Detailed Job Description for NPOL DRDO Research Associate Recruitment 2025
The Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has announced a recruitment drive to fill a vacant Research Associate (RA) position. This comprehensive job description provides all essential information for prospective candidates interested in applying for this prestigious role, including eligibility criteria, application process, salary details, and important deadlines.
Overview of the NPOL DRDO Research Associate Position
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Organization | Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), DRDO |
| Post Name | Research Associate (RA) |
| Number of Vacancies | 1 |
| Salary | Rs. 54,000 per month plus House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per rules |
| Qualification | PhD in Ocean Science or allied disciplines OR M.Tech in Ocean Technology with 3 years of post-qualification research/teaching experience and 1 SCI journal publication |
| Age Limit | Maximum 35 years (relaxation applicable as per Government norms for SC/ST/OBC candidates) |
| Start Date to Apply | 20 November 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 days from the advertisement publication date (19 December 2025) |
| Official Website | www.drdo.gov.in |
Eligibility Criteria and Educational Qualifications
Educational Qualifications
Candidates must possess one of the following qualifications from recognized universities or institutions:
- PhD in Ocean Science or allied subjects such as Marine Biology, Marine Chemistry, Oceanography, or related fields.
- M.Tech in Ocean Technology with a minimum of 3 years research/teaching experience post-qualification and at least 1 SCI journal publication.
Work Experience
Post-qualification research or teaching experience relevant to ocean technology or ocean sciences is essential for M.Tech applicants.
Additional Conditions
- Applicants must have qualifications recognized by appropriate authorities.
- For candidates currently employed in Government/Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) or autonomous bodies, application must be submitted through proper channels.
Age Limit and Relaxation
The maximum age limit to apply for this role is 35 years as of the closing date of application submission. Age relaxation is applicable as per the Government of India norms for candidates belonging to SC, ST, and OBC categories.
Application Process and Instructions
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
- Download the prescribed application form from the official DRDO website at www.drdo.gov.in.
- Fill out the application form carefully with accurate information.
- Attach self-attested copies of the following documents:
- Educational certificates (mark sheets, degree certificates)
- Research experience certificates
- Publication proof (if any)
- Proof of age (Birth certificate or class 10 certificate)
- Category certificates (if applicable)
- Send the completely filled and signed application form along with all attachments in a sealed envelope.
- Address the envelope to:
The Director, Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory,
Thrikkakara P.O., Kochi – 682021, Kerala - Superscribe the envelope with “Application for RA”.
- Post the application so that it reaches before the last date (19 December 2025).
Important Notes
- Application submission must be offline by postal mail.
- Incomplete or improperly filled applications are liable to be rejected.
- No electronic or online applications are accepted for this recruitment.
- Candidates are advised to keep copies of their application and documents for future reference.
Selection Process
The selection process consists of the following stages:
Screening and Shortlisting
A screening committee will evaluate all received applications and shortlist eligible candidates based on academic qualifications, experience, and publications.
Personal Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview at NPOL, Kochi. Candidates must carry original certificates and documents for verification during the interview.
Final Selection
The final decision will be based on the overall performance in the interview and verification of original documents. The decision of the Director of NPOL will be final.
Remuneration and Salary Details
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Salary | Rs. 54,000 |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | As per prevailing rules |
| Total Compensation | Approximate Rs. 54,000 + HRA per month |
Important Dates and Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | 20 November 2025 |
| Application Start Date | 20 November 2025 |
| Application Last Date | 30 days from notification (19 December 2025) |
Additional Resources and Links
- Official Notification: Download PDF
- Official Website: www.drdo.gov.in
- Join Telegram Channel for Updates: [Insert Link]
- Join WhatsApp Channel for Alerts: [Insert Link]
- Sarkari Result Mobile App: [Insert Link]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the starting date for applying?
The application process begins on 20 November 2025.
2. What is the last date for submitting applications?
The last date is 30 days from the notification release date, i.e., 19 December 2025.
3. What educational qualifications are required?
Applicants must have a PhD in Ocean Science or allied disciplines, or M.Tech in Ocean Technology with relevant research experience.
4. What is the maximum age limit?
The age limit is 35 years, with relaxations as per government rules for reserved categories.
5. How many vacancies are available?
There is only 1 vacancy available for the Research Associate position.
For further details, candidates should refer to the official notification and ensure their applications are complete and submitted within the stipulated timeline.