Welcome to the comprehensive job description for the DRDO DIAT Post Doctoral Fellowship (PDF) 2026. This document provides detailed information about the recruitment process, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and other essential details to assist prospective candidates in understanding and applying for this prestigious fellowship opportunity at the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT), under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
DRDO DIAT Post Doctoral Fellowship Recruitment 2026
The Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT), an esteemed research and development institution under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, has announced the recruitment drive for the Post Doctoral Fellowship (PDF) positions for the year 2026. Interested candidates with a strong research background and relevant qualifications are encouraged to apply through the official channels.
Overview of the Recruitment
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Release Date | November 19, 2025 |
| Application Start Date | November 19, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | January 27, 2026 |
| Official Website | https://www.diat.ac.in |
| Number of Posts | Up to 20 positions (including foreign nationals) |
| Salary Range | Rs. 35,000 – Rs. 55,000 per month + Research Grant & Overheads |
| Age Limit | Maximum 35 years (relaxation as applicable) |
Vacancy Details
The recruitment pertains to multiple Post Doctoral Fellowship positions, with up to 20 posts available, including openings for foreign nationals. The fellowship is designed to support researchers conducting advanced scientific research aligned with DIAT’s strategic priorities.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Applicants must possess a Ph.D. degree within three years of the award date, or have their thesis submitted and awaited approval. Candidates who are about to submit their thesis are also eligible, provided they submit the thesis before the award expiry date.
Research Publications
Candidates should have publications in high-impact-factor SCI journals, demonstrating their active contribution to scientific research.
Nationality and Residency
- Indian nationals
- Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs)
- Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs)
- Foreign nationals (up to 20), subject to clearance
Additional Eligibility Conditions
Applicants must meet the age criteria, with a maximum age of 35 years as of January 27, 2026. Age relaxations are applicable as follows:
| Categorie | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST/Physically Disabled & Women | Up to 5 years |
| OBC Non-Creamy Layer | Up to 3 years |
Salary and Research Grants
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Stipend | Rs. 55,000/- per month for awardees with Ph.D., Rs. 35,000/- for candidates with submitted thesis |
| Research Grant | Rs. 2,00,000/- per annum |
| Overheads | Rs. 1,00,000/- per annum |
Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide
- Download the application form from the official DIAT website: https://www.diat.ac.in
- Fill out the application form meticulously, ensuring all fields are completed.
- Attach scanned copies of the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research publications
- Research proposal
- Ph.D. or provisional certificate
- Any other relevant documentation
- Seal the filled application in an envelope, titled clearly as “Application for Admission to Post Doctoral Programme in the Department/School of ______”.
- Send the sealed envelope via offline postal service to:
Joint Registrar (Academics),
Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT),
Girinagar, Pune 411025, Maharashtra, India.
Important
The application must reach DIAT on or before January 27, 2026. Late applications will not be considered.
Contact for Queries
For further assistance, email your queries to: email@example.com
Selection Process
The selection process involves multiple stages:
- Application review and shortlisting: Applications are shortlisted approximately two months prior to interviews.
- Research Proposal Presentation: Shortlisted candidates are invited to present their research proposals before a specialized committee.
- Interview: Candidates undergo a formal interview assessing their research expertise and potential.
- Foreign National Consideration: Foreign nationals may be considered in absentia and will require clearance from DIAT/DRDO HQ.
The selection cycles are held twice a year, in June and December, providing multiple opportunities for candidates to be considered.
Additional Information & Instructions
- Selected candidates must join within 2 months of the appointment offer.
- Candidates must undertake full-time research at DIAT.
- Annual progress evaluations are mandatory for fellowship continuation.
- Alumni of DIAT are not eligible under this scheme.
- All selected candidates should acknowledge DIAT support in publications, patents, and reports stemming from the research.
- Successful candidates may receive accommodation (subject to availability) and medical benefits as per DIAT rules.
- Adhere to all guidelines specified in the official notification and during the interview process.
Important Links
FAQs about DRDO DIAT Post Doctoral Fellowship 2026
1. What is the starting date to apply for this fellowship?
The application process begins on November 19, 2025.
2. What is the last date to submit the application?
The final date for submission is January 27, 2026.
3. What are the eligibility requirements?
Applicants must have a Ph.D. degree within three years of the award date or have submitted their thesis. Research publications in high-impact SCI journals are also essential.
4. What is the maximum age limit?
The maximum age limit is 35 years as of January 27, 2026. Relaxations are applicable as per the category.
We encourage eligible candidates to prepare their application carefully and submit it within the stipulated deadline to avail this prestigious research opportunity at DIAT under the DRDO umbrella. Good luck!