The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a distinguished state corporation mandated to conduct health research in Kenya. Established under the Science and Technology (Amendment) Act of 1979, and later redefined under the Science, Technology and Innovation Act of 2013, KEMRI serves as the national research body dedicated to advancing human health through scientific discovery, innovation, and capacity building.
Over the last four decades, KEMRI has evolved from its modest beginnings into a regional powerhouse in human health research. The Institute’s work has positioned it among the leading centers of excellence in Africa and globally, making significant contributions to policy, disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment research. KEMRI’s achievements are built on a foundation of professional integrity, strong research ethics, and an unwavering commitment to scientific excellence.
With a workforce of over 4,000 professionals spread across Kenya, the Institute has fostered an environment that values mentorship, skills development, and innovation. Staff members benefit from a collaborative work culture and opportunities to work on groundbreaking projects that shape health outcomes in Kenya and beyond. The institution has consistently been recognized for its research output and contribution to global health advancements.
As part of its ongoing mission to deliver quality research and services, KEMRI is seeking to recruit dedicated and resourceful individuals to join its team as Office Assistants. This role is crucial in ensuring that operational and administrative functions run smoothly, enabling the Institute’s research teams to focus on their core scientific work.
Position: Office Assistant
The Office Assistant position at KEMRI is designed to provide vital administrative, clerical, and logistical support to various departments. The role requires an individual who is highly organized, service-oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks efficiently. This position also involves maintaining cleanliness, managing office supplies, and ensuring proper handling of documents and communications.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be expected to undertake the following duties:
- Documentation and Records Management
- Prepare and manage sign-in sheets, appointment logs, and visitor records to ensure accurate documentation of office and facility activities.
- Maintain and update records for participant visits, courier shipments, and general office supplies.
- Record, file, and dispatch letters, files, and official documents in accordance with the Institute’s records management procedures.
- Reception and Inquiry Handling
- Handle inquiries from visitors, staff, or external parties in person, by phone, or via email, ensuring they are directed to the appropriate offices or departments.
- Issue visitor badges and maintain updated security logs as part of access control measures.
- Clerical and Communication Support
- Assist in printing, photocopying, scanning, and organizing trial-related forms or documents for various research projects.
- Distribute internal communications such as memos, meeting notices, or administrative updates to the relevant staff.
- Assist in coordinating logistics for meetings, training sessions, or workshops, including arranging refreshments when necessary.
- Office Maintenance and Cleanliness
- Ensure that offices, compounds, and common areas are kept clean and organized at all times.
- Undertake tasks such as cleaning offices, collecting and disposing of waste, and ensuring that workspaces are neat and presentable.
- Outdoor and Grounds Maintenance
- Support the maintenance of the Institute’s outdoor spaces through planting, weeding, and pruning/mowing gardens as required.
- Maintain general tidiness of outdoor areas to provide a welcoming and professional environment.
- Logistical Support for Research Activities
- Coordinate participant transport reimbursements while keeping meticulous records to ensure accuracy and transparency.
- Provide logistical support in preparing venues and materials for study meetings, fieldwork, and training sessions.
- Other Duties as Assigned
- Undertake any other related duties that may arise in the course of work to support the effective running of the Institute’s operations.
Important Information for Applicants
KEMRI emphasizes integrity, transparency, and fairness in its recruitment process. Applicants are reminded that:
- KEMRI does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, shortlisting, interviewing, or job offer.
- Applicants experiencing delays in receiving email notifications after completing the e-recruitment registration process are advised to refresh their email inbox.
This is an opportunity for service-oriented individuals who are committed to supporting one of Africa’s most respected research institutions. The Office Assistant role offers a chance to contribute to a dynamic environment where operational efficiency is vital to achieving groundbreaking health research outcomes.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications through the official online recruitment system. Applicants should ensure that they provide accurate and complete information as required in the application form.
