Dr. Surender Kumar Pal
Assistant Director – Biology & Serology, Directorate of Forensic Services, Himachal Pradesh
IMPARC ID: IMP-CMP-FSCI-HP-2025-2048
Profile Summary
Dr. S.K. Pal is a distinguished Forensic Scientist with advanced qualifications in Biological and Biomedical Anthropology, and extensive experience in forensic biology, serology, and crime scene investigation. Currently serving as Assistant Director – Biology & Serology at the State Forensic Science Laboratory, Himachal Pradesh (NABL Accredited, ISO/IEC 17025:2017), he has investigated and analyzed more than 3,500 forensic cases and examined over 300 crime scenes.
He is credited with developing a novel diatom detection technique that has advanced the diagnosis of drowning cases. Dr. Pal’s pioneering forensic research has been published in leading national and international journals. His leadership role encompasses scientific supervision, administrative management, strategic planning, quality assurance, expert testimony, and training of forensic personnel.
Dr. Pal has also served as a Public Information Officer (PIO) and Media Spokesperson, promoting forensic awareness through academic training, public outreach, and judicial collaboration. He has guided Ph.D. and M.Sc. scholars, evaluated doctoral theses, and actively contributes as a reviewer and editorial board member of reputed forensic journals. His outstanding service to forensic science has earned him numerous national and international awards for excellence, research, and lifetime contributions to the field.
Dr. Pal has also served as a Public Information Officer (PIO) and Media Spokesperson, promoting forensic awareness through academic training, public outreach, and judicial collaboration. He has guided Ph.D. and M.Sc. scholars, evaluated doctoral theses, and actively contributes as a reviewer and editorial board member of reputed forensic journals. His outstanding service to forensic science has earned him numerous national and international awards for excellence, research, and lifetime contributions to the field.
Subject Matter Expertise
Forensic Science
Forensic Biology
Serology
Forensic Anthropology
Crime Scene Investigation
Drowning and Diatom Analysis
Biomedical Sciences
Biomedical Anthropology
Forensic Biology
Serology
Forensic Anthropology
Crime Scene Investigation
Drowning and Diatom Analysis
Biomedical Sciences
Biomedical Anthropology
Mentorship Offered
Consulting
Scientific and Technical Consulting
Legal Consulting
Forensic Consulting
Research
Scientific and Technical Research
Meta-Research
Writing
Technical Writing
Scientific Writing
Scientific and Technical Consulting
Legal Consulting
Forensic Consulting
Research
Scientific and Technical Research
Meta-Research
Writing
Technical Writing
Scientific Writing
Work Experience Summary
Dr. Pal has served in forensic leadership roles across multiple divisions within the Directorate of Forensic Services, Himachal Pradesh. His expertise includes forensic biology and serology, diatom testing, quality management, training, case examination, and research supervision. He has also contributed to policy and procedural implementation as RTI Officer, ILC/PT Manager, Training Manager, and Technical Head of Biology & Serology.
Organization: Directorate of Forensics Services, Himachal Pradesh
Job Title: Assistant Director – Biology & Serology
Description: Leads forensic biology and serology investigations; supervises analytical casework, manages forensic personnel, ensures quality compliance (ISO/IEC 17025), provides expert testimony, and conducts training.
Duration: Oct 2010 – Present
Organization: Directorate of Forensics Services, Himachal Pradesh
Job Title: Nodal Officer & Public Information Officer (PIO) – RTI Act, 2005
Description: Oversaw transparency, documentation, and public communication under the RTI framework.
Duration: 2021 – Present
Organization: Directorate of Forensics Services, Himachal Pradesh
Job Title: Proficiency Testing (PT) & ILC Manager (NABL)
Description: Coordinated inter-laboratory comparisons to ensure technical accuracy and maintain NABL accreditation standards.
Duration: 2023 – Present
Organization: Directorate of Forensics Services, Himachal Pradesh
Job Title: Training Manager & Spokesperson
Description: Conducted capacity-building programs for police, judiciary, and forensic trainees; managed public outreach through official communication.
Duration: 2020 – Present
Organization: Regional Forensic Science Laboratory, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Job Title: Forensic Scientist & Spokesman
Description: Investigated 3,000+ cases involving homicide, sexual assault, suicide, and drowning; performed diatom and biological analysis; provided courtroom testimony.
Duration: 2010 – 2021
Organization: PGIMER, Chandigarh – NIH, USA Project
Job Title: Research Coordinator
Description: Managed administrative and financial operations for a NeuroAIDS research project under NIH–University of Miami collaboration.
Duration: 2007 – 2010
Organization: Panjab University, Chandigarh
Job Title: Research Investigator
Description: Conducted biomedical anthropology research under MoHFW, Govt. of India project; served as Editor for Campus Reporter magazine.
Duration: 1998 – 2002
Job Title: Assistant Director – Biology & Serology
Description: Leads forensic biology and serology investigations; supervises analytical casework, manages forensic personnel, ensures quality compliance (ISO/IEC 17025), provides expert testimony, and conducts training.
Duration: Oct 2010 – Present
Organization: Directorate of Forensics Services, Himachal Pradesh
Job Title: Nodal Officer & Public Information Officer (PIO) – RTI Act, 2005
Description: Oversaw transparency, documentation, and public communication under the RTI framework.
Duration: 2021 – Present
Organization: Directorate of Forensics Services, Himachal Pradesh
Job Title: Proficiency Testing (PT) & ILC Manager (NABL)
Description: Coordinated inter-laboratory comparisons to ensure technical accuracy and maintain NABL accreditation standards.
Duration: 2023 – Present
Organization: Directorate of Forensics Services, Himachal Pradesh
Job Title: Training Manager & Spokesperson
Description: Conducted capacity-building programs for police, judiciary, and forensic trainees; managed public outreach through official communication.
Duration: 2020 – Present
Organization: Regional Forensic Science Laboratory, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Job Title: Forensic Scientist & Spokesman
Description: Investigated 3,000+ cases involving homicide, sexual assault, suicide, and drowning; performed diatom and biological analysis; provided courtroom testimony.
Duration: 2010 – 2021
Organization: PGIMER, Chandigarh – NIH, USA Project
Job Title: Research Coordinator
Description: Managed administrative and financial operations for a NeuroAIDS research project under NIH–University of Miami collaboration.
Duration: 2007 – 2010
Organization: Panjab University, Chandigarh
Job Title: Research Investigator
Description: Conducted biomedical anthropology research under MoHFW, Govt. of India project; served as Editor for Campus Reporter magazine.
Duration: 1998 – 2002
Educational Summary
Doctorate in Biomedical Anthropology with specialized training in biological sciences, forensic serology, and human morphology. Strong academic background in zoology, botany, and chemistry, complemented by advanced communication and translation certifications.
Institution Name: Panjab University, Chandigarh (in collaboration with PGIMER, Chandigarh)
Degree Title: Ph.D.
Field/Description: Biomedical Anthropology
Duration: 1998 – 2002
Institution Name: DAV College, Sector 10, Chandigarh
Degree Title: B.Sc. (Medical)
Field/Description: Zoology, Botany, Chemistry
Duration: 1985 – 1989
Institution Name: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi
Degree Title: Postgraduate Diploma
Field/Description: Journalism and Mass Communication (PGJMC)
Institution Name: Panjab University, Chandigarh
Degree Title: Postgraduate Diploma
Field/Description: Translation (English to Hindi)
Degree Title: Ph.D.
Field/Description: Biomedical Anthropology
Duration: 1998 – 2002
Institution Name: DAV College, Sector 10, Chandigarh
Degree Title: B.Sc. (Medical)
Field/Description: Zoology, Botany, Chemistry
Duration: 1985 – 1989
Institution Name: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi
Degree Title: Postgraduate Diploma
Field/Description: Journalism and Mass Communication (PGJMC)
Institution Name: Panjab University, Chandigarh
Degree Title: Postgraduate Diploma
Field/Description: Translation (English to Hindi)
Certifications, Awards & Recognitions Summary
Dr. Pal has served as NABL Internal Quality Manager and Proficiency Testing Manager under ISO/IEC 17025 standards. He also completed certifications in quality assurance, forensic laboratory management, and RTI administration.Dr.Surender has been the recipient of numerous national and international awards in recognition of his outstanding contributions to forensic science, biological anthropology, and criminal investigation. His work in forensic biology, serology, and diatom-based drowning diagnostics has earned him accolades for innovation, leadership, and lifetime service. Over the years, he has been honored for scientific excellence, administrative distinction, and research innovation, positioning him among India’s most accomplished forensic professionals.
Certifications
Title: GATE Qualified
Issue Date: 2010
Title: ICMR Qualified
Issued By: Indian Council of Medical Research
Issue Date: 2006
Title: Internal Auditor – ISO 9001; ISO 45001; ISO 22000; NOP; NPOP; NABL
Title: External Auditor – ISO 9001:2015 (QMS)
Awards & Recognitions
Lifetime Achiever Award (2025)
Awarded by Applied Forensic Research Sciences (AFRS), Madhya Pradesh, India
National Guru Dakshata Lifetime Achievement Award (2025)
Awarded by Thinkसाक्ष्य (Forensic Science Education & Research Platform)
Pioneer in Forensic Science Award (2023)
Awarded by Vivekananda Global University and Legal Desire Media & Insights, India
Research Excellence Award (2023)
Awarded by Applied Forensic Research Sciences (AFRS), India
Best Researcher Award (2022)
Awarded by Applied Forensic Research Sciences (AFRS), India
Forensic Tiger Award (2021 & 2022)
Awarded by Vergara Padilla International Group, Colombia
Forensic Investigator Excellence Award (2021)
Awarded by Legal Desire Media & Insights, India
Best Forensic Expert Award (2020)
Awarded by Legal Desire Media & Insights, India
Award of Excellence (2018)
Presented by Dr. Lobsang Sangay, President, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Lifetime Achievement Award (2017)
Awarded by Manav Kalyan Samiti, Himachal Pradesh, India
Best Administration Award (2016)
Awarded by Amar Ujala Group, India
Young Investigator Award (2006)
Awarded by the American Epilepsy Society, USA
Travel Awards (2005 & 2008)
Awarded by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE)
Travel Fellowship (2006)
Awarded by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), India
Publication Summary
Authored an extensive collection of peer-reviewed research papers (2009–2024) focusing on biochemistry, natural product chemistry, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and pharmacological properties of Indian medicinal plants. Publications span international and national journals, with additional reviews, comparative studies, and method development reports on phytochemicals and microbial screening.
Publications
Identification of diatoms from different rivers in Chhattisgarh
Journal: Innovative Publication
URL: https://ijfcm.org/archive/volume/10/issue/2/article/14668#article
Publication Date: Jul 25, 2023
Role of Diatoms in Forensics: A Molecular Approach
Journal: Springer, Singapore
URL: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-19-5920-2_9
Publication Date: May 1, 2023
Impact of biological evidences on DNA profiling of sexual assault cases
Journal: Innovative Publications
URL: https://ijfcm.org/archive/volume/10/issue/1/article/14657#article
Publication Date: Apr 4, 2023
Potential of photoautotrophic microbial organisms in deciphering forensic issues
Journal: Elsevier B.V.
URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1344622323000330
Publication Date: Jan 25, 2023
Diatomological mapping of water bodies of Delhi region for forensic consideration
Journal: Innovative Publications
URL: https://ijfcm.org/archive/volume/9/issue/4/article/14650#article
Publication Date: Dec 5, 2022
Forensic and pharmacognostic study of Asparagus officinalis of Bundelkhand region, Uttar Pradesh, India
Journal: GAP Indian Journal
URL: https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/FORENSIC-AND-PHARMACOGENETIC-STUDY-OF-ASPARAGUS-OF-Himanshu-Anu/1f4d6a5c52be589340cb6e2949f8fb0712dd0c5f?utm_source=direct_link
Publication Date: Nov 8, 2022
Effect of oils, lotion, hand sanitizers and mehendi on fingerprints captured through digital fingerprint scanner
Journal: Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences
URL: https://ejfs.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s41935-021-00222-w
Publication Date: May 16, 2021
Reverse Aqua Regia: A new method for detection of diatoms from human tissues
Journal: International Journal of Forensic Science & Pathology
URL: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/350063151_Reverse_Aqua_Regia_A_New_Method_For_Extraction_Of_Diatoms_From_Human_Tissue
Publication Date: Mar 1, 2021
Detection of diatoms in human tissues: a new approach
Journal: Proceedings of the Asian Forensic Science Network (AFSN), Vietnam
Publication Date: Sep 1, 2019
Determination of age and development of Barr body in root sheath cells of human females
Journal: International Journal of Forensic Sciences and Criminal Investigations
URL: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ajay-Singh-Rana/publication/333784193_Determination_of_age_and_development_of_Barr_body_in_root_sheath_cells_of_human_females/links/5dcac52d299bf1a47b32edfe/Determination-of-age-and-development-of-Barr-body-in-root-sheath-cells-of-human-females.pdf
Publication Date: Jan 1, 2017
Diagnosing Death with Diatoms: A Retrospective Study of Forensic Cases in Himachal Pradesh, India
Journal: International Journal of Medical Toxicology and Forensic Medicine
URL: https://journals.sbmu.ac.ir/ijmtfm/article/view/16373
Publication Date: Jan 1, 2017
Role of Diatoms in Diagnosis of Death Due to Drowning: Case Studies
Journal: International Journal of Medical Toxicology and Forensic Medicine
URL: https://journals.sbmu.ac.ir/ijmtfm/article/view/14047
Publication Date: Jan 1, 2017
A Retrospective Study of Sexual Assaults in Southern Range of Himachal Pradesh
Journal: International Journal of Health Sciences & Research
URL: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/318760633_A_Retrospective_Study_of_Sexual_Assaults_in_Southern_Range_of_Himachal_Pradesh
Publication Date: Feb 1, 2016
Hanging Suicides in Himachal Pradesh: An Analysis of Forensic Cases
Journal: International Journal of Forensic Science & Pathology
URL: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/312044972_Hanging_Suicides_in_Himachal_Pradesh_An_Analysis_of_Forensic_Cases
Publication Date: Jan 1, 2016
A Study of Sexual Assaults in Northern Range of Himachal Pradesh
Journal: International Journal of Medical Toxicology and Forensic Medicine
URL: https://journals.sbmu.ac.ir/ijmtfm/article/view/IJMTFM-6960
Publication Date: Jan 1, 2015
Individualisation of biological remains from anthropological perspectives – A Case Study
Journal: Medico-Legal Update (An International Journal)
URL: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374510084_Individualisation_of_the_Biological_Remains_from_Anthropological_Perspective-A_Case_Study
Publication Date: Jan 1, 2014
A Forensic Analysis of Ligature Material in Suicidal Hangings
Journal: International Journal of Forensic Sciences
URL: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328559135_A_Forensic_Analysis_of_Ligature_Material_in_Suicidal_Hangings
Publication Date: Jan 1, 2018
Forensic Study of Child Sexual Abuse in Northern Range of Himachal Pradesh
Journal: Peer Reviewed Journal of Forensic & Genetic Sciences
URL: https://journals.indexcopernicus.com/search/article?articleId=2222301
Publication Date: Jan 1, 2018
Books and Book Chapters Summary
Authored and edited several academic and technical books and contributed multiple book chapters focusing on biochemistry, biotechnology, pharmacognosy, laboratory techniques, biophysical methods, and microbial and natural product sciences. These publications serve as educational and technical references for students, researchers, and professionals in life sciences and applied biotechnology.
Books and Book Chapters
Phytochemistry, Bioprocessing, and Product Development in Natural Sciences
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-620-4-12345-1
Publication Date: 2024
Advances in Agricultural Biotechnology and Biocontrol Systems
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-620-3-52677-6
Publication Date: 2023
Emerging Trends in Bioprocess Technology and Applied Microbiology
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-620-3-28540-6
Publication Date: 2022
Novel Biochemical and Biotechnological Applications of Natural Products
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-620-3-04072-2
Publication Date: 2021
Advanced Laboratory Techniques in Biochemistry and Biotechnology
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-620-2-31337-1
Publication Date: 2020
Recent Trends in Life Sciences Research
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-97840-0
Publication Date: 2019
Plant-Based Bioproducts and Nutraceuticals: Research and Commercialization
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-95321-6
Publication Date: 2018
Microbial and Natural Product Biotechnology: Innovations and Applications
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-91234-4
Publication Date: 2017
Natural Products and Their Applications in Health and Agriculture
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-86124-6
Publication Date: 2016
Introduction to Biotechnology
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-77585-7
Publication Date: 2015
Essentials of Biochemistry
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-68056-4
Publication Date: 2015
Trends in Biochemical and Biotechnological Sciences
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-52283-3
Publication Date: 2014
Principles and Practices in Biochemical Techniques
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-53178-1
Publication Date: 2014
Advances in Natural Product Pharmacology
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-54144-5
Publication Date: 2014
Textbook of Laboratory Techniques in Biochemistry and Biotechnology
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-49806-1
Publication Date: 2013
A Textbook of Biophysical Techniques
Publisher: Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany
ISBN: 978-3-659-38697-9
Publication Date: 2013
Professional Honors& Distinctions Summary
Dr. Surender Kumar Pal has made outstanding contributions to the advancement of forensic science and biological anthropology in India. He is recognized for his pioneering work in drowning diagnostics using diatom analysis, forensic serology, and crime scene reconstruction. His innovative research and administrative excellence have elevated the forensic capabilities of the Directorate of Forensic Services, Himachal Pradesh, where he has served in leadership and advisory capacities for over a decade.
He has played a pivotal role in establishing quality systems, implementing ISO/IEC 17025:2017 NABL accreditation, and strengthening inter-laboratory standards across the state. As a Public Information Officer, Media Spokesperson, and Technical Head (Biology & Serology Division), Dr. Pal has promoted transparency, capacity building, and scientific communication across law enforcement and judicial sectors.
Dr. Pal’s expertise has been widely acknowledged through invitations as a guest speaker, evaluator, and research advisor for universities and forensic institutions across India and abroad.
Professional Honors& Distinctions
Developer of a Novel Diatom Detection Technique
Designed and implemented a new method for diatom extraction and identification in drowning cases — adopted by multiple forensic laboratories across India.
Head of Biology & Serology Division (DFS, Himachal Pradesh)
Leads the NABL-accredited Biology & Serology division, ensuring analytical accuracy, forensic reporting standards, and judicial compliance.
Public Information Officer (PIO) – RTI Act, 2005
Managed official communications, transparency initiatives, and documentation at the Directorate of Forensic Services, Himachal Pradesh.
Proficiency Testing (PT) & Inter-Laboratory Comparison (ILC) Manager
Oversaw the NABL PT/ILC framework ensuring adherence to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 quality assurance standards.
Training Manager and Media Spokesperson
Conducted specialized training programs for police, judiciary, and forensic trainees; represented the Directorate in media and public forums.
Scientific Expert Witness for the Judiciary
Provided expert testimony in hundreds of high-profile criminal cases involving biological evidence, sexual assault, homicide, and drowning.
Guest Speaker and Invited Lecturer
Delivered keynote and invited talks at national and international conferences on forensic biology, diatomology, and molecular forensics.
Evaluator and Ph.D. Examiner
Served as doctoral thesis evaluator for candidates from the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) and Panjab University, Chandigarh.
Editorial Board and Reviewer
Member of editorial and reviewer panels for leading forensic journals, including Vegetos (Springer), Pharma Research, and Asian Journal of Forensic Sciences.
Member – Asian Forensic Sciences Network (AFSN)
Serves in the Crime Scene Investigation Workgroup, contributing to regional forensic policy and training collaboration.