The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) continues to play a central role in advancing health research, disease surveillance, and scientific innovation in Kenya and across the African continent. As the national body responsible for health research and biomedical innovation, KEMRI contributes to evidence-based policy development, improved healthcare delivery, and global collaborations in medical science.
Through its research centers and collaborative programs, the institution supports a wide range of scientific initiatives, including epidemiology, laboratory diagnostics, clinical research, public health interventions, and health systems strengthening. KEMRI’s partnerships with international universities, global health organizations, and development partners have positioned the institute as one of Africa’s leading biomedical research institutions.
In line with its mandate to strengthen research capacity and operational excellence, KEMRI has announced multiple employment and fellowship opportunities across different departments and research programs. These positions provide professionals, researchers, and administrative specialists with an opportunity to contribute to impactful scientific work while supporting the institute’s mission to improve health outcomes through high-quality research.
The current vacancies span laboratory services, data management, finance and administration, executive operations, regulatory affairs, research fellowships, and clinical research. The roles are available in locations including Kisumu, Homa Bay, and research collaboration programs involving international academic institutions in Norway.
These positions are offered on a contract basis or as research fellowships and internships, depending on the specific role and program structure. Qualified individuals are encouraged to review the details of each position and apply before the respective deadlines.
The available opportunities are outlined below.
Laboratory Technologist – Kisumu
Job Reference: VN00913
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 07
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 19 March 2026
Role Overview
The Laboratory Technologist will support laboratory operations within the research program by performing diagnostic tests, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring adherence to laboratory protocols and quality standards. The role requires technical expertise in biomedical laboratory procedures and a strong commitment to research integrity and safety compliance.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Laboratory Testing and Diagnostics
The technologist will conduct laboratory analyses on biological samples in accordance with established research protocols and laboratory standards. This includes processing clinical specimens, conducting laboratory assays, and recording results accurately within laboratory information systems.
Sample Handling and Processing
The role involves receiving, labeling, and preparing samples for testing while maintaining proper storage and preservation procedures to ensure specimen integrity.
Quality Assurance and Laboratory Standards
The laboratory technologist will support quality management systems by following standard operating procedures, participating in quality control processes, and ensuring compliance with institutional laboratory standards.
Equipment Maintenance
The technologist will operate and maintain laboratory equipment, conduct routine calibration procedures, and report equipment malfunctions or maintenance requirements to laboratory management.
Data Recording and Reporting
The role includes accurate documentation of laboratory results, updating laboratory registers, and supporting research data reporting activities as required.
Safety and Biosafety Compliance
The technologist will follow biosafety guidelines, maintain proper laboratory hygiene practices, and ensure safe handling of potentially hazardous materials.
Team Collaboration
The laboratory technologist will collaborate with research scientists, clinicians, and laboratory staff to support ongoing research projects and diagnostic services.
Apply Now
Data Clerk – Kisumu
Job Reference: VN00914
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 07
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 19 March 2026
Role Overview
The Data Clerk will support research and operational teams by performing data entry, data verification, and documentation tasks. The position plays a key role in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and accessibility of research and operational data.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Data Entry and Documentation
The data clerk will capture research and operational data into designated databases and information management systems.
Data Verification and Validation
The role includes reviewing and validating data entries to ensure completeness, accuracy, and compliance with data management protocols.
Record Management
The clerk will maintain organized data records, including electronic databases and physical documentation required for research activities.
Data Retrieval and Reporting
The position involves retrieving data upon request and supporting research teams in generating reports and summaries.
Confidentiality and Data Protection
The role requires adherence to institutional data protection policies to ensure confidentiality of sensitive research information.
Coordination with Research Teams
The clerk will work closely with field teams and laboratory staff to ensure timely entry and processing of collected data.
Apply Now
Data Manager
Job Reference: VN00915
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 05
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 23 March 2026
Role Overview
The Data Manager will oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of data management systems for research programs. The role ensures that research data is properly collected, stored, analyzed, and reported in accordance with institutional and international research standards.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Data Systems Management
The data manager will design and maintain secure data management systems that support research data collection and analysis.
Database Development and Administration
The role includes developing databases, implementing data validation protocols, and ensuring data integrity throughout the research lifecycle.
Data Quality Assurance
The manager will establish procedures for data quality checks, validation processes, and error resolution.
Data Analysis Support
The role includes supporting researchers with data extraction, statistical analysis preparation, and dataset management.
Research Compliance
The manager will ensure compliance with ethical and regulatory standards governing research data management.
Team Supervision
The role may involve coordinating data clerks and research assistants to ensure proper data handling and workflow efficiency.
Apply Now
Finance and Administration Officer
Job Reference: VN00916
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 06
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 23 March 2026
Role Overview
The Finance and Administration Officer will support financial management and administrative operations within the research program. The role involves budgeting support, financial reporting, procurement coordination, and office administration.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Financial Management
The officer will support budgeting processes, financial reporting, and expenditure tracking for research activities.
Administrative Coordination
The role involves managing administrative processes, office logistics, and documentation within the program.
Procurement and Resource Management
The officer will assist with procurement procedures, vendor coordination, and inventory management.
Financial Documentation
The position includes maintaining financial records, preparing payment documentation, and supporting financial audits.
Operational Support
The officer will assist program leadership with operational planning and coordination activities.
Apply Now
Personal Assistant and Operations Coordinator
Job Reference: VN00917
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 07
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 23 March 2026
Role Overview
The Personal Assistant and Operations Coordinator will provide executive support and operational coordination for program leadership. The position ensures efficient scheduling, communication management, and coordination of operational activities.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Executive Support
The role involves managing calendars, scheduling meetings, and coordinating travel arrangements for senior leadership.
Communication Management
The assistant will prepare correspondence, manage communication channels, and ensure timely dissemination of information.
Operations Coordination
The role includes coordinating program activities, tracking action items, and supporting operational planning.
Document Management
The assistant will organize and maintain official documentation, reports, and meeting records.
Administrative Support
The role includes supporting administrative tasks related to program implementation and coordination.
Apply Now
Receptionist
Job Reference: VN00918
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 07
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 25 March 2026
Role Overview
The Receptionist will serve as the first point of contact for visitors and staff while supporting front-office operations and administrative processes.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Front Office Management
The receptionist will manage visitor reception, phone communications, and general inquiries.
Administrative Support
The role includes handling documentation, mail management, and scheduling support.
Visitor Coordination
The receptionist will assist visitors with directions, meeting arrangements, and access coordination.
Office Communication
The role includes managing internal communication and ensuring smooth front-office operations.
Apply Now
Executive Office Associate (Operations)
Job Reference: VN00919
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 05
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 25 March 2026
Role Overview
The Executive Office Associate will support operational coordination and strategic activities within the executive office.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Executive Office Operations
The associate will support the implementation of operational activities within the executive office.
Coordination and Scheduling
The role involves coordinating meetings, preparing documentation, and supporting executive communication.
Operational Reporting
The associate will assist in preparing reports and tracking operational activities.
Program Support
The role includes coordinating internal communication and supporting cross-departmental activities.
Apply Now
Administrative and Regulatory Affairs Officer
Job Reference: VN00920
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 06
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 25 March 2026
Role Overview
The Administrative and Regulatory Affairs Officer will support regulatory compliance and administrative coordination within research programs.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Regulatory Compliance
The officer will ensure that research activities comply with relevant regulatory requirements and institutional guidelines.
Documentation Management
The role includes maintaining regulatory documentation and coordinating submissions to regulatory bodies.
Administrative Coordination
The officer will support administrative functions related to research program operations.
Policy and Compliance Support
The role involves supporting policy implementation and compliance monitoring.
Apply Now
Laboratory Technologist – Homabay
Job Reference: VN00921
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 07
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 25 March 2026
Role Overview
The Laboratory Technologist will support laboratory operations in Homa Bay by conducting diagnostic testing, sample processing, and laboratory quality assurance activities in support of research projects.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Laboratory Analysis
Conduct laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures on research samples.
Sample Processing
Prepare and store specimens in accordance with laboratory procedures.
Quality Control
Support laboratory quality management systems and maintain compliance with research standards.
Equipment Operation
Operate and maintain laboratory equipment used in diagnostic and research processes.
Documentation and Reporting
Maintain accurate laboratory records and support research reporting requirements.
Apply Now
Baby Minder – Kisumu
Job Reference: VN00922
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 09
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 26 March 2026
Role Overview
The Baby Minder will provide childcare support within the institutional environment, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for infants and young children.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Childcare Support
Provide daily care for infants and young children, including feeding, supervision, and comfort.
Health and Safety Monitoring
Ensure the safety and wellbeing of children within the facility.
Environment Management
Maintain cleanliness and organization within childcare areas.
Support to Parents and Staff
Assist parents and staff in coordinating childcare arrangements within the institution.
Apply Now
PhD Fellowship – KEMRI, Kenya and Oslo, Norway
Job Reference: VN00923
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 26 March 2026
Role Overview
This fellowship provides doctoral training opportunities for candidates interested in biomedical and health research within collaborative programs between KEMRI and research institutions in Norway.
Key Responsibilities
Research Development
Conduct advanced scientific research under the supervision of senior researchers.
Academic Collaboration
Participate in collaborative research activities between Kenyan and Norwegian institutions.
Data Analysis and Publication
Analyze research data and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
Academic Training
Participate in doctoral training activities and research seminars.
Apply Now
Postdoctoral Fellowship – KEMRI, Kenya and Oslo, Norway
Job Reference: VN00924
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 26 March 2026
Role Overview
The Postdoctoral Fellowship offers advanced research opportunities for scholars seeking to expand their research expertise within international collaborative programs.
Key Responsibilities
Research Leadership
Lead advanced research projects within collaborative research programs.
Scientific Publication
Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
Mentorship
Support junior researchers and graduate students within the program.
Research Collaboration
Engage with international partners and research institutions.
Apply Now
PhD Studentship – KEMRI and University of Bergen (UiB), Norway
Job Reference: VN00925
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 26 March 2026
Role Overview
This studentship provides doctoral research opportunities through a partnership between KEMRI and the University of Bergen.
Key Responsibilities
Research Execution
Conduct doctoral research within the program’s research themes.
Academic Collaboration
Work closely with supervisors from both institutions.
Scientific Reporting
Prepare research reports, presentations, and academic publications.
Training and Development
Participate in academic training activities and seminars.
Apply Now
Postdoctoral Researcher
Job Reference: VN00926
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Role Overview
The Postdoctoral Researcher will conduct advanced scientific investigations within KEMRI research programs while contributing to academic publications and project development.
Key Responsibilities
Research Implementation
Lead and conduct advanced research studies.
Data Analysis
Analyze research data and support scientific reporting.
Publication
Prepare research manuscripts for publication.
Collaboration
Engage with interdisciplinary research teams.
Apply Now
Clinical Research Scientist – KEMRI-CGHR
Job Reference: VN00927
Employment Type: Contract
Job Grade: KMR 05
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Role Overview
The Clinical Research Scientist will support clinical research projects at KEMRI’s Centre for Global Health Research (CGHR). The role involves study coordination, research data management, and collaboration with research teams.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Clinical Study Coordination
Coordinate clinical research studies and ensure compliance with research protocols.
Research Data Management
Oversee collection, documentation, and analysis of clinical research data.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure adherence to ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements.
Scientific Collaboration
Work with multidisciplinary research teams to support research outcomes.
Reporting and Publication
Contribute to research publications and scientific dissemination activities.
