Comprehensive Overview & Notification Background
The Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT), Girinagar, Pune—a premier deemed university under the Department of Defence Research & Development, Ministry of Defence, Government of India—has officially issued a notification for temporary research positions. The institute invites eligible and motivated candidates for a Walk-in Interview to fill vacancies for the posts of Senior Project Associate (SPA) and Junior Research Fellow (JRF).
This recruitment drive offers an exceptional opportunity for researchers, engineers, and scholars to work on advanced defence-related projects in state-of-the-art facilities. The selection will be conducted through a walk-in interview scheduled for 04 November 2026 at the DIAT campus in Girinagar, Pune. Interested candidates are advised to go through the complete eligibility criteria, project background, and submission guidelines before appearing for the selection process.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
The total number of posts declared under this recruitment standard is 2. The distribution of vacancies along with post-wise educational qualifications is outlined below:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Required Educational Qualifications |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Project Associate (SPA) | 1 | Master's Degree in Engineering/Technology or M.Sc in relevant scientific discipline from a recognized University, with 4 years of relevant research/industrial experience, OR Ph.D. in Engineering/Science stream. |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 1 | B.E. / B.Tech or M.E. / M.Tech in relevant branch with a valid GATE score OR Post Graduate Degree in Basic Science with CSIR-UGC NET qualification. |
Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
Candidate age limits are determined as per the official recruitment guidelines on the date of the walk-in interview:
- Senior Project Associate (SPA): Upper age limit is generally 40 years.
- Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Upper age limit is generally 28 years.
- Age Relaxation: Relaxations in the upper age limit are permissible for SC, ST, OBC, PWD, and women candidates as per Government of India / DRDO norms (typically up to 5 years for SC/ST and 3 years for OBC candidates).
Pay Scale, Salary Structure, Allowance, & Perks
Selected candidates will receive monthly consolidated fellowships along with House Rent Allowance (HRA) as applicable under DIAT and Government of India project recruitment guidelines:
- Senior Project Associate: Consolidated pay of Rs. 42,000/- per month + applicable HRA.
- Junior Research Fellow: Consolidated pay of Rs. 31,000/- per month + applicable HRA.
- Perks & Facilities: Candidates will get access to world-class research infrastructure, library resources, and academic ambiance suited for doctoral/post-doctoral level research.
Selection Process
The recruitment for these research posts is entirely performance-based. The selection methodology includes:
- Document Verification: Initial scrutiny of original mark sheets, certificates, identity proofs, and experience documents at the reporting venue.
- Walk-in Interview: An interactive personal interview by an expert selection committee to evaluate domain expertise, research aptitude, technical competence, and project capability.
- Final Merit List: Preparation of the final merit list based on performance in the interview, subject to meeting all physical and document verification requirements.
Detailed Interview Pattern & Marking Scheme
The Walk-in Interview assessment will judge candidates across multiple dimensions:
| Assessment Parameter | Maximum Weightage / Marks |
|---|---|
| Academic Performance & Background | 25 Marks |
| Relevant Research Experience & Publications | 25 Marks |
| Technical Knowledge & Domain Expertise | 30 Marks |
| Interview Performance & Communication Skills | 20 Marks |
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Attend the Walk-in Interview
Candidates planning to attend the recruitment drive must follow these step-by-step instructions carefully:
- Visit the official DIAT website at https://diat.ac.in and download the prescribed application form format from the Careers section.
- Fill out the application form completely with correct details regarding educational qualification, GATE/NET score, and work experience.
- Prepare a complete set of self-attested photocopies of all relevant mark sheets, certificates, category certificates, identity proof, and recent passport-size photographs.
- Report at the venue—Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Girinagar, Pune—on 04 November 2026 positively by 11:00 AM.
- Present original documents for physical verification prior to the interview session.
Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification
Candidates must ensure they bring original copies of all key documents along with self-attested photocopies during the reporting time:
- Duly filled bio-data/application form in the prescribed format.
- Proof of Date of Birth (Matriculation/10th passing certificate).
- Degree Certificates & Mark Sheets (Graduation, Post-Graduation, Ph.D. if applicable).
- Valid GATE score card or NET qualification certificate.
- Experience certificates from previous employers or research labs (if applicable).
- Category / Caste Certificate (if seeking age relaxation).
- Valid photo identity proof (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License).