The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is one of the country’s foremost institutions in medical research, playing a crucial role in improving the health of Kenyans through innovative research, capacity building, and policy development. In pursuit of its mission to improve human health and quality of life through research, KEMRI invites applications from qualified, motivated, and passionate individuals for a variety of roles within its Nairobi-based programs. These opportunities offer the chance to work alongside dedicated teams focused on public health, clinical trials, disease prevention, and community interventions.
The positions range from internships to professional contract roles in nursing, nutrition, clinical practice, and research. These roles will be instrumental in supporting KEMRI’s research and service delivery functions in collaboration with local and international stakeholders. The institute offers an inclusive and dynamic environment that supports professional development, innovation, and scientific excellence.
Below are the details of the current vacancies:
1. Nurse – Nairobi (Vacancy No. VN00844)
Terms of Engagement: Contract
Number of Positions: 2
Application Deadline: August 4, 2025, by 5:00 PM
Job Description
The Nurse will support various clinical and research activities within ongoing public health programs and studies. The ideal candidate will be stationed in Nairobi and will work closely with clinical and research teams to provide nursing care and assist with clinical trials and data collection activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Administer nursing care to study participants, including monitoring of vital signs and management of minor medical conditions under supervision.
- Ensure the proper collection, labeling, and transportation of biological samples in accordance with study protocols.
- Assist in screening and enrolling participants, obtaining informed consent, and ensuring compliance with study procedures.
- Maintain accurate clinical records, study forms, and documentation as required by Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.
- Participate in community outreach and education sessions where necessary.
- Work collaboratively with medical officers, clinical officers, and data teams to ensure quality care and efficient data flow.
- Report adverse events and ensure proper follow-up and documentation in line with protocol and ethical standards.
- Maintain confidentiality and ensure ethical handling of participant information at all times.
2. Nutrition Intern – KEMRI CPHR (Vacancy No. VN00845)
Terms of Engagement: Internship
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: July 21, 2025, by 5:00 PM
Job Description
The Nutrition Intern will be attached to the Centre for Public Health Research (CPHR) and will be expected to support various nutrition research programs, community surveys, and data management functions. This internship offers a valuable opportunity for early-career nutritionists to gain hands-on experience in a professional and research-focused environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in planning and implementing nutrition surveys and dietary assessments.
- Support data entry, data cleaning, and basic analysis related to nutrition indicators.
- Participate in community engagement activities and mobilization for fieldwork.
- Help conduct anthropometric measurements and other nutritional assessments.
- Aid in the preparation of reports, presentations, and policy briefs.
- Work with the research team in literature reviews and development of data collection tools.
- Ensure adherence to ethical standards during data collection and interaction with research participants.
- Perform any other tasks assigned by the supervisor or research lead.
3. Registered Clinical Officer – Nairobi (Vacancy No. VN00846)
Terms of Engagement: Contract
Grade: KMR 08
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: August 4, 2025, by 5:00 PM
Job Description
The Registered Clinical Officer will provide essential clinical services to research participants and patients enrolled in health studies. Based in Nairobi, this role involves clinical diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of participants, and works closely with the principal investigator and study coordinators.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct clinical examinations, diagnose conditions, and provide treatment in accordance with national and study guidelines.
- Screen and enroll eligible participants into clinical studies after obtaining informed consent.
- Collect medical history, perform physical assessments, and complete study forms with accuracy.
- Oversee the administration of investigational drugs or interventions as per study protocol.
- Monitor participants for adverse events and report them promptly with appropriate documentation.
- Support the coordination of participant follow-up, referrals, and linkage to healthcare services.
- Collaborate with nurses, laboratory staff, and data teams to maintain high-quality data and clinical care.
- Participate in training sessions and ensure adherence to GCP and ethical research standards.
- Maintain strict confidentiality and ensure secure handling of participant information and study materials.
4. Research Assistant – Nairobi (Vacancy No. VN00847)
Terms of Engagement: Contract
Grade: KMR 07
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: August 4, 2025, by 5:00 PM
Job Description
The Research Assistant will support the implementation of field and clinical research activities in line with project goals. This role involves direct interaction with study participants, data collection, and coordination of field logistics.
Key Responsibilities
- Recruit and consent participants in accordance with ethical research practices.
- Collect data using structured questionnaires, mobile tools, or electronic data collection platforms.
- Support follow-up visits and ensure timely tracking of participants.
- Assist in data entry, cleaning, and storage using project-approved systems.
- Ensure completeness, accuracy, and integrity of data collected in the field.
- Participate in pre-testing of tools and assist in tool refinement.
- Conduct interviews, focus groups, and other qualitative research activities as required.
- Provide regular updates and field reports to the project coordinator or principal investigator.
- Ensure compliance with research protocols and institutional standards at all times.
These roles represent exciting opportunities to work with a dynamic team of researchers and public health professionals at one of Africa’s leading medical research institutions. Each role is tailored to individuals passionate about healthcare, community development, and scientific inquiry, offering room for professional growth and contribution to meaningful public health outcomes.
Whether you are a licensed clinical professional looking to join a dedicated healthcare team or a student seeking practical experience in public health and nutrition, KEMRI offers a supportive environment and the chance to work on cutting-edge research projects that directly impact communities.
How to Apply
To be considered for any of the above positions, please visit the official KEMRI careers portal at https://erecruitment.kemri.go.ke and submit your application by the specified deadline.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Successful applicants will be expected to adhere to KEMRI’s values, policies, and ethical guidelines.
