Are you passionate about artificial intelligence and seeking an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in a renowned defense research organization? The DRDO Young Scientist Laboratory Artificial Intelligence (DYSL AI) has announced its official recruitment drive for talented individuals to join as Junior Research Fellows (JRF). This comprehensive job description provides all essential details about the position, eligibility criteria, application process, and more to guide you through your application journey.
DRDO Young Scientist Laboratory Artificial Intelligence (DYSL AI) Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026
Overview of the Recruitment
DRDO’s Young Scientist Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence (DYSL AI) has initiated a recruitment drive to select motivated and qualified professionals for the position of Junior Research Fellow. The details outlined below will help prospective candidates understand the scope, requirements, and benefits associated with this opportunity.
Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | DRDO Young Scientist Laboratory – Artificial Intelligence (DYSL-AI) |
| Post Name | Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
| No. of Posts | 2 (Subject to change based on Lab requirements) |
| Salary/Stipend | Rs. 37,000/- per month + HRA (Total approximately Rs. 48,100/- with HRA) |
| Educational Qualification | Graduate/Postgraduate in relevant fields, with NET/GATE qualification |
| Age Limit | Maximum 28 years (relaxation applicable as per Govt. rules) |
| Application Last Date | 22nd January 2026 |
| Official Website | www.drdo.gov.in |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
The candidate must possess one of the following qualifications:
- Graduate degree in professional courses (B.E/B.Tech) in First Division with NET/GATE qualification.
- Postgraduate degree in professional courses (M.E/M.Tech) in First Division at both Graduate and Postgraduate levels.
- Postgraduate degree in Basic Science (M.Sc.) in First Division with NET qualification.
Desirable Skills and Knowledge
Applicants should ideally demonstrate:
- Strong fundamentals in problem solving, algorithm design, and complexity analysis.
- Proficiency in at least one major programming language such as Python, Java, C++, or similar.
- Knowledge of classical AI algorithms, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning techniques.
- Experience with relevant software libraries like PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras, TensorRT, or PyTorchMobile.
- Specialized knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
- Speech and Language Technology, including speech recognition and NLP (Natural Language Processing)/Machine Translation.
- 3D Vision, SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), and ROS (Robot Operating System).
- Computer Vision, including Generative Models.
- Reinforcement Learning.
Age Limit and Relaxation
The maximum age limit for applicants is 28 years as of the interview date. Age relaxation is applicable as per government rules:
- 5 years for SC/ST candidates.
- 3 years for OBC candidates.
Important Dates and Application Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 1 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 22 January 2026 |
| Expected Interview Date | To Be Announced |
Selection Process
The selection of candidates will be based on the following criteria:
Step 1: Shortlisting
Candidates will be shortlisted based on their GATE score or percentage of marks obtained in the qualifying degree. The performance in these assessments will determine eligibility for the interview stage.
Step 2: Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview or an online interview via Video Conferencing, as decided by the Director of DYSL-AI. The interview will evaluate technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and research aptitude.
Remarks on Appointment and Tenure
The appointment as Junior Research Fellow is temporary and initially lasts for two years. Based on satisfactory performance, the candidate may be promoted to Senior Research Fellow (SRF) for an additional two or three years, complying with DRDO rules and annual performance reviews.
This fellowship does not confer any right for permanent absorption into DRDO or other government services.
Individuals who have previously been awarded a JRF position in any DRDO Lab/Center are ineligible to reapply.
Fellows may also register for part-time Ph.D. programs with universities, subject to approval from DYSL-AI.
Application Process
Interested candidates should prepare and submit their application as per the instructions below:
Documents Required
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Form (Annexure-1) | Available for download from www.drdo.gov.in |
| NoC & Other Testimonials (for serving candidates) | Annexure-II & III, downloadable from the official website |
| Educational Certificates | Self-attested copies of all relevant degree certificates |
| Date of Birth Proof | Self-attested copy of DOB certificate |
| Caste Certificate | Self-attested copy (if applicable) |
| CV | Detailed and updated CV of the candidate |
Submission Details
The completed application along with the required documents must be sent via post to:
The Director, DRDO Young Scientist Lab-Artificial Intelligence,Dr. Raja Ramanna Complex,
Raj Bhavan Circle, High Grounds,
Bengaluru-560001
Alternatively, scanned copies of all documents can be emailed to:
When mailing or emailing, clearly write in bold on the envelope or subject line: Application for JRF Recruitment.
Important Links
Additional Information and Guidelines
General Rules & Notes
- The fellowship is purely temporary and may be terminated with a one-month prior notice. Fellows may resign by giving a one-month notice.
- Applicants must possess a degree or provisional degree certificate at the time of application.
- No TA/DA will be paid for attending interviews or joining if selected.
- Candidates should make their own arrangements for stay and transportation in Bangalore.
- Application review and selection are subject to modifications or cancellations by DYSL-AI at any time.
- The fellowship does not carry any entitlement for government employment or permanent absorption.
Contact & Support
For further assistance or queries related to the recruitment process, candidates can reach out via email or refer to the official website for updates.
We wish all applicants the best of luck in their application process and encourage eligible candidates to seize this opportunity to contribute to innovative AI research in a prestigious research organization!