The University of Nairobi continues to uphold its commitment to excellence in research, clinical care, and academic advancement by offering a number of exciting opportunities in various project-based roles. These positions are aligned with short and long-term research and healthcare initiatives implemented in collaboration with both local and international partners.
The current vacancies are primarily under the University of Nairobi’s KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research (KAVI-ICR), and other affiliated project units, offering both re-advertised and new roles. These positions aim to support essential work in public health, clinical trials, community engagement, and research coordination.
Below are the detailed job descriptions for each position currently open for application. The deadline for submission ranges from July 17 to July 18, 2025. Interested candidates are encouraged to carefully review the respective responsibilities and requirements for each role and apply as instructed in the downloadable job descriptions.
1. PhD Research Assistant – Re-Advertisement (KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research, VLIR-UOS Program)
Deadline: Friday, July 18, 2025
This position is being re-advertised, offering eligible candidates another opportunity to participate in an interdisciplinary, collaborative research initiative under the VLIR-UOS Program.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support PhD-level research activities focused on clinical, social, and public health themes aligned with the VLIR-UOS program objectives.
- Conduct field and desk research including qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis.
- Participate in collaborative project meetings, workshops, and academic dissemination events.
- Assist in the development of research protocols and ethical approval documentation.
- Contribute to publications, conference presentations, and research reports.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation of research progress.
- Facilitate training and mentorship sessions with other junior researchers or interns.
2. Adherence Counsellor
Deadline: Thursday, July 17, 2025
The Adherence Counsellor will support project activities by promoting behavioral change, adherence to clinical protocols, and enhancing patient retention in care for research participants.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide pre-test and post-test HIV counselling services in line with project protocols.
- Offer adherence counselling to study participants and ensure compliance with clinical appointments.
- Maintain confidentiality and ensure the psychological wellbeing of clients during counselling.
- Educate clients about HIV prevention, treatment adherence, and healthy behavioral practices.
- Prepare and maintain appropriate counselling and follow-up records.
- Liaise with clinical staff to follow up on participant adherence challenges and provide appropriate support.
3. Study Nurse/Counsellor
Deadline: Thursday, July 17, 2025
This role combines both clinical and psychosocial support responsibilities within a research setting. The Study Nurse/Counsellor will be key to participant care and study protocol compliance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide nursing care to participants enrolled in clinical studies.
- Conduct participant screening, enrollment, and follow-up procedures as per protocol.
- Offer counselling services related to HIV prevention, treatment, and reproductive health.
- Ensure correct documentation of clinical procedures and counselling sessions.
- Monitor adverse events and report them in line with Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
- Collaborate with study physicians, clinicians, and lab staff to ensure seamless care and data accuracy.
4. Site Engagement Clinician
Deadline: Thursday, July 17, 2025
The Site Engagement Clinician will be instrumental in maintaining high-quality clinical interactions with participants and engaging the study site communities to ensure successful project implementation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct clinical evaluations, procedures, and follow-ups with study participants.
- Oversee participant safety and adherence to clinical study protocols.
- Support community outreach, engagement, and retention strategies.
- Assist in training and mentoring of other clinical and support staff.
- Participate in site preparation, monitoring visits, and audits.
- Ensure accurate and complete recording of clinical data and reporting of adverse events.
5. Study Physician
Deadline: Thursday, July 17, 2025
This position calls for a licensed medical doctor to provide expert oversight and execution of clinical trial protocols.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct physical exams, medical histories, and clinical assessments for trial participants.
- Diagnose and manage any adverse events or medical conditions within the study framework.
- Ensure participants meet eligibility criteria prior to enrollment.
- Supervise clinical research procedures and adherence to GCP guidelines.
- Maintain high ethical standards and ensure the rights and safety of all study participants.
- Contribute to protocol reviews, team training, and regulatory submissions.
6. Laboratory Coordinator
Deadline: Thursday, July 17, 2025
The Laboratory Coordinator will provide scientific and administrative oversight for lab operations in support of the research studies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations and ensure proper storage and processing of specimens.
- Monitor lab equipment, calibrations, and supplies.
- Maintain quality control and assurance protocols in line with research standards.
- Supervise lab technicians and assistants involved in the project.
- Participate in laboratory audits, compliance monitoring, and accreditation processes.
- Maintain updated inventory and document chain of custody for all specimens and reagents.
7. Clinical Research Associate (CRA)
Deadline: Thursday, July 17, 2025
The CRA will ensure the integrity and quality of clinical trials conducted by supporting site monitoring, data accuracy, and regulatory compliance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor study sites for protocol adherence, data integrity, and participant safety.
- Assist in site initiation, monitoring visits, and close-out procedures.
- Maintain up-to-date trial documentation and site files.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the sponsor, investigator, and research site.
- Provide feedback and training to site staff on trial conduct and documentation.
- Identify and address any protocol deviations or issues affecting trial quality.
8. County Clinical Coordinators
Deadline: Thursday, July 17, 2025
This role is ideal for experienced clinical professionals who will oversee the implementation of research and health programs at the county level.
Key Responsibilities:
- Coordinate project activities across multiple county health facilities.
- Liaise with county health authorities and community stakeholders.
- Monitor service delivery and data collection efforts at various implementation sites.
- Facilitate training, mentorship, and supportive supervision of site staff.
- Ensure timely reporting and feedback to the central project team.
- Promote integration of research outcomes into routine county health programming.
These positions offer a valuable opportunity to contribute to impactful healthcare research and service delivery while gaining experience in project-based assignments supported by leading academic and research institutions.
To view the full job descriptions and application instructions for each position, kindly download the respective documents from the official University of Nairobi job portal or use the provided links where applicable.
