Dr Panjai Woharndee currently serves as a director of the Forensic Science Services division at the Central Institute of Forensic Science (CIFS), Ministry of Justice of Thailand. Her division is in charge of the medico-legal investigation including autopsy, crime scene investigation, clinical forensic medicine, forensic radiology and forensic psychiatry services. The Central Institute of Forensic Science provides comprehensive forensic services which apply to the criminal justice system, human rights, and humanitarian work. She oversees the routine and special operations, policy and budget planning, procurement and human resource management of the division. Dr. Woharndee proactively engages in networking domestically and internationally. She has been elected chair of the Asia Pacific Medico-legal Agencies Network (APMLA) for two consecutive terms.

 

Dr Woharndee has been a forensic pathologist for nearly 20 years. She started her career in 2004 when she was deployed to one of the largest DVI operations in the aftermath of the Indian Ocean tsunami. During 2004-2007, she was part of the forensic unit operating in the Deep South of Thailand, which involved the investigation of insurgency and organised crimes. She has vast experience handling high-profile cases and likes to share her experience in various courses as an Adjunct Lecturer including a Master’s Programme in Forensic Science at Mahidol University, an International Medical Programme (India) at Rangsit University, and a Forensic Medicine Programme at Lerdsin Hospital, Institute of Forensic Medicine.

 

Dr Woharndee graduated from Thailand with a medical degree and diplomas in Anatomical Pathology, and Traffic Medicine. She pursued master's and doctorate degrees in forensic science from King's College, London, United Kingdom. She was recently awarded a certificate of completion for the Senior Executive Fellows Program, 4/2024, John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, Executive Education.