ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE POST OF DRDO RESEARCH ASSOCIATE (RA) & JUNIOR RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS (JRF)

Introduction

The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), an esteemed R&D authority under India’s Ministry of Defence, seeks to strengthen its talent base through the Research Associate (RA) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF) recruitment drive at the Defence Institute of Biodefence Technologies (DIBT), Mysore. This call targets motivated Indian nationals with relevant academic qualifications who aspire to engage in critical biodefence research aligned with national priorities.

The DRDO’s Defence Institute of Biodefence Technologies in Mysore invites applications for Research Associate and Junior Research Fellow spots in Food Science, Microbiology, and Polymer Technology. Positions offer competitive stipends, structured research opportunities, and career-building resources for early-career scientists.

Vacancies and Specializations

DIBT Mysore is currently accepting applications for the following positions:

- Research Associate (RA) – 1 vacancy
  - Essential Qualification: Ph.D. in Food Science & Technology, Food Processing Engineering, or related disciplines. Alternatively, an M.Tech with three years of post-master’s research and at least one SCI-indexed publication qualifies.
- Junior Research Fellows (JRF) – Total 10 vacancies distributed as:
  - Microbiology / Biotechnology / Biochemistry / Bioinformatics / Medical Genetics
    
    – 7 posts
    - Requires first-division postgraduate degree (M.Sc. or M.Tech) with valid NET/GATE.
  - Polymer Science & Technology / Polymer Science / Polymer Chemistry / Chemistry – 2 posts
    - Requires first-division B.E./B.Tech/M.Sc. with NET/GATE.
  - Food Science & Technology / Food Processing / Food Science & Nutrition – 1 post
    - Requires first-division M.Sc. or M.Tech with valid NET/GATE.

Stipend and Tenure

- Research Associate (RA): Remuneration is ₹67,000 per month + HRA. Tenure spans two years, with an upper age limit of 35 years (and applicable age relaxations).
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Stipend is ₹37,000 per month + HRA. Fellowship begins with a two-year contract, potentially extended by a third or fourth year based on performance. Upper age limit is 28 years, with relaxations for reserved categories.

This compensation structure offers a competitive platform for early-career researchers to pursue substantive projects in biodefence fields.

Application and Selection Process

- Applicants must forward their completed application forms and supporting documents to the Centre Head, DIBT, Mysore.
- Original certificates and a valid Government ID must be presented at the time of the interview,
  
  along with photocopies.
- Candidates already employed in government or PSU roles must apply through proper channels and provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
- Shortlisting may involve an objective written test, followed by an in-depth interview.
- A selection panel, valid for one year, will be formed for current and anticipated vacancies.
- The decision of the Centre Head is final regarding any disputes or discrepancies.
- Important note: No TA/DA will be provided for attending the interview or for joining.

Important Dates

- The last date for submission of applications is 30 days from the advertisement’s publication.
- Prospective candidates are advised to apply promptly, as this ensures timely review and better placement chances.

At a Glance

Why This Opportunity Matters

Impactful Research: Candidates will work on developing detection technologies for food-borne pathogens and military nutrition—areas vital to national biodefence infrastructure.
Professional Growth: The program offers a structured pathway for early researchers to cultivate expertise and credentials in applied biodefence.

Facility and Network Access: Selected candidates gain access to DRDO’s robust research ecosystem and institutional support.
Career Launchpad: Performance during the tenure can enhance prospects for future opportunities within DRDO or other government research bodies.

Conclusion

The DRDO RA and JRF advertised positions at DIBT, Mysore present a compelling package for qualified Indian researchers in food science, biotechnology, and polymer science. With competitive stipends, defined research focus, and a clear selection process, this initiative creates a strong foundation for researchers to advance in the domain of national defense R&D.

Interested candidates should complete and submit applications within 30 days of the advertisement, prepare diligently for the written and interview phases, and bring all required documentation to the interview. This opportunity combines scientific engagement with institutional excellence—an ideal launching pad for your career in defence research.

Suggested Review Timeline

- Quarterly review of stipend scales, age limits, and qualification eligibility to match policy updates.
- Annual update of research priorities and available specializations to reflect emerging needs.

At a Glance

Feature	Details
Program Name	DRDO RA & JRF Recruitment at DIBT, Mysore
Host Institute	Defence Institute of Biodefence Technologies (DIBT), DRDO, Mysore
Positions Available	RA (Food Science) – 1; JRF – 10 (in Microbiology, Polymer Science, Food Science)
Qualification	RA: Ph.D. (or M.Tech + experience); JRF: M.Sc./M.Tech or B.Tech + NET/GATE
Stipend	RA: ₹67,000 + HRA; JRF: ₹37,000 + HRA
Tenure	RA – 2 years; JRF – 2 years (with possible extension)
Age Limit	RA – 35 years; JRF – 28 years (relaxation applicable)
Application Mode	Offline submission to Centre Head, DIBT, Mysore
Selection Method	Written test (if needed) + interview; panel valid for up to one year
Application Deadline	30 days from advertisement date

Reference: Official Link

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the DRDO Research Associate (RA) post?

The DRDO Research Associate post is a two-year fellowship for Ph.D. holders in food science or related fields, offering ₹67,000 monthly plus HRA.

What is the stipend for DRDO Junior Research Fellows?

DRDO JRFs receive ₹37,000 per month plus HRA, along with research opportunities in microbiology, biotechnology, food science, and polymer science.

Who can apply for DRDO JRF vacancies?

Candidates with a first-class postgraduate degree in relevant fields and a valid NET or GATE qualification can apply for DRDO JRF positions.

What are the age limits for DRDO RA and JRF posts?

The maximum age is 35 years for RA and 28 years for JRF, with relaxations for SC, ST, OBC, and PwBD candidates.

How long is the DRDO JRF tenure?

The DRDO JRF tenure is initially two years and may extend to three or four years depending on performance and project requirements.

How can candidates apply for DRDO RA and JRF positions?

Applicants must submit their completed application forms and documents by post to the Centre Head, DIBT, Mysore, within the deadline.

What is the selection process for DRDO JRF and RA?

The selection process may include a written test followed by an interview. Shortlisted candidates must present original certificates during the interview.

Do DRDO RA and JRF applicants get travel allowances?

No, DRDO does not provide TA or DA for attending interviews or joining after selection for RA or JRF positions.

Can government employees apply for DRDO fellowships?

Yes, government employees can apply, but they must route their applications through proper channels and provide a No Objection Certificate.

What is the deadline for DRDO RA and JRF applications?

Applications must be submitted within 30 days from the date of advertisement publication. Late submissions are not accepted.