OPSC Scientific Officer Recruitment 2026: 89 Vacancies, Eligibility, Exam Date and Apply Online
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The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has announced recruitment for 89 Scientific Officer posts under Advertisement No. 14 of 2026-27. The vacancies are spread across 10 divisions of the State Forensic Science Service Organisation under the Home Department, Government of Odisha.
Online applications are scheduled to open on 6 November 2026, and the last date to submit the application is 26 November 2026 at 5:00 PM. The written examination is scheduled for 17 January 2027, according to the recruitment details provided for this advertisement.
Candidates with a relevant master’s degree may be eligible, depending on the division they choose. Before applying, check the accepted degree subjects, minimum marks, age limit and Odia language requirement carefully.
OPSC Scientific Officer Recruitment 2026: Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting authority | Odisha Public Service Commission |
| Advertisement number | 14 of 2026-27 |
| Post name | Scientific Officer, Group B |
| Department | Home Department, Government of Odisha |
| Total vacancies | 89 |
| Divisions | 10 |
| Women vacancies | 29 |
| Pay | ₹44,900, Level 10, Cell 1 |
| Minimum qualification | Relevant master’s degree with 55% aggregate marks |
| Age limit | 21–42 years, as on 1 January 2026 |
| Application fee | ₹700; SC, ST and PwD candidates exempted, subject to notification rules |
| Application mode | Online |
| Registration begins | 6 November 2026 |
| Last date | 26 November 2026, 5:00 PM |
| Written exam date | 17 January 2027 |
| Official website | opsc.gov.in |
Important: The application link is scheduled to become available on 6 November 2026. Check the official advertisement and its annexures before submitting the form.
OPSC Scientific Officer Important Dates 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification date | 28 October 2026 |
| Online registration begins | 6 November 2026 |
| Application deadline | 26 November 2026, 5:00 PM |
| Written examination | 17 January 2027 |
| Examination centre details | Awaited |
Keep checking the OPSC website for updates to the examination schedule, application instructions and other recruitment notices.
OPSC Scientific Officer Vacancy 2026: Division-Wise Details
The recruitment covers 89 posts across 10 forensic science divisions. The following table reflects the vacancy distribution in the supplied recruitment details. Women vacancies are included in the total for each division.
| Division | Total posts | Women | UR | SC | ST | SEBC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 7 | 2 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 0 |
| Ballistics | 6 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 |
| Chemistry | 10 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 0 |
| Toxicology | 13 | 5 | 8 | 3 | 2 | 0 |
| Biology | 14 | 5 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
| Serology | 4 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| DNA | 12 | 4 | 6 | 2 | 3 | 1 |
| Forensic Psychology | 6 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Cyber Forensic | 11 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Document | 6 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total | 89 | 29 | 45 | 18 | 18 | 8 |
Four posts are reported as reserved for persons with benchmark disabilities. The notification’s reservation and adjustment rules should be checked to understand how these vacancies operate within the relevant categories. Transgender candidates should also consult the applicable eligibility and reservation provisions.
OPSC may revise the vacancy position according to the applicable rules and official notices.
OPSC Scientific Officer Eligibility Criteria 2026
Candidates must meet the educational qualification, age and Odia language requirements prescribed in the advertisement.
Educational Qualification: Division-Wise
The supplied recruitment details specify a recognised master’s degree with at least 55% aggregate marks. The accepted subjects differ by division.
| Division | Relevant master’s degree subjects |
|---|---|
| Physics | Physics, Applied Physics, Electronics with Physics, Integrated M.Sc. in Physics, or specified Forensic Science specialisations |
| Ballistics | Physics, Applied Physics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Integrated M.Sc. in Physics or Mathematics, or Forensic Science |
| Chemistry | Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Applied Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, or Forensic Science |
| Toxicology | Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Applied Chemistry, or specified Forensic Science specialisations |
| Biology | Zoology, Microbiology, Life Science, Genetics, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or specified Forensic Science specialisations |
| Serology | Relevant subjects listed for Biology, Serology or Forensic Science in the official advertisement |
| DNA | Zoology, Biotechnology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Life Sciences, or specified Forensic Science specialisations |
| Forensic Psychology | Psychology or Forensic Psychology, with Psychology as an honours or principal subject at bachelor’s level |
| Cyber Forensic | Computer Science, Computer Science and Engineering, IT, Cyber Security, Computer Application, Digital Forensic, or specified Forensic Science qualifications |
| Document | Physics or Chemistry, or Forensic Science with Chemistry or Physics at B.Sc. level |
This is a summary, not a substitute for Annexure A. Some qualifications are accepted only when the candidate’s degree includes a specified specialisation or subject combination. Verify your exact degree title and marks before applying.
Which Division Should You Choose?
The advertisement allows a candidate to apply for only one division. Use the following comparison as an initial guide, not as an official eligibility determination.
| Master’s degree | Potential divisions to check | Combined vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry or Applied Chemistry | Chemistry, Toxicology, Document | 29 |
| Physics | Physics, Ballistics, Document | 19 |
| Biochemistry | Chemistry, Biology, Serology, DNA | 40 |
| Zoology, Microbiology, Genetics or Biotechnology | Biology, Serology, DNA | 30 |
| Mathematics | Ballistics | 6 |
| Psychology | Forensic Psychology | 6 |
| Computer Science, IT or Cyber Security | Cyber Forensic | 11 |
These combined vacancy figures are not the number of posts available to every candidate with the listed degree. Eligibility depends on the precise qualification accepted for each division.
How to make the choice: First, identify every division that accepts your degree under Annexure A. Then compare the vacancy count, category-wise availability and your subject knowledge. Do not choose a division based only on the highest number of vacancies.
OPSC Scientific Officer Age Limit 2026
The stated age range is 21 to 42 years as on 1 January 2026.
Based on these limits, the corresponding date-of-birth range is 2 January 1984 to 1 January 2005, subject to the exact age calculation and eligibility provisions in the advertisement.
| Category | Upper age limit stated in the recruitment details |
|---|---|
| General | 42 years |
| SEBC, SC, ST, women and ex-servicemen | 47 years |
| PwD candidates with 40% or more disability | 52 years |
| PwD candidates also eligible for cumulative category relaxation | Up to 57 years, where permitted |
The availability and combination of age relaxations depend on the official rules and the candidate’s circumstances. Check the advertisement before assuming that two relaxations can be combined.
OPSC uses the date of birth recorded on the High School Certificate or an equivalent board certificate, as specified in the recruitment rules.
Odia Language Requirement
Candidates must satisfy the prescribed Odia language proficiency condition. The supplied details list the following qualifying routes:
- Passing the M.E. School examination or a higher examination with Odia as a language subject.
- Passing Matriculation or an equivalent examination with Odia as the medium in a non-language subject.
- Passing Odia as a language subject in the final examination of Class 7 from a recognised school.
- Passing an Odia test at Middle English School standard conducted by the competent education authority.
The official notification should be consulted to confirm the accepted proof for each route and whether any additional verification applies.
If your existing school certificates do not establish eligibility, arrange the permitted supporting certificate before the application deadline. Do not assume that a certificate issued after the closing date will be accepted.
OPSC Scientific Officer Application Fee
| Category | Fee stated in the recruitment details |
|---|---|
| General, SEBC and other non-exempt candidates | ₹700 |
| SC, ST and PwD candidates | Nil |
The supplied details specify online payment through available payment methods such as debit card, credit card, UPI and net banking. Follow the payment options displayed on the official application portal.
The recruitment information also states that the examination fee is refunded only to candidates who appear in both Paper I and Paper II. Confirm the precise refund conditions, bank-detail requirements and any exceptions in the advertisement.
OPSC Scientific Officer Salary 2026
The stated pay is ₹44,900 at Level 10, Cell 1 of the Pay Matrix, under the Odisha Revised Scale of Pay Rules, 2017.
Dearness allowance and other admissible allowances may be payable under the applicable government rules. Actual take-home salary will depend on the allowances, deductions and service conditions applicable at the time of appointment.
The ₹44,900 figure is the stated pay-matrix amount, not a guaranteed in-hand salary.
OPSC Scientific Officer Selection Process
The supplied recruitment details describe three stages:
- Written examination
- Personality test or viva voce
- Preparation of the final merit list
Candidates should read the official notification to understand the qualifying marks, shortlisting conditions and applicable reservation rules.
Written Exam Pattern
The written examination carries 400 marks.
| Paper | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I, Part A | General English | 50 | 50 | 90 minutes for Paper I |
| Paper I, Part B | General Awareness, General Aptitude and Reasoning | 50 | 50 | Included in Paper I |
| Paper II | Division-specific subject | 150 | 300 | 150 minutes |
| Total | 250 | 400 |
Paper II carries three times the marks of either individual section of Paper I. Candidates should therefore give substantial attention to their chosen subject while maintaining regular practice in English, general awareness, aptitude and reasoning.
Personality Test
The personality test or viva voce carries 50 marks, taking the stated maximum selection score to 450.
According to the supplied recruitment details, candidates are shortlisted in the ratio of twice the number of vacancies in each category, subject to the prescribed merit and qualifying requirements.
Negative Marking
The stated penalty for a wrong answer is 25% of the marks assigned to that question.
- Paper I: a wrong answer costs 0.25 marks.
- Paper II: a wrong answer costs 0.5 marks.
For example, if a candidate gets 100 questions correct and 30 incorrect in Paper II, the score would be 200 minus 15, or 185 marks, assuming each correct answer carries two marks and the stated negative-marking rule applies.
Read the examination instructions carefully before attempting questions. Avoid treating every uncertain question as a safe guess.
Tie-Breaking Rule
The supplied details state that Paper II marks take priority if candidates have the same total score. If the tie remains, the older candidate is ranked higher.
Confirm the complete tie-breaking provision in the official advertisement before relying on this summary.
When Will Cut-Off Marks Be Released?
The cut-off should not be treated as known before OPSC publishes the relevant results or marks information. Be cautious about websites presenting predicted cut-offs as official figures.
The final qualifying and selection position will depend on the examination, category-wise vacancies, applicable rules and official results.
OPSC Scientific Officer Syllabus 2026: How to Prepare
The official syllabus in Annexure B should be your primary study reference. The following subjects are broad preparation pointers, not a reproduction of the official syllabus.
| Division | Preparation areas to investigate in the official syllabus |
|---|---|
| Physics and Ballistics | Relevant physics concepts, mechanics, optics and projectile-related topics |
| Chemistry and Toxicology | Analytical chemistry, instrumental methods and subject-specific toxicology |
| Biology, Serology and DNA | Genetics, molecular biology, biological samples and DNA-related concepts |
| Forensic Psychology | Psychology fundamentals and the prescribed forensic psychology topics |
| Cyber Forensic | Computer systems, networks, digital evidence and relevant technical subjects |
| Document | Scientific examination of documents, handwriting, inks and related materials |
Practical Preparation Plan
- Download the syllabus for your selected division and make a topic-wise checklist.
- Use your master’s-level notes to revise the core subject.
- Practise objective questions and analyse mistakes instead of repeatedly attempting questions without review.
- Set aside regular time for English, general awareness, aptitude and reasoning.
- Review the official examination instructions for negative marking and qualifying requirements.
- Use previous OPSC question papers where relevant, without assuming that an older examination followed the same pattern.
Official resources: OPSC website, including the Candidate’s Corner, examination syllabus and previous question papers where available.
You can also read our guide to the OPSC Assistant Fisheries Officer answer key for related examination information.
How to Apply Online for OPSC Scientific Officer Recruitment 2026
Applications are scheduled to open on 6 November 2026 through the official OPSC website.
Follow these steps once the application link is active:
- Visit opsc.gov.in.
- Open the recruitment advertisement for Scientific Officer, Advertisement No. 14 of 2026-27.
- Read Annexures A and B to confirm your eligibility and syllabus.
- Register through the official application system and save your candidate account details.
- Fill in the personal, educational and other required information accurately.
- Select your division carefully. The supplied recruitment details allow only one division.
- Upload the required certificates, photograph, signature and other documents in the format specified by the portal.
- Pay the prescribed fee if you are not exempted.
- Review the entire form, submit the registered application and save the final acknowledgement.
The application link may not be active before the opening date. Do not rely on unofficial pages claiming to accept applications early.
Documents to Keep Ready
Prepare the documents applicable to your category and qualification:
- High School Certificate or equivalent proof of date of birth.
- Bachelor’s and master’s degree certificates and marksheets.
- Evidence of the required master’s degree aggregate.
- Accepted Odia language certificate or other permitted proof.
- SC or ST certificate, where applicable.
- Valid SEBC certificate, where applicable.
- Permanent disability certificate, where applicable.
- Photograph and signature in the required digital format.
- Bank details if required for fee refund purposes.
- Any other declaration or supporting certificate requested in the official advertisement.
Document validity matters. The supplied recruitment details specify an SEBC certificate issued on or after 7 November 2023. Verify this cutoff and all certificate-date requirements against the official advertisement before submitting your form.
Check the portal for file-type, file-size and document-merging instructions. Do not assume a particular upload limit unless it is specified by OPSC.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
A small error can create problems during document verification. Before submitting your application, check the following:
- Choosing the wrong division: Make sure your exact degree title is accepted in Annexure A.
- Applying for multiple divisions: Follow the one-division restriction.
- Incorrect date of birth: Match your High School Certificate.
- Missing Odia proof: Ensure that your certificate satisfies the prescribed condition and deadline.
- Invalid category certificate: Check the issue date, validity and format required for your category.
- Incorrect document uploads: Follow the portal’s file-format and size instructions.
- Payment without final submission: Confirm that the application has been successfully submitted and save the acknowledgement.
- Incorrect bank details: Enter accurate details if required by the refund procedure.
- Waiting until the final hours: Apply early enough to resolve technical or payment issues.
What Does an OPSC Scientific Officer Do?
A Scientific Officer works in a forensic science setting, examining evidence relevant to criminal investigations and legal proceedings. Depending on the assigned division, the work may involve chemical analysis, biological samples, DNA evidence, digital material, documents or ballistics-related evidence.
The role can involve laboratory examination, maintaining scientific records, preparing expert reports and explaining findings when required by the competent authority or court.
The precise duties depend on the division and the service rules governing the appointment.
Beware of Fake Recruitment Promises
OPSC recruitment is governed by the official selection process. Do not pay anyone who promises a guaranteed appointment, examination advantage or selection outside that process.
Use the official website to verify notices and contact information. If you receive a suspicious call or message, confirm the matter with OPSC through the contact details published on its website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many vacancies are available in OPSC Scientific Officer Recruitment 2026?
The supplied recruitment details list 89 vacancies across 10 divisions, including 29 posts for women.
What is the last date to apply?
The last date is 26 November 2026 at 5:00 PM, according to the supplied recruitment schedule.
When will the written examination take place?
The examination is scheduled for 17 January 2027. Check OPSC for subsequent notices or changes.
What is the educational qualification?
A relevant master’s degree with at least 55% aggregate marks is specified in the supplied details. Accepted subjects vary by division.
Can I apply for two divisions?
The supplied recruitment details state that candidates may apply for only one division.
What is the age limit?
The stated age range is 21 to 42 years as on 1 January 2026, with applicable relaxations subject to the official rules.
Is Odia language proficiency compulsory?
Yes, the supplied eligibility details require candidates to meet the prescribed Odia language condition. Check the advertisement for accepted proof.
What is the application fee?
The stated fee is ₹700 for non-exempt candidates, with SC, ST and PwD candidates exempted under the supplied details. Verify the applicable conditions before paying.
What is the salary of an OPSC Scientific Officer?
The stated pay is ₹44,900 at Level 10, Cell 1 of the Pay Matrix, plus applicable allowances.
Is there negative marking?
The supplied examination details specify a deduction of 25% of the marks assigned to a question for each wrong answer.
Will every applicant be called for the personality test?
No. The supplied details describe shortlisting based on merit and the prescribed category-wise ratio.
Where can I find the official notification?
Visit opsc.gov.in and locate Advertisement No. 14 of 2026-27. Read the full advertisement and annexures before applying.
More Odisha Government Job Updates
For more recruitment information, explore these related guides:
- Odisha Employment Exchange Online Registration
- Odisha Police Recruitment 2026
- OPSC AEE Recruitment Through GATE
- OAVS Recruitment
- OUAT KVK Recruitment
Visit our Odisha Sarkari Naukri section for more state government recruitment updates.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and is not an official OPSC publication. The recruitment details summarised here should be verified against Advertisement No. 14 of 2026-27 and its annexures on the official OPSC website. Eligibility, vacancy distribution, dates, fee conditions and other rules may be revised by the Commission. Always follow the latest official notice before applying.
