The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced a new recruitment drive for experienced professionals looking to build a career in India's defence research sector. Through its Recruitment and Assessment Centre (RAC), DRDO is inviting applications for 33 Scientist vacancies across multiple grades, including Scientist C, Scientist D, and Scientist E.
The recruitment offers a prestigious opportunity for qualified engineers and technology professionals to contribute to advanced defence technologies, indigenous innovation, and national security projects. Interested candidates can submit their applications online through the official RAC portal before the closing date.
DRDO Announces 33 Scientist Vacancies
According to the official notification, DRDO is seeking highly skilled and experienced candidates for various scientific positions across its research establishments and laboratories.
The selected candidates will be involved in cutting-edge defence research programs and technological development initiatives aimed at strengthening India's self-reliance in strategic and defence sectors.
The online application process is currently open, and the last date to apply is June 19, 2026.
Educational Qualification Requirements
Candidates applying for DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 must meet the prescribed academic criteria.
Essential Qualification
Applicants should possess:
-
A Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Technology from a recognized university or institution.
-
Minimum 60% marks in the qualifying degree.
Candidates are advised to carefully verify the discipline-specific requirements mentioned in the detailed recruitment notification before applying.
Age Limit Criteria
The upper age limit varies according to the post applied for.
Scientist C
-
Maximum age: 35 years
Scientist D
-
Maximum age: 45 years
Scientist E
-
Maximum age: 45 years
Age relaxation for reserved categories will be applicable as per government regulations.
Candidates seeking detailed information regarding age relaxations and post-specific eligibility requirements should refer to the official recruitment advertisement available on the RAC portal.
Nationality Requirement
Applicants must be citizens of India.
Only Indian nationals fulfilling all eligibility conditions will be considered for the recruitment process.
Application Fee Details
The application fee differs based on the category of the applicant.
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General (Male) | ₹100 |
| OBC (Male) | ₹100 |
| EWS (Male) | ₹100 |
| SC | No Fee |
| ST | No Fee |
| PwBD | No Fee |
| Female Candidates | No Fee |
The fee must be paid through online payment modes only.
Applicants should note that the fee is:
-
Non-refundable
-
Non-transferable
Selection Process
The selection procedure is designed to identify candidates with strong technical expertise and professional experience.
Shortlisting of Candidates
Applicants will initially be shortlisted based on the information provided in their online application forms.
Candidates must ensure that all details submitted are accurate and supported by valid documents.
Personal Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to appear before an Independent Selection Board at RAC, Delhi.
The interview will be conducted in offline mode on a scheduled date communicated through official channels.
Merit-Based Selection
The final selection will be based entirely on performance in the personal interview.
Key points include:
-
Interview carries 100 marks.
-
Candidates must secure a minimum of 75 marks out of 100 to be considered for selection.
-
Final merit will be prepared based on interview performance.
Interview schedules and related updates will be published on the RAC website.
Important Instructions for Applicants
DRDO has issued several important guidelines for candidates participating in the recruitment process.
Provide Accurate Information
Any incorrect, misleading, or false information found during document verification or at any stage of recruitment may result in:
-
Cancellation of candidature
-
Permanent disqualification
-
Debarment from future RAC recruitment processes
Experience Verification
Candidates claiming professional experience must upload:
-
Valid experience certificates
-
Employment records
-
Supporting salary proofs where required
The duration and nature of experience should be clearly verifiable from the uploaded documents.
Ex-Servicemen Age Relaxation
Candidates seeking age relaxation under the Ex-Servicemen category must submit the required declaration in the prescribed format available through the RAC portal.
Declaration of Relatives in DRDO
Applicants must disclose details of any relatives currently employed in DRDO, if applicable.
No Canvassing Allowed
DRDO has clearly stated that any attempt to influence the recruitment process through canvassing or external recommendations may lead to immediate disqualification.
Why This Recruitment Is Significant
Working as a scientist at DRDO provides professionals with the opportunity to contribute to some of India's most advanced research and development projects.
Selected candidates may work in areas such as:
-
Defence systems development
-
Aerospace technologies
-
Missile systems
-
Electronics and communication technologies
-
Artificial intelligence and advanced computing
-
Strategic defence research
These roles offer both professional growth and the chance to contribute directly to national security initiatives.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can submit their applications online through the RAC recruitment portal by following these steps:
-
Visit the official RAC website.
-
Open the Scientist Recruitment 2026 notification.
-
Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
-
Complete the online application form.
-
Upload the required documents.
-
Pay the application fee, if applicable.
-
Review all details carefully.
-
Submit the application and save a copy for future reference.
Final Opportunity for Experienced Professionals
The DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 drive presents an excellent opportunity for qualified engineering and technology professionals seeking a career in defence research and innovation. With 33 vacancies available across Scientist C, D, and E grades, candidates with the required qualifications and experience should consider applying before the June 19 deadline.
As competition for DRDO positions remains highly competitive, applicants are encouraged to submit accurate applications, prepare thoroughly for the interview stage, and complete the process well before the closing date.
