The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a premier government research institution dedicated to improving human health through research, capacity building, and service delivery in the field of medical sciences. As part of its mission to develop human resources and contribute to Kenya’s scientific advancement, KEMRI is currently seeking to recruit qualified, dynamic, and self-motivated individuals to join its teams across various locations.
This recruitment round includes opportunities for professionals, post-doctoral researchers, students, and community-based personnel. The positions are based at KEMRI’s Kilifi and Kisumu centres and cut across contract and internship appointments.
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the available positions, job details, and application deadlines.
1. Early Post-Doctoral Mathematics Modeller – Kilifi
Vacancy No.: VN00851
Category: Contract
Location: Kilifi
Number of Positions: 1
Deadline: August 12, 2025, by 5:00 PM
Job Description:
The Early Post-Doctoral Mathematics Modeller will work with KEMRI’s mathematical modelling research team based in Kilifi. The role is designed for candidates who have recently completed their doctoral studies and are seeking to advance their careers through cutting-edge research in infectious disease modelling, health metrics, and public health policy.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, develop, and validate mathematical models of infectious disease transmission dynamics.
- Analyze epidemiological datasets and generate insights to inform disease control strategies.
- Contribute to research publications, policy briefs, and dissemination of findings at national and international conferences.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams comprising epidemiologists, statisticians, immunologists, and public health practitioners.
- Engage in capacity building through mentorship of junior researchers and participation in training activities.
- Work under supervision while progressively developing independence in research planning and implementation.
Preferred Areas of Modelling Expertise May Include:
- Malaria transmission and control
- COVID-19 and respiratory virus spread
- Vaccine impact modelling
- Non-communicable disease trends in LMIC settings
- Health system modelling and cost-effectiveness analysis
This role offers a unique opportunity to develop a career in global health modelling, while contributing directly to public health initiatives in Kenya and beyond.
2. PhD Studentship – KEMRI CGHR Kisumu
Vacancy No.: VN00852
Category: Internship / Studentship
Location: Kisumu
Number of Positions: 1
Deadline: August 26, 2025, by 5:00 PM
Job Description:
KEMRI, through its Centre for Global Health Research (CGHR) in Kisumu, is inviting applications for a PhD studentship position. This role is intended for an early-career researcher who seeks to enroll in and pursue a PhD programme focused on public health, epidemiology, medical microbiology, or a related field, with a research project anchored within KEMRI’s scientific work.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute a high-impact research project in line with KEMRI’s ongoing studies and thematic research areas.
- Conduct literature reviews, develop protocols, seek ethical approvals, and manage field and laboratory work.
- Collect, clean, and analyze quantitative or qualitative data as per the research objectives.
- Collaborate with supervisors, research teams, and external stakeholders to refine study methodologies and ensure adherence to best research practices.
- Prepare and submit manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
- Present findings in internal review meetings and external scientific forums.
This studentship provides hands-on experience within a dynamic research environment and is ideal for candidates seeking to integrate academic growth with practical public health contributions in Western Kenya.
3. Community Tracker – Kisumu
Vacancy No.: VN00853
Category: Contract
Location: Kisumu
Number of Positions: 6
Grade: KMR 07
Deadline: August 26, 2025, by 5:00 PM
Job Description:
The Community Tracker position is integral to the success of KEMRI’s field-based research initiatives. The role entails close interaction with study participants and community stakeholders to support longitudinal follow-up and ensure data completeness, accuracy, and participant retention.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct participant tracing and follow-up visits in the assigned catchment areas.
- Update participant contact and locator information, ensuring confidentiality and data integrity.
- Liaise with local community health volunteers (CHVs), chiefs, and village elders to facilitate smooth field operations.
- Administer structured tracking forms and capture data using paper-based or electronic systems.
- Maintain accurate field records and promptly report challenges related to participant tracing.
- Support community sensitization activities and ensure participants understand study procedures.
- Refer participants to study clinics for sample collection or scheduled visits where necessary.
- Adhere to all ethical and operational protocols related to participant engagement and research conduct.
- Submit regular progress reports to the field coordinator or team leader.
This position is suited for individuals who have strong interpersonal skills, are familiar with Kisumu’s local geography and community dynamics, and can thrive in fieldwork settings. Successful candidates will undergo induction and field-based orientation prior to deployment.
Application Instructions
Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the respective deadlines as indicated above. Each position requires a distinct application referencing the vacancy number.
Applicants should ensure their applications include the following:
- A detailed CV with current contact information
- A cover letter stating the position applied for and summarizing suitability
- Copies of academic certificates and professional certifications (where applicable)
- Contacts of at least three referees
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Any form of canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.
For further details regarding each position, visit the KEMRI careers page or contact the respective program offices through official communication channels.
Applications should be submitted via email to:
[email protected]
Ensure to include the Vacancy Number in the subject line of the email when applying.
KEMRI is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace and encourages applications from qualified persons regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability status, or background. Female candidates and individuals from marginalized areas are especially encouraged to apply.
All successful applicants will be expected to observe high standards of ethical conduct and professionalism, and those appointed to contract roles may be subject to renewal based on performance and availability of project funding.
For a fulfilling and impactful career in medical research and community health, consider joining KEMRI’s team of innovators and health professionals committed to changing lives through science.
Note: All positions close strictly at 5:00 PM on the dates listed. Late applications will not be considered.
