The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a state corporation mandated with carrying out health research in Kenya. The institute plays a crucial role in generating scientific knowledge, guiding public health policy, and advancing medical research across various health disciplines. KEMRI is currently inviting applications from qualified individuals for multiple positions in Kisumu and Mtwapa. These roles span research, laboratory work, data management, healthcare, and administrative support.
Each position offers an opportunity to contribute to critical health research and healthcare delivery while working with a team of dedicated professionals in a dynamic environment. The details of the positions are outlined below.
PhD Studentship – KEMRI CGHR Kisumu
Employment Type: Internship
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: 26 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
The PhD Studentship at the Centre for Global Health Research (CGHR) in Kisumu offers a unique opportunity for an aspiring researcher to develop advanced academic and research skills. The successful candidate will undertake a doctoral research project aligned with the institute’s ongoing scientific studies. The role involves developing a detailed research proposal, conducting field and laboratory work, analyzing data, and contributing to peer-reviewed publications. The student will also be expected to engage with research collaborators and present findings at scientific conferences.
Community Tracker – Kisumu
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 6
Job Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: 26 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
The Community Tracker will support field activities by identifying, enrolling, and following up with study participants within designated communities. The role requires maintaining accurate records of participant interactions, ensuring compliance with study protocols, and liaising between community members and research teams. The position also involves mobilization, health education, and facilitating participant retention in research studies. Close collaboration with field coordinators, data teams, and community leaders will be essential.
Early Post-Doctoral Researcher – Yellow Fever
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: 24 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
This role focuses on conducting advanced research into Yellow Fever epidemiology, diagnostics, and vaccine development. The researcher will design and implement laboratory experiments, analyze data, and contribute to publications and policy briefs. The position also includes mentoring junior research staff, writing grant applications, and collaborating with both local and international research partners.
Assistant Research Officer – Genomics and Bioinformatics
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: 24 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
The Assistant Research Officer in Genomics and Bioinformatics will work on genomic sequencing projects, bioinformatics analyses, and data interpretation. Responsibilities include sample preparation, sequencing workflows, development of bioinformatics pipelines, and preparation of research manuscripts. The role also involves database management and supporting collaborative projects with other research groups.
Early Post-Doctoral Researcher – Serosurveillance
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: 24 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
This role will lead research on serosurveillance activities to monitor population immunity against priority pathogens. Key tasks include designing surveillance strategies, developing laboratory testing protocols, analyzing serological data, and presenting findings to stakeholders. The researcher will work closely with public health authorities to translate findings into actionable recommendations.
Early Post-Doctoral Researcher
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: 24 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
This position offers an opportunity to undertake independent and collaborative research projects within KEMRI’s scientific programs. Responsibilities include proposal development, data collection and analysis, publication of research findings, and capacity building for junior staff. The role will also require active participation in multidisciplinary research teams.
Accountant – Mtwapa
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Job Grade: KMR 06
Application Deadline: 30 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
The Accountant will manage financial records, prepare financial reports, process payments, and ensure compliance with KEMRI’s financial policies and donor requirements. Duties include budget preparation, expenditure tracking, reconciliation of accounts, and financial auditing support. The position also requires maintaining proper documentation for all transactions.
Data/ICT Assistant – Mtwapa
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Job Grade: KMR 08
Application Deadline: 30 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
The Data/ICT Assistant will provide technical support in data management and ICT systems. Key responsibilities include setting up data collection tools, managing electronic databases, ensuring data quality, and providing hardware and software support to staff. The role may also involve training research teams on data handling protocols and troubleshooting ICT issues.
Office Assistant – Mtwapa
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Job Grade: KMR 12
Application Deadline: 30 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
The Office Assistant will support administrative operations by handling clerical duties, managing correspondence, filing documents, and maintaining office supplies. Other duties include reception work, scheduling appointments, and assisting in the coordination of meetings and events.
Senior Laboratory Technologist – Mtwapa
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 2
Job Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: 30 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
The Senior Laboratory Technologist will oversee laboratory operations, supervise laboratory staff, and ensure quality control in testing procedures. Responsibilities include performing advanced diagnostic tests, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. The role will also involve participation in research activities and preparation of laboratory reports.
Pharmaceutical Technologist – Mtwapa
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Job Grade: KMR 08
Application Deadline: 30 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
The Pharmaceutical Technologist will be responsible for dispensing medications, managing pharmaceutical inventory, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Duties include patient counselling on drug use, maintaining accurate dispensing records, and supporting clinical teams in drug management.
Quality Assurance Officer – Mtwapa
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Job Grade: KMR 06
Application Deadline: 30 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
The Quality Assurance Officer will develop and implement quality management systems to ensure research and clinical activities meet required standards. Tasks include auditing processes, training staff on quality standards, documenting compliance, and recommending improvements. The role will also involve liaising with external auditors and regulatory bodies.
Registered Nurse – Mtwapa
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Job Grade: KMR 08
Application Deadline: 30 August 2025 – 5:00 PM
The Registered Nurse will provide nursing care to patients in line with clinical guidelines. Responsibilities include patient assessment, administration of medications, wound care, health education, and maintenance of patient records. The nurse will work collaboratively with medical teams to ensure quality patient care.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates are advised to apply through the official KEMRI application portal before the stated deadlines for each position. Applications should include a cover letter, detailed curriculum vitae, and any other documents required as per the specific vacancy announcement. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
