The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced a promising opportunity for young Indian nationals through the DRDO Young Scientist Laboratory – Artificial Intelligence (DYSL-AI). This Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) aims to bring in fresh talent eager to delve into Artificial Intelligence and contribute to the nation’s defense research and development. If you have a strong foundation in AI, machine learning, deep learning, or computer vision and are passionate about cutting-edge research, this is your chance to be part of a prestigious organization pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Before diving into the detailed eligibility, application process, and benefits, let’s explore what makes this opportunity at DYSL-AI truly unique. DRDO’s DYSL-AI lab collaborates with top-tier institutions like IITs, IISc Bangalore, and IIITs. As a JRF here, you won’t just be conducting theoretical research—you’ll be part of real-world defense applications, shaping India’s AI capabilities.
DRDO DYSL-AI JRF Recruitment 2025 – Notification Summary
The JRF advertisement, released under Ref. No.: DYSL-AI/JRE/HR/2025-26/01 dated 13th May 2025, invites applications from eligible candidates for four fellowship positions. Here’s a summarized table for quick reference:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | DRDO – DYSL-AI, Bengaluru |
| Post | Junior Research Fellow (JRF) |
| Number of Vacancies | 04 (May vary as per lab requirement) |
| Stipend | ₹37,000/month + 30% HRA (Total: ₹48,100 approx.) |
| Age Limit | 28 years (relaxation for SC/ST – 5 years, OBC – 3 years) |
| Application Deadline | 21 days from notification or 5th June 2025 (whichever is earlier) |
| Selection Process | Shortlisting → Online Coding Exam → Interview |
| Work Location | DYSL-AI, Dr. Raja Ramanna Complex, Raj Bhavan Circle, Bengaluru |
| Official Website | www.drdo.gov.in |
Candidates must ensure all application documents are complete before submission. Applications can be submitted via post or by email to: accounts.dysl-ai@gov.in.
Eligibility Criteria and Desirable Skills
To be eligible for the JRF post at DYSL-AI, candidates must meet the minimum educational requirements and preferably have certain technical competencies.
Minimum Educational Qualifications
Candidates should meet one of the following:
- Graduate degree in professional course (B.E./B.Tech) in First Division + valid GATE score
- Postgraduate degree in Basic Sciences in First Division + NET qualification
- Postgraduate degree in professional course (M.E./M.Tech) in First Division at both UG & PG levels
Desirable Technical Skills
The selection panel prefers candidates with a strong foundation and practical experience in AI-related domains. The ideal profile includes:
- Strong knowledge of problem-solving, algorithm design, and complexity analysis
- Proficiency in programming languages: Python, Java, or C++
- Familiarity with AI frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras, TensorRT
- Expertise in at least one of the following:
- Natural Language Processing (NLP), Speech Recognition, and Machine Translation
- 3D Vision and Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), ROS
- Computer Vision & Generative Models
- Reinforcement Learning and related AI techniques
These desirable skills will give applicants an edge during the shortlisting and interview stages.
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Application Process for DRDO JRF 2025
Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria must submit a comprehensive application as per the guidelines. The application must include:
- Duly filled Application Form (Annexure-I) – Downloadable from www.drdo.gov.in
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Self-attested copies of educational qualifications and certificates
- Proof of Date of Birth
- Proof of caste certificate (if applicable)
- No Objection Certificate (Annexure II & III) – Required for candidates in government/public sector jobs
- CGPA to percentage conversion proof from respective University/Institute
Submission Method:
- By Post:
To – The Director, DRDO Young Scientist Lab-AI, Dr. Raja Ramanna Complex, Raj Bhavan Circle, High Grounds, Bengaluru – 560001
Mention “Application for JRF recruitment” on the envelope. - By Email:
Send scanned copies to – accounts.dysl-ai@gov.in
Important: Incomplete or late applications will be rejected. Candidates should keep proof of dispatch/email.
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Selection Procedure
The recruitment process consists of three major steps:
- Shortlisting of Candidates:
Based on GATE score or marks in qualifying degree. - Online Coding Test:
Tentative date: 19th June 2025 (details will be emailed). - Interview Round:
Conducted at DYSL-AI, Bengaluru or through video conferencing. Final decision on interview mode lies with the Director, DYSL-AI.
All decisions by the selection committee are final and binding.
Key Selection Tips:
- Focus on AI programming frameworks and problem-solving techniques.
- Revise GATE-level subjects.
- Prepare for a real-world AI application discussion in the interview.
Tenure, Benefits, and Conditions
- Initial tenure is two years as JRF, extendable up to five years as SRF based on performance.
- Fellowship of ₹37,000/month + HRA (30%) making total around ₹48,100.
- Accommodation may be provided (HRA will not be given in such cases).
- Fellowship is temporary and does not guarantee absorption into DRDO.
- Applicants who have already held a DRDO JRF earlier are not eligible.
Important Instructions for Applicants
- Only candidates with final degree/provisional certificates are eligible.
- Candidates must make their own arrangements for travel and stay in Bengaluru.
- No TA/DA will be paid for interviews.
- Two passport-size photos and all original documents are to be presented at the time of the interview.
- Registration for a part-time Ph.D. during the fellowship period is allowed with DYSL-AI’s approval.
Why Join DYSL-AI?
Joining DYSL-AI not only gives you access to cutting-edge AI research but also places you in a dynamic ecosystem of scientists dedicated to technological advancement in defense. Here are the key reasons to apply:
- Collaborate with top-tier institutes (IITs, IISc, IIITs).
- Work on mission-critical AI applications for national defense.
- Career development with real-world impact in AI/ML/NLP domains.
- Opportunity to contribute to national security through innovation.
For complete details, eligibility format, and downloadable application forms, download the official DRDO Recruitment Notification.
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FAQs on DRDO DYSL-AI JRF Recruitment 2025
The last date is either 21 days from the publication in Employment News or 5th June 2025, whichever is earlier.
The upper age limit is 28 years. Relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST and 3 years for OBC is applicable.
Selected fellows will receive ₹37,000/month plus 30% HRA, totaling ₹48,100 per month approximately.
No, candidates previously awarded a JRF in any DRDO lab are not eligible.
Candidates will be shortlisted based on GATE/marks, followed by a coding exam and a personal interview.
