities in assigned scientific or engineering disciplines.
- Assisting senior scientists in the design, simulation, and testing of naval defense systems.
- Analyzing experimental data and preparing technical reports for project documentation.
- Participating in laboratory trials and field experiments related to oceanographic and physical research.
- Maintaining laboratory equipment and ensuring compliance with safety and research protocols.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to achieve project milestones within specified timelines.
Why Apply
Joining NPOL provides a unique opportunity to work on high-impact national defense projects under the guidance of experienced scientists. Fellows receive a competitive monthly stipend along with HRA, fostering a stable environment for professional development and research excellence.
Important Dates
- Walk-in Interview: 10 October 2026
Quick Facts
- Vacancy: 4 confirmed (Mechanical), others anticipated
- Pay: Rs. 37,000 + HRA
- Location: Kochi, Kerala
- Category: Defence Research
DRDO NPOL Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026 – Walk in Overview
Exam Date
10 Oct 2026
Salary
37000
Vacancies
4
Eligibility
BE/B.Tech/ME/M.Tech/PG Degree
Vacancy Details
- Mechanical Engineering: 4
- Computer Science & Engineering: Anticipated
- Chemical/Rubber/Polymer/Nanotech/Materials Science: Anticipated
- Opto Electronics: Anticipated
- Electrical/Electronics/Instrumentation: Anticipated
- Physics: Anticipated
- Oceanography/Ocean Tech/Meteorology: Anticipated
How to Apply
- Prepare a comprehensive one-page bio-data detailing academic and professional qualifications.
- Attend the walk-in interview on 10 October 2026 at 09:30 hrs.
- Report to the venue: Bhavan's Varuna Vidyalaya, NPOL Campus, Thrikkakara P.O., Kochi, Kerala – 682021.
- Bring original certificates, mark sheets, GATE/NET scorecards, and community certificates for verification.
- Submit a set of self-attested photocopies of all testimonials and a recent passport-size photograph.
- Carry a valid government-issued photo ID proof such as an Aadhaar card or Voter ID.
- Retain a copy of your bio-data and documents for your personal records.
Cutoff Marks
Not applicable.
Application Fee
There is no application fee for this recruitment.
Age Limit
Upper age limit is 28 years as on 10 October 2026. Relaxation applies to SC/ST/OBC categories as per government norms.
Selection Process
The selection process is conducted exclusively through a walk-in interview. Candidates are evaluated based on their academic credentials, technical knowledge, and performance during the interview session. A panel of suitable candidates is prepared, which remains valid for one year to fill current and future vacancies. Please note that being empanelled does not guarantee an offer of fellowship, as appointments depend on actual project requirements.
Exam Pattern
No written examination is conducted for this recruitment. Selection is based on document verification and a personal interview.
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Organization
Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL DRDO) invites applications for 35 Paid Intern posts. The internship is for final year UG/PG students in relevant engineering and science disciplines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Selection is conducted entirely through a walk-in interview. Candidates must appear at the designated venue with their original documents and certificates for verification. A panel is formed based on performance, which remains valid for one year for future vacancies.
No, there is no application fee required for the NPOL JRF recruitment. Candidates can appear for the walk-in interview without any payment.
Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 37,000, along with House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per the rules of the organization.
The upper age limit is 28 years as of the date of the walk-in interview. Age relaxation is applicable for SC, ST, and OBC candidates as per government norms.
No, there is no online application portal. Interested candidates must attend the walk-in interview in person at the NPOL campus in Kochi on the scheduled date.
Candidates need a first-division BE/B.Tech with a valid GATE score, or an ME/M.Tech. For science subjects, a first-division PG degree with NET/GATE is required. Please refer to the official notification for discipline-specific details.
The interview is scheduled for 10 October 2026 at 09:30 hrs at Bhavan's Varuna Vidyalaya, NPOL Campus, Thrikkakara P.O., Kochi, Kerala.
There are 4 confirmed vacancies for Mechanical Engineering. Vacancies for other disciplines like Computer Science, Physics, and Oceanography are listed as 'Anticipated' and will be filled based on requirements.
