The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a premier government health research institution mandated to carry out health sciences research and provide evidence-based recommendations to improve public health in Kenya. As a center of excellence in medical research and innovation, KEMRI is driven by a commitment to promote national health development through collaborative studies, capacity building, and health-related innovation.
In pursuit of its mission to provide scientific solutions for the improvement of human health, KEMRI seeks to recruit highly motivated, dynamic, and qualified individuals to fill the following positions. This recruitment presents an excellent opportunity to be part of a respected research institution contributing to the health and well-being of Kenyans and the broader global community.
Below are detailed job descriptions for each of the positions available.
1. Driver
The Driver will provide transport services to staff, project teams, and official visitors. They will be responsible for ensuring the safe and timely transportation of personnel, equipment, and documents.
Responsibilities:
- Operate and maintain project and institutional vehicles in a safe and responsible manner.
- Ensure the vehicle is regularly cleaned, serviced, and maintained according to institutional policy.
- Maintain accurate vehicle logs and report any issues or accidents immediately.
- Adhere to road safety regulations and KEMRI travel policies.
- Assist with loading and offloading goods when necessary.
- Support minor logistical operations when not engaged in driving duties.
2. Farm Trainers (4 Positions)
Farm Trainers will be responsible for conducting training and capacity-building sessions for farming communities in alignment with agricultural and public health research programs.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and deliver farm training modules focusing on sustainable agricultural practices.
- Organize training workshops and field demonstrations for targeted groups.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of training activities and provide feedback to the research team.
- Collaborate with agricultural officers and other stakeholders in implementing training programs.
- Prepare training reports and maintain records of sessions conducted.
3. Field Assistants (Data Collection)
Field Assistants will support data collection efforts in health research studies by administering surveys and collecting relevant field data from study participants.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct interviews and complete structured questionnaires with study participants.
- Ensure data accuracy and completeness during collection.
- Upload data to central databases as per protocol timelines.
- Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards in data collection.
- Liaise with local community leaders and participants to facilitate fieldwork.
4. Personal Assistant
The Personal Assistant will provide administrative and secretarial support to a senior official to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in their office.
Responsibilities:
- Manage schedules, appointments, and meetings.
- Handle incoming and outgoing correspondence and calls.
- Maintain an organized filing and documentation system.
- Draft official communication and prepare reports as directed.
- Make travel arrangements and logistical plans for meetings and conferences.
5. Field Supervisor – Ophthalmic Nurse/Ophthalmic Clinical Officer
The Field Supervisor will oversee field activities in eye care-related research projects, ensuring high standards of clinical data collection and community engagement.
Responsibilities:
- Supervise a team of field staff involved in ophthalmic research.
- Conduct eye screenings and minor treatments in the field as per protocol.
- Provide mentorship and technical support to the clinical field team.
- Ensure proper storage and handling of ophthalmic instruments and materials.
- Coordinate logistics for field visits and community health activities.
6. Community Liaison Officer
The Community Liaison Officer will act as the primary link between the research team and the community, facilitating trust, participation, and communication.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement community engagement strategies.
- Facilitate community meetings and dialogue sessions.
- Address concerns from community members regarding study activities.
- Support recruitment and retention of study participants.
- Report community feedback to the research leadership for appropriate response.
7. Research Scientist/Study Coordinator
The Study Coordinator will manage the planning, implementation, and monitoring of research studies while providing scientific input and administrative oversight.
Responsibilities:
- Coordinate study logistics including participant recruitment, data collection, and follow-ups.
- Ensure adherence to study protocols and regulatory requirements.
- Supervise field teams and ensure high-quality data collection.
- Manage budgets and resource allocation for project activities.
- Compile and analyze study data and assist with manuscript and report writing.
8. Field Supervisor – Optometrist
This role involves providing oversight for field-based optometry research activities, ensuring that study protocols are properly implemented.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct vision screening and visual acuity assessments.
- Oversee the work of field optometrists and assistants.
- Maintain and calibrate vision screening tools and equipment.
- Train field staff in optometry procedures and data recording.
- Collaborate with study coordinators on scheduling and reporting.
9. Research Scientist (Qualitative)
The Research Scientist (Qualitative) will support research through the design, implementation, and analysis of qualitative components of health studies.
Responsibilities:
- Design qualitative data collection tools and guides.
- Conduct interviews, focus group discussions, and observations.
- Perform thematic and content analysis using qualitative software.
- Document and disseminate findings through reports and academic writing.
- Train field assistants on qualitative methods and ethical considerations.
10. Study Nurse
The Study Nurse will provide clinical support and ensure participant safety and protocol adherence in health-related research studies.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct participant screening and obtain informed consent.
- Administer medications and conduct clinical procedures per protocol.
- Monitor participant health and manage adverse events.
- Maintain accurate medical and study records.
- Participate in staff training and quality assurance audits.
11. Optometrist
The Optometrist will be responsible for conducting eye examinations, diagnosing vision problems, and prescribing corrective lenses within the research study framework.
Responsibilities:
- Perform comprehensive eye exams on study participants.
- Document clinical findings and recommend treatment as needed.
- Support training of study personnel in vision assessment techniques.
- Ensure the integrity of optometry-related data.
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals in the research team.
12. Ophthalmic Nurse/Ophthalmic Clinical Officer
The Ophthalmic Nurse/Clinical Officer will provide specialized nursing or clinical services in eye care and participate in data collection for ophthalmic research studies.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct eye health assessments and administer eye care treatments.
- Provide education to participants on eye health and disease prevention.
- Assist in minor eye procedures and treatment compliance monitoring.
- Support data entry and record keeping related to clinical findings.
- Ensure infection control and safety during clinical procedures.
13. Senior Laboratory Analyst
The Senior Laboratory Analyst will oversee laboratory operations and conduct advanced testing and analysis in support of scientific research.
Responsibilities:
- Supervise laboratory technologists and other lab personnel.
- Perform complex biochemical, microbiological, or molecular tests.
- Validate and interpret laboratory data for reporting.
- Maintain quality control and compliance with lab standards.
- Manage inventory and ensure timely procurement of laboratory supplies.
14. Laboratory Technologist
The Laboratory Technologist will carry out routine and specialized laboratory procedures as part of the research and diagnostic services.
Responsibilities:
- Collect, label, and process biological samples.
- Conduct laboratory tests following established protocols.
- Ensure accuracy and quality in test results.
- Maintain lab equipment and ensure proper waste disposal.
- Assist in data entry and preparation of laboratory reports.
