The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a leading state corporation mandated to conduct health research for the betterment of human health in Kenya. Established in 1979 under the Science and Technology (Amendment) Act and redefined in 2013 under the Science, Technology and Innovation Act, KEMRI has grown into a world-class center of excellence in research, innovation, and capacity building.
Over the decades, KEMRI has spearheaded groundbreaking studies, informed policy decisions, and strengthened Kenya’s role in global health research. With more than 4,000 professionals working across the country, the Institute fosters an environment of collaboration, professional growth, and high ethical standards.
To further its mission, KEMRI is inviting applications from qualified, motivated, and resourceful individuals to fill the following positions.
PhD Studentship – KEMRI CGHR Kisumu
Job Reference: VN00852
Employment Type: Internship
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: August 26, 2025, 5:00 PM
This opportunity is designed for a motivated individual seeking to pursue a doctoral degree in a health research-related field within the KEMRI Center for Global Health Research (CGHR) in Kisumu. The position offers a platform to engage in high-impact research projects while acquiring advanced research skills. The selected candidate will contribute to ongoing research activities, participate in data collection and analysis, and collaborate with senior scientists on peer-reviewed publications. The role is ideal for candidates aiming to advance their expertise in health research and contribute to public health knowledge.
Community Tracker – Kisumu
Job Reference: VN00853
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 6
Job Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: August 26, 2025, 5:00 PM
Community Trackers will be responsible for engaging with communities to collect health-related data, track participants in ongoing studies, and ensure accurate follow-up. The role requires close interaction with study participants, proper documentation of visits, and timely reporting of findings to research teams. Successful candidates will support surveillance activities, contribute to participant retention strategies, and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information. This position plays a vital role in linking research activities with the communities they serve.
Early Post-Doctoral Researcher – Yellow Fever
Job Reference: VN00854
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: August 24, 2025, 5:00 PM
This position involves leading and supporting research activities on Yellow Fever, focusing on surveillance, diagnostics, epidemiology, and vaccine research. The Early Post-Doctoral Researcher will be engaged in designing studies, managing fieldwork, analyzing datasets, and publishing findings. The role offers an opportunity to work closely with a multidisciplinary team, contribute to public health preparedness, and influence policy recommendations related to Yellow Fever control and prevention.
Assistant Research Officer – Genomics and Bioinformatics
Job Reference: VN00855
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: August 24, 2025, 5:00 PM
The Assistant Research Officer will participate in genomic and bioinformatics research activities, including sequencing, data analysis, and interpretation. The role involves working with advanced laboratory and computational tools to study pathogens, identify genetic variations, and support projects aimed at improving diagnostics and treatment. The officer will collaborate with scientists in genomics and epidemiology to advance molecular research that informs disease surveillance and response.
Early Post-Doctoral Researcher – Serosurveillance
Job Reference: VN00856
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: August 24, 2025, 5:00 PM
The Early Post-Doctoral Researcher will focus on serosurveillance studies, collecting and analyzing biological samples to assess immunity levels and disease exposure in populations. The role will contribute to understanding disease transmission patterns and evaluating the effectiveness of vaccination programs. Responsibilities will include study design, data management, scientific writing, and dissemination of results to stakeholders.
Early Post-Doctoral Researcher
Job Reference: VN00857
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: August 24, 2025, 5:00 PM
This role will involve contributing to ongoing research projects within KEMRI, designing new studies, and publishing scientific findings. The researcher will be expected to engage in data collection, analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration to address pressing health challenges. The position provides a platform for career development, mentorship, and participation in high-impact health research initiatives.
Accountant – Mtwapa
Job Reference: VN00858
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Job Grade: KMR 06
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025, 5:00 PM
The Accountant will be responsible for financial management functions at KEMRI’s Mtwapa center. Duties include preparing financial statements, managing budgets, processing payments, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. The position requires maintaining accurate financial records, preparing reports for management, and supporting audits. This role is essential for ensuring sound financial stewardship of project funds and institutional resources.
Data/ICT Assistant – Mtwapa
Job Reference: VN00859
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Job Grade: KMR 08
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025, 5:00 PM
Data/ICT Assistants will support data management and information technology functions. Responsibilities include database administration, troubleshooting ICT issues, ensuring data security, and assisting research teams with data entry, cleaning, and analysis. The role contributes to efficient data flow and the integrity of information systems critical to research activities.
Office Assistant – Mtwapa
Job Reference: VN00860
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Job Grade: KMR 12
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025, 5:00 PM
Office Assistants will provide administrative and logistical support to ensure smooth daily operations at the Mtwapa center. Duties include handling correspondence, maintaining filing systems, assisting with meeting preparations, and supporting general office functions. This position plays a key role in maintaining an organized and efficient work environment for staff and researchers.
Senior Laboratory Technologist – Mtwapa
Job Reference: VN00861
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 2
Job Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025, 5:00 PM
Senior Laboratory Technologists will oversee laboratory operations, ensure quality control, and supervise laboratory staff. They will be involved in sample processing, diagnostic testing, and maintaining laboratory equipment. The role includes ensuring adherence to biosafety standards and supporting research teams in generating accurate and reliable laboratory results.
Pharmaceutical Technologist – Mtwapa
Job Reference: VN00862
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Job Grade: KMR 08
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025, 5:00 PM
The Pharmaceutical Technologist will be responsible for dispensing medication, managing pharmaceutical inventory, and providing guidance on drug usage. This role ensures that medications are stored appropriately, prescriptions are accurately filled, and patients receive correct instructions for usage.
Quality Assurance Officer – Mtwapa
Job Reference: VN00863
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Job Grade: KMR 06
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025, 5:00 PM
Quality Assurance Officers will develop, implement, and monitor quality systems to ensure compliance with research protocols and regulatory standards. The role involves auditing processes, training staff on quality procedures, and addressing non-conformities. These officers play a critical role in maintaining the credibility and reliability of KEMRI’s research outputs.
