1. Introduction - Why This Fellowship Deserves Your Attention

If you are an engineering or science graduate who has consciously chosen research over routine placements, this notification is worth slowing down for.

The Junior Research Fellow (JRF) recruitment by DRDO Young Scientist Laboratory - Artificial Intelligence (DYSL-AI) is not just another government opening. It is a deep-tech research role in one of India’s most sensitive and high-impact domains: defence-focused Artificial Intelligence.

This opportunity is not meant for everyone-and that is exactly why it matters. With only 2 vacancies, DYSL-AI is clearly looking for quality, not quantity. If you are genuinely interested in AI research, long-term learning, and possibly a PhD pathway, this can be a defining step.

2. Key Details at a Glance (Verified Information Only)

ParticularDetails
OrganisationDRDO Young Scientist Laboratory - AI (DYSL-AI)
PostJunior Research Fellow (JRF)
Vacancies02
Mode of ApplicationOffline
Last Date to Apply22 January 2026
Age Limit28 years (relaxation as per rules)
Monthly Stipend₹37,000 + HRA (total ~₹48,100)
Job LocationBengaluru
TenureInitially 2 years (extendable to SRF based on performance)

3. Post-Wise Eligibility - What It Actually Means

On paper, the eligibility mentions B.Tech/B.E, M.Tech/M.E, or PG in Basic Science with NET/GATE. But in reality, DYSL-AI is looking much deeper than degrees.

Who Is Truly Suitable?

You are a strong candidate if:

  • You enjoy problem-solving, not just coding
  • You have worked on AI/ML projects beyond coursework
  • You understand algorithms, complexity, and model behaviour
  • You can explain why a model works, not just how to use it

The lab has clearly mentioned preference areas:

  • NLP / Speech & Language Technology
  • Computer Vision & Generative Models
  • Reinforcement Learning
  • 3D Vision, SLAM, ROS

If you have hands-on exposure (projects, internships, research papers, GitHub work) in even one of these, you are relevant.

Who Should Think Twice?

You may want to reconsider if:

  • You are applying only for the stipend
  • You dislike uncertainty or temporary roles
  • You are looking for quick absorption into a permanent job
  • You have no genuine interest in AI research depth

This fellowship is temporary by design, and DRDO is transparent about it.

4. How to Apply - A Guided Walkthrough (Offline Matters)

Unlike most modern recruitments, this is an offline application, which means small mistakes can cost you the opportunity.

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. Download the Annexure-I application form from DRDO’s website

  2. Prepare a clear, research-focused CV (not a placement-style resume)

  3. Attach:

    • Degree / Provisional certificate
    • CGPA-to-percentage conversion proof (mandatory)
    • GATE/NET scorecard (if applicable)
    • Caste certificate (if applicable)

  4. Self-attest all documents

  5. Send:

    • By post OR
    • Scanned copies by email (as mentioned in notification)

Important Mistake to Avoid: Many candidates forget the CGPA conversion proof. This is explicitly mentioned and often becomes a rejection reason.

5. Salary, Growth & Career Outlook - The Real Picture

At ~₹48,000/month in Bengaluru, this is not a luxury salary, but it is fair for a research fellowship.

The real value lies in:

  • Working on defence-grade AI problems
  • Exposure to real-world constraints (not academic toy datasets)
  • Possibility to:
    • Upgrade to Senior Research Fellow (SRF)
    • Register for part-time PhD (with permission)
    • Build a strong profile for global research roles

Many former DRDO fellows later move into:

  • Top PhD programs
  • Deep-tech startups
  • R&D roles in private defence and AI labs

6. Preparation Plan - How to Get Interview-Ready

Short-Term (Next 2-3 Weeks)

  • Revise:

    • Data Structures & Algorithms
    • Probability, Linear Algebra (AI essentials)

  • Be ready to explain your projects deeply

  • Prepare one strong research narrative:

    “This is the problem I worked on, this was my approach, this failed, this improved.”

Daily Routine Suggestion

  • 2 hours: Core AI concepts (ML/DL)
  • 1 hour: Paper reading or model analysis
  • 1 hour: Coding / experimentation

Resources (Non-Hype, Practical):

  • Pattern Recognition & ML - Christopher Bishop
  • Deep Learning - Ian Goodfellow
  • Official PyTorch/TensorFlow docs (not random blogs)

7. Pros & Cons - Honest Assessment

Pros

  • High-quality research exposure
  • DRDO brand credibility
  • AI specialization with national relevance
  • PhD-friendly environment

Cons

  • Very limited vacancies
  • No job security after tenure
  • Bengaluru living costs
  • High expectations, steep learning curve

This role rewards seriousness, not casual applicants.

8. Applicant Checklist (Before You Send the Form)

  • Age within limit on interview date
  • Degree certificate available
  • CGPA-to-percentage proof attached
  • CV focused on research & AI
  • Correct address/email used
  • Envelope/email clearly marked “Application for JRF recruitment”

9. Conclusion - A Mature Career Choice

If your goal is stable income with minimal effort, this may not be the right fit.

But if you are someone who wants to build depth, tolerate uncertainty, and work on meaningful AI problems, DYSL-AI offers a rare, focused platform.

Apply only if you are ready to commit intellectually. That honesty-both with yourself and the organisation-will take you much further than blind applications.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (Real Doubts Answered)

Q1. Is GATE mandatory? No. But having GATE/NET significantly improves shortlisting chances.

Q2. Will this lead to a permanent DRDO job? No. The fellowship does not guarantee absorption. This is clearly stated.

Q3. Can fresh graduates apply? Yes, if they meet qualification criteria and have strong fundamentals.

Q4. Is accommodation provided? May be provided if available; otherwise, HRA is paid.

Q5. Should I apply if I plan to do a PhD? Yes. This role is actually well-aligned with PhD aspirations.