DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 for 35 Technical Posts, Notification OUT
DRDO Scientist B, Scientist C & Scientist D Recruitment 2026: 35 Technical Posts
Defence Research and Development Organisation — Recruitment & Assessment Centre (RAC), Lucknow — Advt. No. 157
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its Recruitment and Assessment Centre (RAC) Lucknow, has released the official recruitment notification for 35 Scientist posts at the levels of Scientist B, Scientist C, and Scientist D in the DRDS (Defence Research & Development Service) Cadre. Eligible candidates with engineering degrees or science post-graduation in relevant disciplines can apply online through the RAC website before 19 June 2026.
The recruitment includes 31 regular posts and 4 encadred posts across Electronics & Communication Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Chemical Engineering, and various other disciplines. Selection is based on shortlisting, preliminary interview (if required), and final personal interview with a minimum qualifying score of 75% (7.5/10). Selected candidates will be placed at DRDO establishments across India with basic pay ranging from ₹56,100 to ₹78,800 per month plus DA, HRA, TA, and other Central Government allowances.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Notification Date | Employment News |
| Advertisement Number | Advt. No. 157 |
| Authority | Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) — Recruitment & Assessment Centre (RAC), Lucknow, Ministry of Defence, Govt. of India |
| Post Name | Scientist B, Scientist C, Scientist D (DRDS Cadre — Regular & Encadred Posts) |
| Total Vacancies | 35 (31 Regular + 4 Encadred) |
| Application Start Date | |
| Last Date for Application | (04:00 PM IST) |
| Application Mode | Online at rac.gov.in |
| Selection Process | Screening / Shortlisting → Preliminary Online Interview (if required) → Final Personal Interview → Merit List |
| Age Limit | Scientist B & C: 35 Years | Scientist D: 45 Years |
| Pay Scale | Level 10 to Level 12 CPC — ₹56,100 to ₹78,800 basic pay per month |
| Job Location | DRDO Establishments across India (PAN India) |
| Employment Type | Regular (Permanent) — Central Government Service |
DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 — Important Dates & Application Fee
Online Application from 31 May 2026 — Last Date 19 June 2026 — Fee ₹100 for General/OBC/EWS
The online application window for DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 opens on 31 May 2026 and closes on 19 June 2026 at 04:00 PM IST. The application fee for General, OBC, and EWS male candidates is ₹100. SC, ST, Divyang, and Women candidates are exempted from payment.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Publication | Employment News |
| Online Application Start Date | |
| Last Date for Application | (04:00 PM IST) |
| Age Calculation Date | Closing date of application |
Tip: Submit the application well before 19 June 2026 at 04:00 PM to avoid last-minute server congestion. Keep scanned copies of all documents ready before starting the online application.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS (Male) | ₹100 |
| SC / ST / Divyang / Women (All Categories) | Nil |
Important: Fee must be paid online through the RAC website payment gateway. The fee is non-refundable. Candidates are advised to keep the payment receipt for future reference.
DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 — Vacancy Details and Eligibility
35 Posts — Scientist B, Scientist C, Scientist D — Advt. No. 157 — DRDS Cadre
DRDO invites applications for 35 Scientist posts in the DRDS Cadre, comprising 31 regular posts and 4 encadred posts. Vacancies are distributed across multiple engineering and science disciplines at three levels.
Regular Posts — Scientist D (Level 12 — Basic Pay ₹78,800) — 7 Posts
| Discipline | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Electronics & Communication Engineering | 1 |
| Computer Science Engineering | 1 |
| Aeronautical / Aerospace Engineering | 1 |
| Mechanical Engineering | 1 |
| Physics / Photonics / Optics | 1 |
| Chemical Engineering | 2 |
| Total | 7 |
Regular Posts — Scientist C (Level 11 — Basic Pay ₹67,700) — 17 Posts
| Discipline | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Electronics & Communication Engineering | 6 |
| Computer Science Engineering | 3 |
| Oceanography / Physical Oceanography | 1 |
| Mathematics / Applied Mathematics | 1 |
| Chemical Engineering | 1 |
| Physiology | 1 |
| Electrical Engineering | 1 |
| Pharmacology | 1 |
| Remote Sensing / GIS / Geomatics | 1 |
| Electronics Engineering | 1 |
| Total | 17 |
Regular Posts — Scientist B (Level 10 — Basic Pay ₹56,100) — 7 Posts
| Discipline | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Mechanical / Production / Aeronautical Engineering | 1 |
| Mechanical / Production / Industrial Engineering | 1 |
| Electronics & Telecommunication / ECE / Electrical Communication | 1 |
| Physics / Radiation Physics | 1 |
| Mechanical Engineering | 1 |
| Physics | 2 |
| Total | 7 |
Encadred Posts — 4 Posts
| Post | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Scientist B (Encadred) | 1 |
| Scientist C (Encadred) | 3 |
| Total | 4 |
Educational Qualification Summary
| Post Level | Qualification Requirement |
|---|---|
| Scientist B | First Division Bachelor's Degree in Engineering / Technology or First Division Master's Degree in relevant science discipline from a recognised university |
| Scientist C | First Division Bachelor's/Master's/Doctorate in relevant discipline with minimum 3–7 years of post-qualification experience |
| Scientist D | First Division Bachelor's/Master's/Doctorate in relevant discipline with minimum 7–11 years of post-qualification experience |
Note: Qualification and experience requirements vary heavily by discipline. Candidates must refer to the official notification for discipline-specific eligibility criteria. Foreign language knowledge (German/French/Russian/Japanese/Chinese) is considered desirable for many posts.
Eligibility Conditions
| Nationality | Indian Nationals only |
| Engagement Type | Regular (Permanent) — Central Government Service in DRDS Cadre |
| Age Relaxation | Reservation relaxation applicable as per Government of India Rules |
| Experience Requirement | Scientist B: Fresher / Entry Level | Scientist C: 3–7 Years | Scientist D: 7–11 Years |
DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 — Selection Process and Age Limit
No Written Examination — Shortlisting & Interview — Minimum 75% Qualifying Marks in Final Interview
There is no written examination for this recruitment. Selection is based on screening/shortlisting of applications, a preliminary online interview (if required based on the number of applicants), and a final personal interview. The minimum qualifying marks in the final interview are 75% (7.5/10). A maximum of 12 candidates per vacancy (or 24 for 2 or more posts in a discipline) are called for the preliminary interview stage.
Selection Stages
| Stage | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Screening / Shortlisting | Qualifying | Evaluation of applications based on academic record, experience, and prescribed criteria |
| 2. Preliminary Online Interview | Qualifying (if required) | Online interview to shortlist candidates for the final interview stage |
| 3. Final Personal Interview | Final | In-depth technical and personal interview — minimum qualifying 75% (7.5/10) |
Note: Preliminary interview may be conducted if the number of applicants exceeds the callable limit. Up to 12 candidates per single vacancy and up to 24 candidates for 2 or more vacancies in a discipline are called.
Post-wise Age Limit
| Post | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| Scientist B | 35 Years |
| Scientist C | 35 Years |
| Scientist D | 45 Years |
Age Relaxation
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| Divyang / PwBD | Up to 10 Years |
| Government Servants | Up to 5 Years (conditions apply) |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per Government of India rules |
| SC/ST (where reservation applicable) | As per Government of India rules |
Note: Age is calculated as on the closing date of the application. Age relaxation is applicable only for candidates who produce valid category certificates at the time of document verification.
DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 — Remuneration and Pay Structure
CPC Pay Level 10 to 12 — Basic Pay ₹56,100 to ₹78,800 — Central Government Scientist Posts
Selected candidates will be appointed as regular scientists in the DRDS Cadre of DRDO, a premier research organisation under the Ministry of Defence. Salary and allowances are as per the Central Pay Commission (CPC) pay matrix with Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, Transport Allowance, and other benefits as per Central Government norms applicable to Group A scientific posts.
Post-wise Pay Level
| Post | CPC Level | Basic Pay (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Scientist B | Level 10 | ₹56,100 |
| Scientist C | Level 11 | ₹67,700 |
| Scientist D | Level 12 | ₹78,800 |
Key Conditions
| Employment Type | Regular — Permanent Central Government Scientist positions |
| Organisation | DRDO — Ministry of Defence, Government of India |
| Allowances | DA, HRA, TA as per Central Government norms |
| Other Benefits | Medical, LTC, NPS, and other Central Government benefits |
| Job Location | Any DRDO establishment across India (PAN India) |
DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 — Job Profile and Salary Structure
35 Regular & Encadred Scientist Posts — Level 10 to 12 with Central Government Allowances
Scientists in DRDO are responsible for research, design, development, testing, and evaluation of defence technologies and systems. The roles involve working on cutting-edge projects in areas such as electronics, aerospace, armaments, combat engineering, and life sciences at various DRDO establishments across the country.
Job Profile & Responsibilities
| Area | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Research & Development | Design, development, and testing of defence technologies and systems |
| Project Management | Managing and executing R&D projects within timelines and budget |
| Technical Analysis | Analysing technical requirements, preparing specifications, and conducting evaluations |
| Collaboration | Working with academic institutions, industry partners, and other defence organisations |
| Mentoring | Guiding junior scientists, research fellows, and project staff |
Salary Details
| Pay Type | CPC Pay Matrix (7th CPC) |
| Scientist B | Level 10 — ₹56,100 per month basic pay |
| Scientist C | Level 11 — ₹67,700 per month basic pay |
| Scientist D | Level 12 — ₹78,800 per month basic pay |
| Allowances | DA, HRA, TA as per Central Government norms applicable to Group A scientific posts |
Key Benefits
- Dearness Allowance (DA) as per Central Government revision
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) based on city classification
- Transport Allowance (TA) as per Government norms
- National Pension System (NPS) contributions
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC) benefits
- Medical benefits for self and dependents
- Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) coverage
- Professional development and training opportunities
DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 — Syllabus and How to Apply
No Written Examination — Evaluation Based on Academic Record, Experience & Interview — Apply Online at rac.gov.in
There is no written examination for this recruitment. Candidates are evaluated based on academic record, relevant research/industry experience, specialised domain expertise, and interview performance. A preliminary online interview may be conducted for shortlisting if the number of applicants exceeds the callable limit.
Evaluation Areas
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Record | First Division in Bachelor's/Master's/Doctorate as applicable for the discipline |
| Relevant Experience | Post-qualification experience in relevant R&D, industry, or academic roles |
| Research Output | Research papers, patents, thesis, and technical publications |
| Domain Expertise | Specialised knowledge in the relevant discipline — AI/ML, signal processing, propulsion, radar, GIS, radiation safety, etc. |
| Foreign Language | Knowledge of German / French / Russian / Japanese / Chinese considered desirable for many posts |
| Interview Performance | Technical knowledge, problem-solving ability, and communication skills — minimum qualifying 75% (7.5/10) |
Application Steps
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the official RAC website at rac.gov.in |
| 2 | Register with a valid email ID and phone number |
| 3 | Log in and fill the online application form with personal, educational, and experience details |
| 4 | Upload required documents — photograph, signature, educational certificates, experience certificates, category certificates, CGPA conversion proof, research papers, patents, thesis, fellowship certificates (if applicable) |
| 5 | Pay the application fee online through the payment gateway (if applicable) |
| 6 | Submit the application and download the acknowledgement for future reference |
Important Instructions
- Check discipline-specific eligibility criteria carefully before applying
- Upload clear scanned copies of all required documents in the specified format
- Provide CGPA conversion proof if the degree is in a grading system
- Applications with wrong information, incomplete data, or illegible documents will be rejected
- Multiple applications for the same post will lead to rejection
- Experience not supported by proper certificates will not be considered
- Candidates already employed in government service must upload NOC
DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 — Selection Mode and Documents Required
Screening → Preliminary Interview (if needed) → Final Interview → Merit List → Document Verification
Selection involves screening of applications, preliminary online interview (if required based on applicant count), and a final personal interview. The minimum qualifying marks in the final interview are 75% (7.5/10). Shortlisted candidates must produce original documents for verification at the time of the final interview.
Selection Stages
| Stage | Nature |
|---|---|
| Screening / Shortlisting | Evaluation of applications based on academic qualifications, experience, and prescribed criteria |
| Preliminary Online Interview | Conducted if applicants exceed the callable limit — up to 12 candidates per single vacancy / 24 for 2+ vacancies |
| Final Personal Interview | In-depth technical and personal assessment — minimum qualifying 75% (7.5/10) |
| Merit List | Based on interview performance, subject to minimum qualifying marks |
| Document Verification | Verification of original certificates and documents before final appointment |
Documents Required for Upload
| Identity & Personal Documents | |
| Passport Photograph | Recent passport-size colour photograph |
| Signature | Scanned signature in black ink on white paper |
| Date of Birth Proof | Birth certificate or Class 10 mark sheet / certificate |
| Educational Documents | |
| Degree Certificates | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate certificates as applicable |
| Mark Sheets | Semester / year-wise mark sheets for all qualifications |
| CGPA Conversion Proof | If degree is in CGPA/grading system, conversion formula from university |
| Fellowship Certificates | If applicable for research fellowships held |
| Research Papers / Patents / Thesis | Proof of research output where applicable |
| Experience & Category Documents | |
| Experience Certificates | Certificates from all previous employers specifying role and duration |
| Caste / Category Certificate | SC / ST / OBC-NCL / EWS certificate as applicable |
| Disability Certificate | For Divyang / PwBD candidates from competent medical authority |
| Ex-Serviceman Certificate | For ex-servicemen candidates |
| NOC (if employed) | No Objection Certificate from current employer for government servants |
Disqualification Criteria
| Grounds for Disqualification | |
| Incomplete Application | Forms missing required fields or documents will be rejected |
| Wrong Information | Incorrect or misleading information in the application |
| Illegible Documents | Uploaded documents are unclear or unreadable |
| Multiple Applications | Submitting more than one application for the same post |
| Experience Without Proof | Experience claims not supported by proper certificates |
| False Claims / Misrepresentation | Submission of forged certificates or false information |
Important Instructions
- Upload clear, legible scanned copies of all documents in the prescribed format and size
- Original documents must be produced at the time of final interview for verification
- Government employees must upload NOC from the current employer
- Category certificates must be in the format prescribed by the Government of India
- OBC-NCL candidates must submit a valid Non-Creamy Layer certificate
- Candidature may be cancelled at any stage if found ineligible or if false information is detected
DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 — Important Links and Follow Us
Official Recruitment Links
| Link | Status | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Active | Download PDF |
| RAC Official Website | Active | Visit Website |
| Apply Online | Active | Apply Here |
| Contact Phone | Active | 011-23830578 / 011-23889529 |
| Contact Email | Active | Send Email |
Join Our Job Community
| Platform | Action |
|---|---|
| Join Channel | |
| Telegram | Join Channel |
| Follow Page | |
| YouTube | Subscribe Channel |
DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its Recruitment & Assessment Centre (RAC) Lucknow, has released Advt. No. 157 for 35 Scientist posts (Scientist B, Scientist C, Scientist D) in the DRDS Cadre for engineering and science disciplines across India.
Q2. How many vacancies are available in DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026?
A total of 35 vacancies are available — Scientist D (7 regular), Scientist C (17 regular), Scientist B (7 regular), and encadred posts (4). Disciplines include ECE, CSE, Mechanical, Aeronautical, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Mathematics, and more.
Q3. What is the last date to apply for DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 19 June 2026 at 04:00 PM IST. Applications must be submitted online through the RAC website at rac.gov.in.
Q4. Is there an application fee for DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Yes, the application fee is ₹100 for General, OBC, and EWS male candidates. SC, ST, Divyang, and Women candidates (all categories) are exempted from payment. Fee is payable online through the RAC payment gateway.
Q5. What is the selection process for DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Selection is based on screening/shortlisting of applications, a preliminary online interview (if required), and a final personal interview. The minimum qualifying marks in the final interview are 75% (7.5/10). No written examination is conducted.
Q6. What is the age limit for DRDO Scientist posts?
The maximum age limit is 35 years for Scientist B and Scientist C, and 45 years for Scientist D. Age relaxation of up to 10 years for Divyang/PwBD, up to 5 years for Government servants, and relaxation for ex-servicemen as per Government rules is applicable.
Q7. What qualifications are needed for DRDO Scientist posts?
Scientist B requires First Division Bachelor's in Engineering or Master's in a relevant science discipline. Scientist C and D require higher qualifications with 3–7 years and 7–11 years of relevant experience respectively. Discipline-specific qualifications vary — see the official notification for details.
Q8. How to apply for DRDO Scientist positions 2026?
Visit rac.gov.in, register with a valid email ID, fill the online application form with educational and experience details, upload required documents including research papers/patents if applicable, pay the fee (if applicable), and submit before 19 June 2026.
Q9. Where is the job location for DRDO Scientist posts?
Selected candidates will be posted at DRDO establishments across India (PAN India). The specific location depends on project requirements and the candidate's assigned discipline. DRDO has laboratories and establishments in multiple cities across the country.
Q10. What is the salary for DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Scientist B receives Level 10 basic pay of ₹56,100 per month, Scientist C receives Level 11 basic pay of ₹67,700, and Scientist D receives Level 12 basic pay of ₹78,800, plus DA, HRA, TA, NPS, and other Central Government benefits applicable to Group A scientific posts.
Q11. What documents are required for DRDO Scientist application?
Candidates must upload a photograph, signature, DOB proof, degree certificates, mark sheets, CGPA conversion proof, experience certificates, research papers/patents/thesis (if applicable), fellowship certificates, caste/category certificate, disability certificate (if applicable), ex-serviceman certificate (if applicable), and NOC (if employed in government service).
Q12. What is the official website for DRDO Scientist Recruitment 2026?
The official recruitment portal is rac.gov.in (Recruitment & Assessment Centre). The DRDO main website is drdo.gov.in. The application fee is ₹100 for General/OBC/EWS male candidates (nil for others).
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