The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a state corporation established through the Science and Technology (Amendment) Act of 1979, later revised under the Science, Technology and Innovation Act of 2013. Mandated as the national body responsible for carrying out health research in Kenya, KEMRI has grown steadily over more than four decades into a regional hub of excellence in human health research. Today, it ranks among the leading research institutions in Africa and has earned global recognition as a Centre of excellence in health research.
In its commitment to advancing health solutions and supporting the country’s scientific development, KEMRI invites applications from qualified and motivated individuals to fill various advertised career opportunities. These roles cut across research, clinical practice, administration, and technical support, offering opportunities for professionals at different career stages.
Below is a detailed overview of the advertised positions:
1. PhD Studentship – KEMRI CGHR Kisumu
Reference Number: VN00852
Location: Kisumu
Type: Internship
Positions Available: 1
Deadline: August 26, 2025
This role offers an opportunity for an aspiring researcher to pursue a doctoral training program within the Centre for Global Health Research in Kisumu. The studentship is structured to provide mentorship, laboratory exposure, and practical engagement in health research projects. The selected candidate will work closely with seasoned scientists, contribute to ongoing studies, and build a solid foundation in specialized fields of public health research.
2. Community Tracker – Kisumu
Reference Number: VN00853
Location: Kisumu
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 6
Grade: KMR 07
Deadline: August 26, 2025
The Community Tracker will be responsible for following up on study participants in various community settings. The role involves participant tracing, data collection, and supporting adherence to study protocols. It requires high-level engagement with local communities to ensure accurate data and participant retention in health research projects. The position also supports outreach initiatives and builds trust between the Institute and the communities it serves.
3. Early Post-Doctoral Researcher – Yellow Fever
Reference Number: VN00854
Location: Not specified
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Deadline: August 24, 2025
This position is designed for an early-career researcher with a strong interest in infectious diseases. The researcher will focus on Yellow Fever, undertaking studies related to epidemiology, immunology, and control interventions. The role offers opportunities to publish research findings, collaborate with international research partners, and contribute to the global understanding of vector-borne diseases.
4. Assistant Research Officer – Genomics and Bioinformatics
Reference Number: VN00855
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Deadline: August 24, 2025
The Assistant Research Officer will be engaged in genomic sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. The role requires supporting the design, execution, and analysis of genomic studies aimed at understanding disease mechanisms. It is critical in advancing precision medicine and contributing to Kenya’s participation in cutting-edge global research.
5. Early Post-Doctoral Researcher – Serosurveillance
Reference Number: VN00856
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Deadline: August 24, 2025
This research role focuses on serosurveillance studies designed to monitor immunity and disease prevalence in populations. The post-doctoral researcher will conduct serological assays, analyze population-level data, and support surveillance programs that guide national and global health interventions.
6. Early Post-Doctoral Researcher
Reference Number: VN00857
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Deadline: August 24, 2025
The general post-doctoral researcher role offers early-career scientists a platform to explore diverse aspects of biomedical research under the mentorship of senior scientists. The selected candidate will participate in collaborative projects, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and gain exposure to multidisciplinary approaches in medical research.
7. Accountant – Mtwapa
Reference Number: VN00858
Location: Mtwapa
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Grade: KMR 06
Deadline: August 30, 2025
The Accountant will provide financial management support to research programs and administrative operations at the Mtwapa centre. Responsibilities include budget monitoring, financial reporting, expenditure tracking, and ensuring compliance with institutional and donor financial policies. The role plays a critical part in ensuring transparency and accountability in research funding.
8. Data/ICT Assistant – Mtwapa
Reference Number: VN00859
Location: Mtwapa
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Grade: KMR 08
Deadline: August 30, 2025
The Data/ICT Assistant will support data entry, management, and ICT infrastructure. The role involves maintaining databases, providing IT support to staff, troubleshooting system issues, and ensuring data integrity. The position is vital in maintaining smooth digital operations in research and administrative workflows.
9. Office Assistant – Mtwapa
Reference Number: VN00860
Location: Mtwapa
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Grade: KMR 12
Deadline: August 30, 2025
The Office Assistant will support general office operations including filing, clerical work, cleaning, and basic administrative duties. This role ensures smooth day-to-day functions within the centre, supporting both researchers and administrative staff in achieving operational efficiency.
10. Senior Laboratory Technologist – Mtwapa
Reference Number: VN00861
Location: Mtwapa
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 2
Grade: KMR 07
Deadline: August 30, 2025
The Senior Laboratory Technologist will oversee laboratory activities, ensuring adherence to laboratory standards and protocols. The role includes supervising junior staff, conducting specialized laboratory procedures, and maintaining equipment. This position is crucial for supporting high-quality research and diagnostics.
11. Pharmaceutical Technologist – Mtwapa
Reference Number: VN00862
Location: Mtwapa
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Grade: KMR 08
Deadline: August 30, 2025
The Pharmaceutical Technologist will dispense medications, manage inventory of pharmaceuticals, and support clinical research involving drug administration. The role ensures that study participants and patients receive safe and appropriate pharmaceutical care.
12. Quality Assurance Officer – Mtwapa
Reference Number: VN00863
Location: Mtwapa
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Grade: KMR 06
Deadline: August 30, 2025
The Quality Assurance Officer will be responsible for ensuring compliance with internal and external standards in research and laboratory operations. The role involves monitoring procedures, conducting audits, and implementing corrective actions to maintain high-quality outputs in research programs.
13. Registered Nurse – Mtwapa
Reference Number: VN00864
Location: Mtwapa
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Grade: KMR 08
Deadline: August 30, 2025
The Registered Nurse will provide nursing support within clinical and research settings. Duties include patient care, administering treatment, monitoring participants, and supporting clinical trials. This role ensures participant safety and high standards of healthcare delivery.
14. Behavioral Care Manager – Kisumu
Reference Number: VN00865
Location: Kisumu
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Grade: KMR 06
Deadline: September 7, 2025
The Behavioral Care Manager will support mental health and behavioral interventions within research and healthcare programs. Responsibilities include counseling, case management, coordinating with mental health specialists, and developing strategies for participant well-being.
15. Data Manager – Kisumu
Reference Number: VN00866
Location: Kisumu
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Grade: KMR 05
Deadline: September 7, 2025
The Data Manager will oversee the collection, entry, cleaning, and storage of research data. The role requires developing and implementing data management systems, ensuring data security, and providing statistical support for research teams. This position is integral to producing reliable and accurate research outputs.
16. Psychiatric Nurses – Kisumu
Reference Number: VN00867
Location: Kisumu
Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Grade: KMR 07
Deadline: September 7, 2025
Psychiatric Nurses will provide specialized care for participants with mental health needs. The role involves patient assessment, therapy administration, counseling, and supporting research studies that focus on psychiatric and behavioral health.
