The Kenya Medical Research Institute is a national institution established to conduct health research that contributes to improved human health and quality of life. The Institute undertakes biomedical, clinical, epidemiological, and public health research, working closely with national and international partners to generate evidence that informs policy, strengthens health systems, and supports disease prevention and control.
To support its expanding research portfolio and institutional operations, the Institute periodically recruits professionals across diverse disciplines. The current recruitment cycle focuses on contract-based appointments aligned to specific research projects and operational needs. Successful candidates will work in structured, multidisciplinary environments that emphasize ethical conduct, accountability, scientific rigor, and operational efficiency.
These roles offer an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to nationally relevant research initiatives while supporting the Institute’s mandate of advancing science for public health impact.
Vacancies
Medical Officer
Role Overview
• Supports delivery of clinical services within research settings while ensuring participant safety, ethical compliance, and high standards of medical care in line with approved study protocols.
Key Duties
• Provides clinical assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care to research participants.
• Oversees clinical aspects of research studies to ensure compliance with ethical and regulatory requirements.
• Documents medical findings, adverse events, and safety reports accurately and in a timely manner.
• Collaborates with multidisciplinary research teams to support effective implementation of clinical studies.
ICT Assistant
Role Overview
• Supports information and communication technology operations to ensure reliable systems that enable research activities, data management, and administrative functions.
Key Duties
• Provides first-line technical support for computers, networks, and peripheral devices.
• Installs, configures, and maintains ICT hardware and software in accordance with institutional standards.
• Supports digital data collection and research information systems.
• Maintains ICT inventories and documents system issues and resolutions.
Office Assistant
Role Overview
• Provides general administrative and operational support to ensure efficient day-to-day functioning of offices and research facilities.
Key Duties
• Supports filing, record keeping, and document management activities.
• Maintains cleanliness and orderliness of offices, meeting rooms, and shared spaces.
• Assists with logistical arrangements for meetings and official events.
• Performs routine clerical tasks including photocopying and document dispatch.
Clinical Officer
Role Overview
• Supports clinical service delivery within research and healthcare environments, contributing to participant care and study implementation.
Key Duties
• Conducts patient assessments and administers treatments in line with approved protocols.
• Supports participant recruitment, screening, enrollment, and follow-up.
• Records and maintains accurate clinical and research data.
• Identifies and reports adverse events and protocol deviations.
Research Assistants
Role Overview
• Support implementation of research studies through data collection, participant engagement, and coordination of field and facility-based activities.
Key Duties
• Supports participant recruitment, informed consent, and follow-up processes.
• Collects quantitative and qualitative data using approved tools and methodologies.
• Assists with sample collection, labeling, and documentation.
• Maintains accurate study records and supports preparation of study reports.
Postdoctoral Research Associate – Nairobi
Role Overview
• Supports advanced scientific research activities, contributing to data analysis, knowledge generation, and dissemination of research findings.
Key Duties
• Conducts research aligned with programme objectives and approved study designs.
• Analyzes and interprets research data to generate scientific outputs.
• Prepares manuscripts, technical reports, and presentations for dissemination.
• Supports mentorship and supervision of junior researchers.
Senior Research Scientist – Nairobi
Role Overview
• Provides scientific leadership in the design, implementation, and delivery of high-quality research programmes and outputs.
Key Duties
• Leads development and execution of research studies and projects.
• Provides technical oversight and guidance to research teams.
• Interprets, validates, and reviews research data and findings.
• Supports publication and dissemination of scientific outputs.
Senior Research Administrator – CPHR, Nairobi
Role Overview
• Supports coordination and administration of research programmes to ensure effective operational management and regulatory compliance.
Key Duties
• Coordinates administrative processes supporting research projects and programmes.
• Manages research documentation, approvals, and reporting requirements.
• Supports budgeting, expenditure tracking, and administrative reporting.
• Liaises with investigators, finance teams, and support units to ensure smooth research operations.
