This detailed job description provides comprehensive information about the Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL DRDO) recruitment for the position of Research Associate (RA) in 2025. If you are interested in pursuing a career with NPOL DRDO and meet the eligibility criteria, please review the following details carefully and follow the application instructions outlined below.
NPOL DRDO Research Associate (RA) Recruitment 2025: Complete Job Overview
Organization Overview
The Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), a premier research institute under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is dedicated to advanced research in ocean sciences, including Physical and Chemical Oceanography. NPOL offers challenging career opportunities for qualified scientists and researchers interested in contributing to national defense, maritime research, and oceanographic studies.
Position Summary
| Position | Research Associate (RA) |
|---|---|
| Total Posts | 1 |
| Monthly Salary | Rs. 54,000/- + House Rent Allowance |
| Application Last Date | 20 December 2025 |
| Official Website | www.drdo.gov.in |
Key Highlights
- Number of Vacancies: 1
- Essential Educational Qualifications: Ph.D. in Ocean Sciences or related fields OR M.Tech with relevant research experience
- Age Limit: Maximum 35 years
- Application Mode: Offline
- Application Deadline: December 20, 2025
Detailed Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualifications
Essential Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Ocean Sciences or relevant allied subjects, preferably with experience in Physical or Chemical Oceanography.
- OR M.Tech (Ocean Technology) with at least 3 years of post-qualification research or teaching experience in the same field.
- Must have published at least one research paper in a Science Citation Indexed (SCI) journal.
Age Limit and Relaxation
The maximum age limit for applicants is 35 years as of December 20, 2025. Age relaxation applicable as per government norms:
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| Scheduled Castes (SC) | As per Government Norms |
| Scheduled Tribes (ST) | As per Government Norms |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC) | As per Government Norms |
Selection Process
The selection process involves the following steps:
- Screening of Applications: A Screening Committee will evaluate all applications based on eligibility and qualifications.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview at NPOL, Kochi.
- Documentation: Candidates must present original certificates/testimonials, community certificates, and other relevant documents during the interview.
Application Process & Instructions
How to Apply
- Download the official application form from the DRDO website.
- Fill out the application form in the prescribed format, ensuring all details are accurate.
- Self-attest copies of supporting documents, including educational certificates, age proof, community certificates (if applicable), and research publications, should be prepared.
- Send the completed hard copy of the signed application form along with self-attested copies of all supporting documents by post to the following address:
Postal Address:
The Director,
Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory,
Thrikkakara P.O., Kochi – 682 021
Envelope Supercription: “Application for RA”
Important Tips
- Incomplete applications or those received after the deadline will be rejected.
- Candidates working in government or public sector organizations must apply through proper channels.
- The Director, NPOL reserves the right to not select any candidate if suitable ones are not found.
- The offer of fellowship does not guarantee absorption in DRDO or NPOL.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the salary for the Research Associate position at NPOL?
The monthly stipend is Rs. 54,000 plus House Rent Allowance as applicable.
2. What is the last date to apply for this position?
The last date for application submission is December 20, 2025.
3. What are the eligibility criteria for applicants?
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Ocean Sciences or related fields, or an M.Tech in Ocean Technology with three years of research or teaching experience and at least one SCI journal publication.
4. What is the maximum age limit for candidates?
The maximum age limit is 35 years as of December 20, 2025. Age relaxations are applicable as per government norms for reserved categories.
5. How many vacancies are available?
There is 1 vacancy available for the Research Associate position.
For further assistance, please refer to the official notification and follow the application guidelines carefully. This is an excellent opportunity for researchers seeking to contribute to oceanographic research under a prestigious government organization.