About NPOL JRF Recruitment 2026
The Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), a premier research laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India, has issued an official notification (Advt. No. NPOL/JRF/01/2026). NPOL is inviting dynamic and meritorious Indian nationals for a Walk-in-Interview to select Junior Research Fellows (JRF) for defence-related research projects.
Discipline-Wise Vacancies & Qualifications
| Discipline / Subject | Vacancies | Essential Educational Qualifications |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science & Engineering | Anticipated | B.E./B.Tech in CSE (1st Division) with valid GATE score OR M.E./M.Tech in CSE (1st Division) at both Graduate and Post Graduate levels. |
| Mechanical Engineering | 04 Posts | B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering (1st Division) with valid GATE score OR M.E./M.Tech in Mechanical Engineering (1st Division) at both levels. |
| Chemical Engineering / Rubber Tech / Polymer Tech / Nanotechnology / Materials Science | Anticipated | B.E./B.Tech or M.E./M.Tech in relevant discipline (1st Division) with valid GATE score / postgraduate standards. |
| Opto Electronics / EEE / ECE / Instrumentation Engineering | Anticipated | B.E./B.Tech or M.E./M.Tech in relevant branch with 1st Division and valid GATE score (or specific papers in Fibre Optics/Lasers for Opto Electronics). |
| Physics / Oceanography / Ocean Technology / Meteorology | Anticipated | Post-Graduate Degree in Basic Science (1st Division) with valid NET/GATE qualification OR M.E./M.Tech in relevant ocean science disciplines. |
Fellowship Stipend & Tenure
- Monthly Stipend: βΉ37,000/- per month plus House Rent Allowance (HRA) as admissible under DRDO rules.
- Tenure: Initially awarded for a period of 2 years, extendable further as per institutional rules and performance reviews.
Age Limit & Relaxations
- Upper Age Limit: Maximum 28 years as on the date of the walk-in interview.
- Age Relaxation: Relaxable by 5 years for SC/ST candidates and 3 years for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates as per Government of India guidelines.
How to Apply for NPOL DRDO Recruitment 2026
There is no online or postal application submission process required prior to the event; selection is carried out directly via a walk-in interview. Interested and eligible candidates must follow these steps:
- Advance Bio-data Submission (Recommended): Prospective candidates may email their one-page bio-data in advance to hrd.npol@gov.in to assist with administrative arrangements.
- Attend the Walk-in Interview: Report directly in person on the scheduled date and time at the designated venue carrying all mandatory documents.
Walk-in-Interview Schedule & Venue Details
There is no online application form submission required for this drive. Candidates meeting the criteria can directly appear for the walk-in process along with required documents.
- Walk-in Date: October 10, 2026 (Saturday)
- Reporting Time: 09:30 AM
- Interview Venue:
Bhavan’s Varuna Vidyalaya, in the Campus of Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), Thrikkakara P.O., Kochi β 682021, Kerala - Optional Advance Step: Candidates may email their one-page bio-data to hrd.npol@gov.in beforehand for administrative tracking.
Documents Required for Interview
Candidates must bring the following items in original along with one set of self-attested photocopies:
- Educational mark sheets and degree certificates (from 10th standard onwards).
- Valid GATE score card or NET certificate (wherever applicable).
- Valid Government-issued Photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Driving License).
- Caste/Community certificate in the prescribed format (if seeking age relaxation).
- Recent colour passport-size photograph.
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) if employed currently in any Government Department, Public Sector Undertaking, or Autonomous Body.
