The Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA) is one of Pakistan's largest and most advanced forensic laboratories, based in Lahore and operating under the Government of Punjab. Established in 2011, it provides scientific analysis and evidence in criminal investigations across the province. PFSA recruits in periodic cycles, and its openings are among the most searched-for scientific government jobs in Pakistan. This guide explains what PFSA hires for and how the process works.
Roles PFSA typically recruits
Forensic Scientists are hired across a range of specialties, including:
- DNA & Serology
- Toxicology
- Firearms & Tool Marks
- Crime & Death Scene Investigation (CDSI)
- Trace Chemistry
- Narcotics
- Latent Fingerprints
- Polygraph
- Pathology & Histology
- Digital / Computer Forensics
PFSA also advertises Junior Forensic Scientist posts (e.g. in Toxicology and CDSI), along with management roles (Directors, Managers/Training) and administrative and support staff spanning roughly BS-01 to BS-16.
Who is eligible
Eligibility depends entirely on the post. Scientific roles generally require a Bachelor's, Master's, MPhil or PhD in a relevant field — such as forensic science, chemistry, biology, molecular biology, toxicology or digital forensics — while administrative and support roles may require Intermediate to Bachelor's level education. Applicants must hold a Punjab domicile. Both men and women may apply, though a few field roles (for example, CDSI) are sometimes advertised as male-only depending on the cycle.
How to apply
PFSA recruitment is conducted online through the University of the Punjab (PU) portal. The typical process is:
- Open the recruitment notice on pfsa.punjab.gov.pk or the University of the Punjab site, then click the online application link.
- Complete the form and upload scanned copies of your academic transcripts, degrees, CNIC and domicile — incomplete uploads can lead to rejection.
- Pay the Rs. 1,000 application fee via the HBL challan generated by the portal.
- Submit before the advertised closing date and keep your confirmation for the test/interview stage.
Pay and benefits
PFSA scientific posts are offered under a Special Pay Package with market-competitive salaries, annual increments and structured training. In a recent cycle, for example, a Forensic Scientist (Pathology & Histology) position was advertised at around Rs 375,000 per month with a 10% annual increase. Exact pay varies by post and cycle, so always check the current advertisement.
How to stay updated
New PFSA cycles are announced on pfsa.punjab.gov.pk and the University of the Punjab website. Bookmark this guide — we track PFSA hiring and will update it when the next recruitment opens.