The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Recruitment & Assessment Centre (RAC) has released the official notification (Advertisement No. 157) for the recruitment of 33 Scientist posts under the Defence Research & Development Service (DRDS) cadre. Eligible engineering and science professionals can apply online through the RAC portal from 30 May 2026 to 19 June 2026.
Selected candidates will be appointed on a regular basis under the Lateral Recruitment Scheme with attractive pay scales up to ₹1,23,100 per month (Level-13) along with Central Government allowances and benefits.
DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026: Overview
| Organization Name | Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) |
| Recruiting Body | Recruitment & Assessment Centre (RAC) |
| Post Name | Scientist E, Scientist D, Scientist C |
| Advt. No. | 157 |
| Total Vacancies | 33 |
| Qualification | First Division B.E./B.Tech, M.Sc., M.Pharmacy, MBBS/MD, or equivalent with 3-11 years relevant experience. |
| Job Type | Permanent Government Job |
| Apply Mode | Online |
| Last Date To Apply | 19 June 2026 |
Why This Recruitment is Important?
DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026 offers a prestigious opportunity for experienced engineers and science professionals to join India’s leading defence research organization. Selected candidates will work on advanced defence technologies, research projects, and strategic national initiatives while enjoying attractive pay, government benefits and excellent career growth under the Flexible Complementing Scheme (FCS). With only 33 vacancies available, this recruitment is highly competitive and sought after among qualified professionals.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 30 May 2026 |
| Start Date to Apply Online | 30 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 19 June 2026 (4:00 PM) |
Post-Wise Vacancy Details
| Post | Vacancies |
| Scientist E | 02 |
| Scientist D | 11 |
| Scientist C | 20 |
| Total | 33 |
Recruitment is available across multiple disciplines including:
- Electronics & Communication Engineering
- Computer Science Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Oceanography
- Pharmacology
- Remote Sensing & GIS
- Electrical Engineering
- Physiology
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
Educational Qualification
Candidates must possess:
- First Division BE/B.Tech in the relevant engineering discipline, OR
- First Division Master’s Degree in the relevant science discipline.
Minimum required experience:
- Scientist E: 11 Years
- Scientist D: 7 Years
- Scientist C: 3 Years
Age Limit
| Post | Maximum Age |
| Scientist C | 35 Years |
| Scientist D | 45 Years |
| Scientist E | 45 Years |
Age relaxation is applicable as per Government of India rules.
Salary Details
| Post | Pay Level | Basic Pay |
| Scientist E | Level 13 | ₹1,23,100 |
| Scientist D | Level 12 | ₹78,800 |
| Scientist C | Level 11 | ₹67,700 |
Additional allowances and government benefits will be provided as per rules.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
| General/OBC/EWS (Male) | ₹100 |
| SC/ST/PwD/Women | No Fee |
Selection Process
The selection process consists of:
- Administrative Screening
- Technical Screening
- Preliminary Online Interview (if required)
- Final Personal Interview at RAC, Delhi
Candidates must secure at least 75 marks out of 100 in the final interview to be considered for selection.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply by following these steps:
- Visit the official RAC website.
- Complete the online registration.
- Fill in the application form carefully.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Submit and lock the application before the deadline.
- Take a printout of the final application form for future reference.
Important Documents Required
- Date of Birth Proof
- Educational Certificates and Mark Sheets
- Experience Certificates
- Passport Size Photograph
- Signature
- Caste/PwD Certificate (if applicable)
- NOC/CCA Declaration (for Government Employees)
DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026 – FAQs
Q1. What is the last date to apply for DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Ans. The last date to submit the online application is 19 June 2026 (4:00 PM).
Q2. How many vacancies are available in DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Ans. A total of 33 vacancies have been announced for Scientist E, Scientist D and Scientist C posts.
Q3. What is the application fee for DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Ans. General/OBC/EWS male candidates must pay ₹100, while SC/ST/PwD and Women candidates are exempted from the fee.
Q4. What is the age limit for DRDO Scientist posts?
Ans. The maximum age limit is 35 years for Scientist C and 45 years for Scientist D/E posts. Age relaxation is applicable as per government rules.
Q5. What qualifications are required for DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Ans. Candidates must possess a First Division B.E./B.Tech, M.Sc., M.Pharmacy, MBBS/MD, or equivalent qualification in the relevant discipline along with the required experience.
Q6. What is the selection process for DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Ans. Selection involves Administrative Screening, Technical Screening, Preliminary Interview (if required) and Final Personal Interview.
Q7. What is the salary offered under DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Ans. The basic pay ranges from ₹67,700 to ₹1,23,100 per month depending on the post.
Q8. Where can I apply for DRDO RAC Scientist Recruitment 2026?
Ans. Candidates can apply online through the official RAC website before the closing date.
Important Links
| Link | Action |
|---|---|
| Download Official Notification | Download Official Notification PDF |
| Official Website | Visit Official Website |
| Apply Online | Available on RAC Portal |