The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a State Corporation established under the Science and Technology (Amendment) Act of 1979, with a mandate to conduct health research that informs policy and improves human health outcomes in Kenya and beyond. Over the years, KEMRI has positioned itself as a leading institution in biomedical research in Africa, working in collaboration with global partners to address pressing public health challenges.
In line with its ongoing research, administrative, and operational needs, KEMRI has announced multiple job opportunities across various departments and locations. These vacancies span contract roles, internships, fellowships, and traineeships, providing opportunities for professionals at different career levels to contribute to impactful research and institutional support functions.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of all advertised positions, including detailed job descriptions to guide prospective applicants in understanding the roles and responsibilities associated with each opportunity.
Available Positions at KEMRI
- Receptionist
Job Reference: VN00918
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: March 25, 2026
Job Description
The Receptionist will serve as the first point of contact for visitors, stakeholders, and staff within the institute. The role is responsible for ensuring smooth front office operations and maintaining a professional and welcoming environment at all times.
Key responsibilities include receiving and directing visitors to appropriate offices or personnel, handling incoming and outgoing calls, managing the front desk area, and maintaining visitor logs. The role also involves coordinating appointment schedules, supporting internal communication, and ensuring that inquiries are addressed promptly and professionally.
Additionally, the Receptionist will assist in basic administrative tasks such as handling correspondence, managing office supplies for the front office, and ensuring that communication channels remain efficient. The role requires maintaining confidentiality and professionalism when dealing with sensitive information.
- Executive Office Associate (Operations)
Job Reference: VN00919
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 05
Application Deadline: March 25, 2026
Job Description
The Executive Office Associate (Operations) will provide high-level administrative and operational support to the executive office. The role focuses on enhancing efficiency in executive functions through effective coordination, communication, and task management.
Responsibilities include managing executive schedules, coordinating meetings and events, preparing reports and briefing materials, and ensuring timely follow-up on key action points. The position also involves facilitating communication between the executive office and internal or external stakeholders.
The role requires supporting strategic initiatives by tracking progress, organizing documentation, and ensuring alignment with institutional objectives. The Executive Office Associate will also handle confidential documents, maintain records, and contribute to improving operational workflows within the executive office.
- Administrative and Regulatory Affairs Officer
Job Reference: VN00920
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 06
Application Deadline: March 25, 2026
Job Description
The Administrative and Regulatory Affairs Officer will play a critical role in ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks governing research and institutional operations. The position involves coordinating administrative processes related to regulatory approvals, documentation, and reporting.
Key responsibilities include preparing and submitting regulatory documents, maintaining compliance records, liaising with regulatory authorities, and ensuring that research activities adhere to ethical and legal standards. The role also involves supporting internal audits and monitoring compliance with institutional policies.
The officer will work closely with research teams to facilitate approvals, track regulatory timelines, and ensure proper documentation of all processes. Additionally, the role includes providing administrative support to regulatory committees and maintaining updated records of approvals and certifications.
- Laboratory Technologist – Homabay
Job Reference: VN00921
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: March 25, 2026
Job Description
The Laboratory Technologist will be responsible for conducting laboratory tests and supporting research activities within the assigned facility in Homabay. The role involves ensuring accurate sample processing, data recording, and adherence to laboratory protocols.
Responsibilities include collecting, preparing, and analyzing samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. The technologist will also be involved in documenting results, supporting research studies, and maintaining laboratory records.
The position requires collaboration with research teams to ensure timely and accurate data collection. The Laboratory Technologist will also assist in training junior staff and maintaining inventory of laboratory supplies.
- Baby Minder – Kisumu
Job Reference: VN00922
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 09
Application Deadline: March 26, 2026
Job Description
The Baby Minder will provide childcare support within a designated facility in Kisumu, ensuring the safety, comfort, and well-being of infants and young children under care. The role is essential in supporting staff members who require childcare services during working hours.
Key responsibilities include attending to children’s daily needs, maintaining hygiene standards, feeding and supervising children, and ensuring a safe and nurturing environment. The Baby Minder will also monitor children’s behavior, report any concerns, and maintain records of daily activities.
The role requires collaboration with parents or guardians to ensure that children’s specific needs are met. Additionally, the Baby Minder will ensure that childcare facilities are clean, organized, and equipped with necessary materials.
- PhD Fellowship – KEMRI, Kenya and Oslo, Norway
Job Reference: VN00923
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: March 26, 2026
Job Description
The PhD Fellowship offers an opportunity for advanced academic research in collaboration between KEMRI and institutions in Oslo, Norway. The program is designed to support doctoral candidates in conducting high-impact research in health-related fields.
The fellowship involves designing and implementing research projects, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing to scientific publications. Fellows will work under the supervision of experienced researchers and collaborate with international teams.
The role includes participating in academic seminars, presenting research findings, and contributing to knowledge dissemination. Fellows are also expected to adhere to research ethics and maintain high standards of academic integrity.
- Postdoctoral Fellowship – KEMRI, Kenya and Oslo, Norway
Job Reference: VN00924
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: March 26, 2026
Job Description
The Postdoctoral Fellowship provides an opportunity for researchers to advance their expertise through collaborative research between KEMRI and Oslo-based institutions. The position focuses on conducting independent research while contributing to ongoing projects.
Responsibilities include leading research studies, supervising junior researchers, publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals, and participating in grant applications. The role also involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and contributing to institutional research objectives.
The fellowship supports professional development through exposure to international research environments and advanced methodologies.
- PhD Studentship – KEMRI, Kenya and University of Bergen (UiB), Norway
Job Reference: VN00925
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: March 26, 2026
Job Description
The PhD Studentship is a collaborative program between KEMRI and the University of Bergen, offering candidates an opportunity to pursue doctoral research in a structured academic environment.
The role involves conducting research aligned with institutional priorities, engaging in academic coursework, and contributing to scientific publications. Candidates will receive mentorship from supervisors in both institutions and participate in international research collaborations.
Responsibilities also include presenting research findings, maintaining documentation, and ensuring compliance with research protocols.
- Postdoctoral Researcher
Job Reference: VN00926
Employment Type: Internship
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
Job Description
The Postdoctoral Researcher will contribute to advanced research projects within KEMRI, focusing on generating new knowledge and supporting scientific innovation.
The role includes designing research methodologies, analyzing data, publishing findings, and collaborating with research teams. The researcher will also support grant writing and contribute to capacity building within the institution.
The position requires active participation in scientific discussions, conferences, and dissemination of research outcomes.
- Clinical Research Scientist – KEMRI-CGHR
Job Reference: VN00927
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 05
Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
Job Description
The Clinical Research Scientist will lead and support clinical research activities at the KEMRI Centre for Global Health Research (CGHR). The role involves overseeing study design, implementation, and data analysis.
Responsibilities include coordinating clinical trials, ensuring compliance with ethical standards, managing research teams, and contributing to scientific publications. The scientist will also liaise with stakeholders, monitor study progress, and ensure quality data collection.
The role requires maintaining accurate records, preparing reports, and supporting grant applications.
- Office & Research Administration Assistant – Trainee – Nairobi
Job Reference: VN00928
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 2
Job Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: April 12, 2026
Job Description
The Office and Research Administration Assistant (Trainee) will support administrative and research functions within the Nairobi office. The role is designed to provide practical experience in administrative processes and research support.
Responsibilities include assisting with documentation, coordinating office activities, supporting research teams with data management, and maintaining records. The trainee will also assist in scheduling meetings, organizing files, and ensuring smooth office operations.
The role involves learning institutional procedures and contributing to administrative efficiency.
- Senior Administrative Officer – Kisumu
Job Reference: VN00929
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 05
Application Deadline: April 12, 2026
Job Description
The Senior Administrative Officer will oversee administrative operations within the Kisumu office, ensuring efficient coordination of activities and support services.
Responsibilities include managing administrative staff, coordinating office functions, overseeing resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with institutional policies. The role also involves preparing reports, supporting management decisions, and improving administrative processes.
The officer will work closely with different departments to ensure seamless operations and effective service delivery.
Application Process
Interested candidates are required to submit their applications through the official KEMRI recruitment portal. Applicants should ensure that they reference the correct job reference number and submit their applications before the specified deadlines for each position.
All applications must be completed online through the KEMRI careers platform.
