Are you a visionary leader in health research, driven to shape the future of science and public health in Africa and beyond? Do you possess the strategic insight and scientific gravitas to lead one of the continent’s most renowned research institutions? The KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP) is seeking a new Director to guide the organisation into its next phase of excellence.
This is a rare opportunity to lead a flagship programme with an unparalleled legacy of impactful health research. Based in Kenya and supported by a tri-partite collaboration between the University of Oxford, the Wellcome Trust, and the Kenyan Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), KWTRP has, since 1989, contributed significantly to scientific advancement and public health across East Africa and globally.
With state-of-the-art facilities, a vibrant multicultural team, and a robust platform for training and mentorship, the programme stands at the forefront of global research on infectious diseases and health systems. Now, we are seeking a Director who will not only maintain this exceptional track record but also accelerate growth, expand partnerships, and further deepen KWTRP’s impact in Africa and the world.
About the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP)
KWTRP is headquartered in Kilifi, a coastal town in Kenya, with additional offices in Nairobi. It is one of three Wellcome-funded Major International Programmes under the Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford — alongside MORU in Thailand and OUCRU in Vietnam. KWTRP provides a dynamic and supportive environment for world-class research into human infectious diseases, public health, clinical trials, epidemiology, and health systems strengthening.
The programme is internationally recognised for its scientific contributions, capacity building, and its strong commitment to the development of African researchers and health professionals.
Position: Director, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme
Location: Kenya (Kilifi and Nairobi)
Organisation: University of Oxford / KWTRP
Sector: Health & Life Sciences, Research, Technology & Innovation
Salary & Benefits: Commensurate with experience
Closing Date: Sunday, 6th July 2025, 09:00 BST
Formal Interview Date: To be confirmed
Role Overview
As the Director, you will be the scientific and strategic leader of KWTRP. This pivotal role carries full responsibility for overseeing the programme’s operations, people, and research outputs, ensuring its continued relevance, growth, and international excellence.
You will report into the Nuffield Department of Medicine and serve as a senior academic leader within the University of Oxford, while also aligning with local governance and stakeholders in Kenya. Your mission will be to maintain KWTRP’s world-class status and leverage its potential for greater impact on health outcomes across Africa and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
- Scientific and Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute a long-term academic strategy that reflects KWTRP’s vision and goals.
- Ensure the programme continues to produce internationally recognised research and publications.
- Lead the scientific agenda across diverse domains including infectious diseases, global health, and clinical sciences.
- Programme Management
- Oversee all operational, scientific, and financial aspects of the programme.
- Manage a diverse team of over 800 local and international staff spread across multiple Kenyan locations.
- Promote a healthy and inclusive research environment that encourages innovation, teamwork, and equity.
- Capacity Building and Mentorship
- Strengthen the pipeline of African researchers by fostering academic training, mentorship, and leadership development.
- Build partnerships with African universities and global institutions to expand collaborative opportunities.
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Represent KWTRP with external partners, funders, and regulatory agencies.
- Strengthen ties with KEMRI, Wellcome, the University of Oxford, and other key stakeholders.
- Financial Stewardship
- Ensure strong financial governance and oversee multi-source research funding.
- Lead fundraising efforts and align financial planning with scientific goals.
Candidate Profile
We are seeking a visionary, strategic, and collaborative leader with a profound commitment to global health. The successful candidate will bring:
- A strong international reputation for research in a relevant field (e.g. infectious diseases, public health, epidemiology, clinical research).
- A track record of high-impact publications and success in securing major research grants.
- Experience in managing large, complex research organisations in low- or middle-income settings.
- Demonstrated ability to build and lead multicultural, multidisciplinary teams.
- Deep understanding of global health challenges and African research ecosystems.
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, capable of inspiring internal teams and external stakeholders alike.
We are especially keen to receive applications from candidates based in Kenya and the wider African region.
Diversity and Inclusion
KWTRP and its partners are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from under-represented groups.
Our recruitment partner, Perrett Laver, also shares this commitment to equality and diversity. We believe that excellence is best achieved by valuing and recognising the contributions of every individual.
How to Apply
To explore this exceptional opportunity further, please visit the Perrett Laver website to access the full candidate brochure and apply online. You may also request more information via their platform.
Applications should be submitted by 09:00 BST on Sunday 6th July 2025.
For an informal and confidential conversation about the role, please contact Annabel Holt at:
[email protected]
Apply Now
Take this unique opportunity to lead one of Africa’s most prestigious health research institutions and drive forward life-saving science that benefits millions across the continent and the world.
