The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), through its dedicated research arm, EMRI, invites applications from qualified and motivated individuals for a wide range of career opportunities. Established in 1979 under the Science and Technology (Amendment) Act and now operating under the Science, Technology and Innovation Act 2013, KEMRI has developed into one of Africa’s most respected health research institutions. Over the past four decades, it has contributed significantly to medical research, public health advancement, and policy formulation.
KEMRI remains committed to developing innovative research solutions to address national, regional, and global health challenges. The organization is currently seeking to recruit individuals across different categories of employment, including contract, internship, and pensionable opportunities.
The following sections provide comprehensive details of the active job vacancies, the responsibilities attached to each role, and application deadlines. Interested candidates are encouraged to carefully review the job descriptions and apply before the stipulated closing dates.
Active Job Vacancies
1. Study Coordinator – Kisumu (Job Reference VN00868)
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: September 17, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Job Grade: KMR 05
Job Description:
The Study Coordinator will provide oversight and management for specific research studies based in Kisumu. This position will involve coordinating study protocols, managing research teams, and ensuring compliance with ethical and institutional requirements. Key responsibilities include:
- Coordinating the planning, initiation, and execution of assigned research studies.
- Supervising field and clinical teams to ensure accuracy and efficiency in study activities.
- Ensuring compliance with institutional review board approvals and ethical standards.
- Monitoring progress, preparing study reports, and presenting findings to senior researchers.
- Managing logistical aspects such as participant recruitment, data quality assurance, and study documentation.
- Liaising with investigators, sponsors, and regulatory authorities to ensure smooth study implementation.
2. Data Manager – Kisumu (Job Reference VN00869)
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: September 17, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Job Grade: KMR 05
Job Description:
The Data Manager will be responsible for the development, maintenance, and oversight of databases used in research studies in Kisumu. The role requires meticulous attention to detail and a strong understanding of research data management. Key responsibilities include:
- Designing, creating, and managing study databases and data entry systems.
- Conducting data validation and cleaning to ensure integrity and accuracy.
- Managing secure storage and retrieval of sensitive research data.
- Preparing data sets for statistical analysis and supporting research teams with data queries.
- Training research assistants and data clerks on data handling procedures.
- Generating routine and ad hoc data reports to support study progress monitoring.
3. PhD Studentship – Kisumu (Job Reference VN00871)
Employment Type: Internship/Studentship
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: September 17, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Job Description:
The PhD Studentship offers a unique research training opportunity for a doctoral student based in Kisumu. The successful candidate will participate in cutting-edge health research under the supervision of senior scientists while developing independent research skills. Responsibilities include:
- Conducting literature reviews and supporting protocol development.
- Collecting and analyzing data as part of the student’s doctoral thesis.
- Preparing manuscripts, progress reports, and presentations.
- Participating in research seminars, training workshops, and collaborative meetings.
- Contributing to knowledge dissemination activities at community and policy levels.
4. Assistant Coordinators – Nairobi (Job Reference VN00872)
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Application Deadline: September 23, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Job Grade: KMR 05
Job Description:
Assistant Coordinators will support the coordination and implementation of ongoing research activities in Nairobi. They will provide operational and administrative support to ensure that projects run smoothly. Responsibilities include:
- Assisting in the day-to-day management of study operations.
- Supporting field staff with logistics, scheduling, and resource allocation.
- Monitoring adherence to study protocols and reporting deviations.
- Assisting in preparation of reports, minutes, and study documentation.
- Facilitating communication between researchers, community stakeholders, and project sponsors.
5. Procurement Officer – Nairobi (Job Reference VN00873)
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: September 23, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Job Grade: KMR 05
Job Description:
The Procurement Officer will ensure effective and transparent procurement processes to support research operations. This role is based in Nairobi and requires knowledge of procurement regulations and organizational compliance. Responsibilities include:
- Managing procurement processes from requisition to contract award.
- Ensuring compliance with organizational procurement policies and donor requirements.
- Preparing tender documents, bid evaluations, and purchase orders.
- Maintaining supplier relationships and evaluating vendor performance.
- Overseeing inventory control and asset management related to procurement.
- Generating procurement reports and advising management on cost-effective sourcing.
6. Senior Administrative Officer – KEMRI CPHR (Job Reference VN00874)
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: October 1, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Job Grade: KMR 05
Job Description:
The Senior Administrative Officer will oversee administrative operations at the Centre for Public Health Research (CPHR). This role will ensure that human resources, logistics, and office support systems operate efficiently. Key responsibilities include:
- Supervising administrative staff and delegating responsibilities.
- Coordinating office operations, including procurement and record management.
- Managing correspondence, official documentation, and filing systems.
- Supporting financial administration, including preparation of budgets and expenditure monitoring.
- Ensuring compliance with institutional policies and procedures.
- Liaising with internal departments and external partners on administrative matters.
7. Senior Engineering Technologist – Kisumu (Job Reference VN00875)
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: October 1, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Job Grade: KMR 07
Job Description:
The Senior Engineering Technologist will provide technical support to laboratory and field research facilities in Kisumu. This role requires expertise in engineering systems and maintenance. Responsibilities include:
- Managing installation, operation, and maintenance of research equipment.
- Supervising junior technologists and technicians.
- Designing, testing, and adapting engineering systems to meet research needs.
- Troubleshooting technical issues to minimize downtime of laboratory operations.
- Advising on procurement of equipment and technical specifications.
- Preparing technical reports and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
8. Receptionist – Kisumu (Job Reference VN00876)
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: October 1, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Job Grade: KMR 07
Job Description:
The Receptionist will be responsible for front-office operations and first-line communication with staff, visitors, and external stakeholders. Key responsibilities include:
- Managing the reception desk and handling incoming calls.
- Greeting and directing visitors to appropriate offices.
- Maintaining visitor records and appointment schedules.
- Handling incoming and outgoing mail and courier services.
- Supporting administrative functions, such as filing and office supplies management.
- Ensuring the reception area reflects a professional image of the organization.
9. Cleaner/Messenger – Kisumu (Job Reference VN00877)
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: October 1, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Job Grade: KMR 09
Job Description:
The Cleaner/Messenger will support the maintenance of hygiene and provide messenger services within the Kisumu offices. Responsibilities include:
- Cleaning offices, laboratories, and common areas to maintain high hygiene standards.
- Ensuring waste disposal is conducted according to institutional procedures.
- Preparing and serving refreshments when required.
- Collecting and delivering documents, parcels, and messages.
- Supporting staff in minor office tasks when requested.
- Maintaining supplies of cleaning materials and reporting needs to the supervisor.
10. Research Assistant – Nairobi (Job Reference VN00878)
Employment Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Application Deadline: October 5, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Job Grade: KMR 06
Job Description:
The Research Assistant will provide support to research projects in Nairobi through data collection, field coordination, and preliminary analysis. Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting in preparation of research tools and study materials.
- Collecting quantitative and qualitative data from study participants.
- Conducting interviews, focus group discussions, and surveys.
- Ensuring ethical standards are followed during data collection.
- Entering and verifying data for accuracy and completeness.
- Supporting the preparation of reports, presentations, and dissemination activities.
