Comprehensive Overview & Notification Background
The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has officially published the recruitment notification for 89 posts of Scientific Officer in the State Forensic Science Laboratories and related departments under the Government of Odisha. Interested and eligible candidates holding relevant post-graduate qualifications in science streams are invited to submit their applications online through the official OPSC web portal (opsc.gov.in). The registration process opens on 06 November 2026 and closes on 26 November 2026.
This recruitment drive represents a premier career opportunity for candidates seeking high-level technical and scientific government positions in Odisha. Scientific Officers play a critical role in legal and forensic science examinations, evidence analysis, and supporting criminal justice systems across the state.
Vacancies Breakdown & Educational Eligibility Criteria
The recruitment drive aims to fill a total of 89 vacant positions of Scientific Officers across various specialized scientific divisions. Below is the summarized breakdown of post distribution and qualification requirements:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Minimum Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Officer | 89 | Master's Degree (M.Sc.) in relevant subject/discipline (Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Biotechnology, Forensic Science, etc.) with necessary aggregate percentage from a recognized University or Institution. |
Note: Candidates must possess the required degree before the closing date of the application. Knowledge of the Odia language (reading, writing, and speaking) equivalent to ME School standard is mandatory.
Age Limit, Age Relaxation Rules, & Reservation Policy
Applicants must meet the prescribed age limits calculated as on the benchmark date of 1st January 2026:
- Minimum Age Limit: 21 Years
- Maximum Age Limit: 38 Years
Age Relaxation Policy:
- SC / ST / SEBC / Women Candidates: Upper age relaxation of 5 years.
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD): Upper age relaxation of 10 years.
- Ex-Servicemen: Relaxation as per government rules governing military service period.
Pay Scale, Salary Structure, Allowance, & Perks
Candidates selected for the post of Scientific Officer under OPSC will be placed in the regular pay scale of Level 10 of the Odisha Revised Scales of Pay (ORSP) Rules:
- Pay Matrix: Level 10 (Rs. 44,900/- to Rs. 1,42,400/-)
- Additional Allowances: Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Medical Allowance, and other allowances as mandated by the Government of Odisha from time to time.
Selection Process
The selection process conducted by the Odisha Public Service Commission for Scientific Officer recruitment involves the following stages:
- Written Examination: Shortlisting based on written testing focused on candidate's core specialization and scientific concepts.
- Viva-Voce / Personality Test: Evaluation of technical competency, aptitude, and subject knowledge.
- Document Verification: Authentic validation of educational qualifications, category certificates, identity proof, and Odia language proficiency.
- Medical Examination: Final medical fitness test as per state government rules.
Detailed Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
The written examination will assess subject-specific knowledge based on the discipline opted by the candidate.
| Evaluation Stage | Subject Focus | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Test | Core Scientific Subject / Specialization | 100 Marks | 2 Hours |
| Interview / Viva-Voce | Technical & Professional Suitability | 20 Marks | N/A |
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fill the Online Application Form
- Visit the official OPSC online portal:
www.opsc.gov.in. - Locate the Apply Online link for the Scientific Officer Recruitment 2026 notification.
- Complete the initial registration / One Time Registration (OTR) process using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Log in with credentials and carefully fill out personal details, educational qualifications, address, and category selection.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents, including photograph, signature, left-hand thumb impression, and educational certificates.
- Review all details in the application preview before submitting.
- Submit the form and take a printout of the generated application form for future recruitment reference.
Important Guidelines & Documents Required for Verification
- High School Certificate (10th) as proof of age.
- Master’s Degree Certificate and semester mark sheets.
- Odia Language pass certificate (ME school standard or equivalent).
- Caste/Category certificate (SEBC/SC/ST) issued by a competent authority.
- Identity proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card).
- Recent passport-size photographs.