Careers at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)
The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is inviting qualified and motivated applicants to apply for several exciting career opportunities across different departments and research programs. As one of Kenya’s leading medical research institutions, KEMRI plays a critical role in advancing scientific research, improving healthcare outcomes, and strengthening public health systems in Kenya and beyond.
These opportunities are available on contract and fellowship terms, offering professionals and researchers the chance to contribute to impactful health research initiatives while developing their careers in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
Below are the currently advertised positions.
Open Job Vacancies at KEMRI
1. Laboratory Technologist – Kisumu
Reference: VN00913
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: 19 March 2026
Job Description
The Laboratory Technologist will support laboratory-based research and diagnostic activities within KEMRI programs based in Kisumu. The role focuses on ensuring accurate laboratory testing, maintaining laboratory standards, and supporting research projects.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting laboratory tests and procedures according to established protocols
- Preparing laboratory samples, reagents, and equipment for testing
- Recording and maintaining accurate laboratory data and documentation
- Ensuring proper storage and handling of specimens and laboratory materials
- Supporting quality control processes to maintain high laboratory standards
- Maintaining laboratory equipment and reporting faults when necessary
- Adhering to biosafety and infection prevention guidelines
- Assisting researchers in laboratory-based studies and investigations
2. Data Clerk – Kisumu
Reference: VN00914
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: 19 March 2026
Job Description
The Data Clerk will support data management activities within ongoing research programs. The role focuses on maintaining accurate records and ensuring that research data is captured, verified, and stored appropriately.
Key responsibilities include:
- Entering research data into electronic databases and systems
- Reviewing data for accuracy and completeness
- Maintaining proper documentation and data records
- Supporting data verification and validation processes
- Organizing and maintaining research files and documents
- Assisting research teams in retrieving and compiling data reports
- Ensuring confidentiality and security of research information
- Supporting routine administrative tasks related to data management
3. Data Manager
Reference: VN00915
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 05
Application Deadline: 23 March 2026
Job Description
The Data Manager will oversee data management processes for research projects, ensuring that all research data is accurate, secure, and compliant with established data management standards.
Key responsibilities include:
- Developing and maintaining data management systems for research programs
- Supervising data collection, storage, and validation processes
- Ensuring integrity and security of research datasets
- Managing databases used in research projects
- Preparing data reports and summaries for research teams
- Implementing data quality assurance procedures
- Supporting statistical analysis by organizing and preparing datasets
- Coordinating with research teams to improve data management processes
4. Finance & Administration Officer
Reference: VN00916
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 06
Application Deadline: 23 March 2026
Job Description
The Finance and Administration Officer will provide financial and administrative support to research programs and institutional operations.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting budgeting and financial planning activities
- Processing financial transactions and maintaining financial records
- Preparing financial reports and supporting audits
- Monitoring project expenditures and financial compliance
- Managing procurement and administrative documentation
- Coordinating logistics for meetings, workshops, and research activities
- Supporting general office administration functions
- Ensuring compliance with financial policies and procedures
5. Personal Assistant & Operations Coordinator
Reference: VN00917
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: 23 March 2026
Job Description
The Personal Assistant & Operations Coordinator will provide executive-level administrative and operational support to senior leadership within the institution.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing schedules, meetings, and appointments for senior management
- Coordinating internal and external communications
- Preparing reports, presentations, and documentation
- Organizing meetings, travel arrangements, and official events
- Supporting operational planning and coordination activities
- Maintaining records and confidential documents
- Ensuring smooth day-to-day administrative operations
6. Receptionist
Reference: VN00918
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: 25 March 2026
Job Description
The Receptionist will serve as the first point of contact for visitors and stakeholders and will support general administrative functions.
Key responsibilities include:
- Receiving and directing visitors and clients
- Managing incoming calls and correspondence
- Maintaining reception area records and visitor logs
- Providing administrative support to departments
- Coordinating mail distribution and courier services
- Assisting with meeting arrangements and office coordination
- Maintaining a professional and welcoming environment
7. Executive Office Associate (Operations)
Reference: VN00919
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 05
Application Deadline: 25 March 2026
Job Description
The Executive Office Associate will support operational activities within the executive office and assist in coordinating institutional programs and initiatives.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting the implementation of operational plans and initiatives
- Coordinating activities across departments and research units
- Preparing reports and operational documentation
- Assisting with monitoring and tracking institutional programs
- Facilitating communication between departments
- Supporting administrative tasks within the executive office
8. Administrative and Regulatory Affairs Officer
Reference: VN00920
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 06
Application Deadline: 25 March 2026
Job Description
The Administrative and Regulatory Affairs Officer will support regulatory compliance and administrative functions related to research activities.
Key responsibilities include:
- Coordinating regulatory submissions and approvals
- Maintaining documentation for research compliance requirements
- Supporting institutional regulatory processes
- Monitoring adherence to regulatory standards and policies
- Liaising with internal departments on compliance matters
- Supporting administrative coordination of research programs
9. Laboratory Technologist – Homabay
Reference: VN00921
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: 25 March 2026
Job Description
The Laboratory Technologist will provide laboratory support for research and diagnostic activities conducted in Homabay.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting laboratory tests according to research protocols
- Preparing samples and maintaining laboratory supplies
- Ensuring laboratory safety and quality control procedures
- Maintaining laboratory records and documentation
- Supporting researchers in laboratory investigations
- Assisting in equipment maintenance and calibration
10. Baby Minder – Kisumu
Reference: VN00922
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 09
Application Deadline: 26 March 2026
Job Description
The Baby Minder will support childcare services within the research environment, ensuring the safety and well-being of infants and young children involved in research programs.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing safe and attentive childcare services
- Monitoring children’s well-being and daily routines
- Supporting feeding, hygiene, and comfort needs
- Maintaining a safe and clean childcare environment
- Communicating with caregivers and research staff regarding child welfare
11. PhD Fellowship – KEMRI, Kenya and Oslo, Norway
Reference: VN00923
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 26 March 2026
Job Description
The PhD Fellowship provides an opportunity for candidates to pursue advanced research training through a collaborative program involving institutions in Kenya and Norway.
Responsibilities include:
- Conducting doctoral research within designated research programs
- Participating in scientific research activities and collaborations
- Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting research data
- Preparing research publications and reports
- Contributing to scientific knowledge through research outputs
12. Postdoctoral Fellowship – KEMRI, Kenya and Oslo, Norway
Reference: VN00924
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 26 March 2026
Job Description
The Postdoctoral Fellowship provides advanced research training for early-career scientists within collaborative research programs.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting independent and collaborative research
- Publishing scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals
- Supporting mentorship and training of junior researchers
- Contributing to research project development and implementation
13. PhD Studentship – KEMRI and University of Bergen (UiB), Norway
Reference: VN00925
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 26 March 2026
Job Description
The PhD Studentship offers candidates an opportunity to pursue doctoral studies while contributing to collaborative research between institutions in Kenya and Norway.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting research activities under supervision
- Collecting and analyzing research data
- Preparing academic publications and reports
- Participating in research seminars and academic collaborations
14. Postdoctoral Researcher
Reference: VN00926
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Job Description
The Postdoctoral Researcher will conduct advanced research within KEMRI’s scientific programs.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading and supporting research projects
- Conducting data analysis and interpretation
- Publishing research findings
- Supporting grant development and research collaborations
15. Clinical Research Scientist – KEMRI-CGHR
Reference: VN00927
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Grade: KMR 05
Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Job Description
The Clinical Research Scientist will lead and support clinical research activities within KEMRI programs.
Key responsibilities include:
- Designing and implementing clinical research studies
- Supervising clinical research teams and field activities
- Ensuring adherence to ethical and regulatory research standards
- Collecting and analyzing clinical research data
- Preparing research reports, publications, and presentations
- Supporting collaboration with partner institutions and stakeholders
