The DRDO ADE Research Fellowship Notification 2026 has officially been released for multiple openings of Research Associate (RA) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF) posts. This is an excellent opportunity for engineering graduates and postgraduates who wish to build a career in defence research and advanced aerospace technologies.
The notification has been issued by Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Bengaluru a premier laboratory functioning under DRDO, Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Eligible Indian nationals can apply through email from 4th March 2026 to 24th March 2026. Walk-in interviews are scheduled in April 2026. Candidates with qualifications such as PhD, ME/M.Tech, or BE/B.Tech with valid GATE score can check complete details below.
DRDO ADE Research Fellowship Notification 2026 – Key Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | DRDO – Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) |
| Advertisement No. | ADE/HRD/01/2026 |
| Posts | Research Associate (RA), Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
| Application Mode | |
| Application Start Date | 4 March 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 March 2026 |
| Interview Location | ADE, Bengaluru |
Important Dates – DRDO ADE Fellowship 2026
Candidates must carefully note the important dates to avoid missing deadlines.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | February 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 4 March 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 March 2026 |
| RA Shortlist Intimation | 31 March 2026 |
| JRF Screening Test (If Required) | 7 April 2026 |
| JRF Interview Dates | 7 & 8 April 2026 |
| RA Interview Date | 9 April 2026 |
DRDO ADE Research Fellowship Vacancy 2026 – Discipline Wise
ADE has announced multiple openings under various engineering disciplines.
| Fellowship | Discipline | Vacancies | Interview Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Associate (RA) | Aero / Mechanical Engineering | 01 | 9 April 2026 |
| Research Associate (RA) | Aero / Electronics / Material Engineering | 01 | 9 April 2026 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Aeronautical Engineering | 03 | 7 & 8 April 2026 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Mechanical Engineering | 01 | 7 & 8 April 2026 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Computer Science Engineering | 01 | 7 & 8 April 2026 |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | Electronics & Communication Engineering | 01 | 7 & 8 April 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria for DRDO ADE Research Fellowship 2026
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the required educational qualifications, experience, and age criteria.
Research Associate (RA) – Aero / Mechanical Engineering
Essential Qualification:
- PhD in Aeronautical / Mechanical Engineering with expertise in:
- Design and analysis of composite structures
- Advanced composite materials for aerospace applications
- Optimization of lightweight aircraft structures
- Aero elasticity
- OR
- ME/M.Tech (First Division) in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering
- Minimum 3 years post-M.Tech experience in aircraft structure research and composite material design
Desirable Skills:
- Knowledge of aero elasticity
- Aircraft structural analysis
- Weight optimization techniques
Research Associate (RA) – Aero / Electronics / Material Engineering
Essential Qualification:
- PhD in Aeronautical / Electronics / Material Engineering with expertise in:
- Radar absorbing structures
- Electromagnetic design and high-frequency solver tools
- Low observable structures / Radome design
- OR
- ME/M.Tech (First Division) with minimum 2 years of relevant experience
Desirable Skills:
- Radar Cross Section (RCS) measurement
- AI/ML applications in aircraft material design
- Python programming
- Electromagnetic analysis
Junior Research Fellow (JRF) – All Disciplines
Essential Qualification:
- BE/B.Tech (First Division) with valid GATE score
- OR
- ME/M.Tech with First Division in both Graduation and Post-Graduation
Note: GATE score is mandatory for BE/B.Tech candidates applying for JRF posts.
Age Limit
| Fellowship | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| Research Associate (RA) | 35 Years |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 28 Years |
Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST/OBC candidates as per Government of India rules.
How to Apply for DRDO ADE Research Fellowship 2026?
The application process is completely online via email. Follow these steps carefully:
- Download the application format from the official notification available on the DRDO website.
- Fill the form in your own handwriting in CAPITAL letters.
- Attach required supporting documents (educational certificates, experience proof, GATE scorecard, etc.).
- Scan the complete application along with documents into a single PDF file.
- Send the PDF to: anjanaur.ade@gov.in
- Submit before 24 March 2026.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Selection Process – DRDO ADE Fellowship 2026
For Research Associate (RA)
- Candidates will be shortlisted based on qualifications and experience.
- Shortlisted applicants will receive email intimation by 31 March 2026.
- Interview Date: 9 April 2026 at ADE, Bengaluru.
For Junior Research Fellow (JRF)
- All eligible candidates can report for the selection process.
- A screening test may be conducted on 7 April 2026 (if required).
- Interview will be conducted on 7 & 8 April 2026.
Interview Venue & Important Instructions
Venue:
ADE, DRDO
Raman Gate, Suranjandas Road
New Thippasandra Post
Bengaluru – 560075
Reporting Time: 08:00 – 08:30 AM
- Carry original government-issued ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License).
- Entry only through Raman Gate.
- Mobile phones, electronic gadgets, smartwatches, laptops, pen drives are strictly prohibited.
- Candidates must arrange their own accommodation.
Why Apply for DRDO ADE Research Fellowship?
- Exposure to advanced defence research projects
- Opportunity to work on aerospace innovation
- Competitive fellowship stipend
- Career growth in high-end R&D
For candidates aspiring to contribute to India’s defence and aerospace technology, this fellowship is a prestigious and rewarding opportunity.
FAQs
1. What is the last date to apply for DRDO ADE Research Fellowship 2026?
The last date to submit the application via email is 24 March 2026.
2. Is GATE mandatory for JRF posts?
Yes, GATE is mandatory for BE/B.Tech candidates. ME/M.Tech candidates are exempted.
3. What is the age limit for RA at ADE?
The maximum age limit for Research Associate is 35 years (with relaxation as per government rules).
4. Where will the interview be conducted?
The interview will be conducted at ADE, Bengaluru.
5. Can final-year students apply?
No. Candidates must possess the required qualification at the time of application.
Conclusion
The DRDO ADE Research Fellowship 2026 presents a golden opportunity for engineering graduates and researchers aiming to work in defence and aerospace research. With limited vacancies and a prestigious organization backing it, interested candidates should carefully review eligibility criteria and submit their applications before the deadline.
Read More: Latest Update on Scholarship 2026
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