The Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR), a premier laboratory operating under the Ministry of Defence, has officially announced its recruitment drive for 2026. This presents a prestigious opportunity for psychology professionals to contribute to national defence through specialised research at the DIPR facility in Timarpur, Delhi.

Whether you are a postgraduate seeking a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) position or a PhD holder looking for a Research Associate (RA) role, this guide provides you with all the necessary information to apply before the deadline of February 1, 2026.

DIPR JRF & RA Fellowships Recruitment 2026

1. Overview of DIPR Recruitment 2026

2. Vacancy Breakdown

3. Eligibility Criteria & Age Limits

4. Stipend and Fellowship Benefits

5. Step-by-Step Application Process

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

7. Important Links

Overview of DIPR Recruitment 2026 {#overview}

The DIPR is dedicated to psychological research aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the Indian Armed Forces. For the 2026 cycle, the institute is offering a total of 09 fellowships. These positions are initially for two years, with JRF roles being extendable based on organisational rules and performance.

Organisation: Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR)
Location: Delhi
Application Mode: Offline Only
Last Date to Apply: February 01, 2026

Vacancy Breakdown {#vacancy-breakdown}

The vacancies are distributed across two primary research levels:

Fellowship Name	Number of Vacancies
Junior Research Fellow (JRF)	08
Research Associate (RA)	01
Total	09

Eligibility Criteria & Age Limits {#eligibility}

To ensure you are eligible for these fellowships, please review the specific academic and age requirements below:

Educational Qualifications

For JRF: Candidates must hold a post-graduation in psychology or applied psychology (specialising in social, clinical, health, personality assessment, or organisational behaviour). You must have secured a First Division and possess a valid NET or GATE qualification.
For RA: Candidates must have a PhD in Psychology.

Age Limit (as of the last date of application)

JRF: Maximum 28 years.
RA: Maximum 35 years.
Relaxations: The upper age limit is relaxable by 5 years for SC/ST candidates and 3 years for OBC candidates as per Government of India orders.

Stipend and Fellowship Benefit {#stipend}

DIPR offers competitive monthly stipends along with House Rent Allowance (HRA) and annual contingency grants.

JRF Stipend: ₹37,000/- per month for the first two years, increasing to ₹42,000/- in the third year if retained.
RA Stipend: ₹67,000/- per month for the entire two-year tenure.
Contingency Grant: JRFs receive ₹15,000 per annum (first 2 years), while RAs receive ₹20,000 per annum.
Application Fee: There is no application fee for any category.

Step-b-Step Application Process {#how-to-apply}

Candidates must apply offline. Follow these steps to ensure your application is valid:

1. Download & Fill: Obtain the application format from the official website and fill in your complete bio-data.

2. Photograph: Affix a recent passport-size photograph on the top right corner.

3. Documentation: Attach self-attested photocopies of your educational certificates (PG/PhD), age proof, and NET/GATE certificates.

4. Superscription: Clearly write "Application for the post of [JRF/RA]" on the envelope.

5. Mailing: Send the completed package to:

Director, DIPR, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi-110054.

Note: The application must reach the office within 30 days of the advertisement (by February 1, 2026).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) {#faqs}

1. Can I apply online for the DIPR fellowships?

No, applications are accepted offline only via post.

2. What is the selection process?

The selection process involves shortlisting candidates and then conducting an interview.

3. Is the RA position extendable?

No, the Research Associate (RA) tenure is for 2 years and is non-extendable.

4. Do I need a NET/GATE score for the JFR position?

Yes, a valid NET or GATE qualification is mandatory for JRF applicants.

Important Links {#links}

Official DRDO DIPR Website: Click Here
Download Notification & Application Form: Click Here

Analogy for Understanding: Think of the DIPR fellowship as a specialised laboratory key. While a general degree provides the map to the world of psychology, this fellowship offers the specific key to unlock real-world data and research environments that directly impact the mental resilience and well-being of those serving the nation.

#DIPRRecruitment2026 #DefenceJobs #PsychologyCareers #JRF #ResearchAssociate #DRDO #GovtJobsIndia #SarkariNaukri #PsychologyResearch