Aga Khan University (AKU) and its affiliated Network of Quality, Teaching and Learning (QTL_net) are inviting applications from qualified professionals to fill key leadership positions in Nairobi, Kenya. These openings present an opportunity for experienced individuals to contribute to AKU’s global vision of advancing research, education, and health services. Both roles offer a platform to influence academic and institutional growth, foster excellence in education, and drive impactful research initiatives within a dynamic and collaborative environment.
The available positions are:
- Associate Director, Cancer Center – Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya (Closing Date: October 10, 2025)
- Vice Provost, Teaching & Learning – Network of Quality, Teaching and Learning, Nairobi, Kenya (Closing Date: October 10, 2025)
The following sections outline the detailed job descriptions for each position, including the roles, key responsibilities, and the expected scope of engagement.
Associate Director, Cancer Center
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Closing Date: October 10, 2025
The Associate Director, Cancer Center at Aga Khan University will play a central leadership role in shaping and executing the strategic vision of AKU’s Cancer Center. This role requires an accomplished professional capable of leading multidisciplinary teams, enhancing research and clinical programs, and fostering innovation in cancer care. The incumbent will work closely with senior university and hospital leadership to integrate research, education, and clinical service delivery across AKU’s academic and healthcare network.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Development
- Provide strategic direction and oversight for the Cancer Center’s academic, clinical, and research programs, ensuring alignment with AKU’s mission and long-term institutional goals.
- Lead the development and implementation of the Cancer Center’s strategic plan, including objectives related to research, patient care, teaching, and community engagement.
- Foster collaboration between departments, faculties, and external partners to advance the center’s initiatives in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Support the development of innovative cancer programs that promote evidence-based practices and address region-specific health challenges.
Research Excellence and Academic Growth
- Spearhead the expansion of cancer research programs, including translational and clinical research that integrates laboratory findings with patient outcomes.
- Encourage faculty-led research initiatives, grant writing, and publication in high-impact journals.
- Facilitate mentorship and training opportunities for early-career researchers, clinicians, and postgraduate students pursuing cancer-related studies.
- Establish partnerships with international cancer research institutions and networks to enhance knowledge sharing and joint research ventures.
Clinical Program Development and Oversight
- Collaborate with clinical teams to ensure the provision of high-quality, patient-centered oncology services across AKU’s health system.
- Oversee the integration of new technologies, diagnostic tools, and treatment protocols that enhance patient outcomes.
- Support the establishment of multidisciplinary tumor boards, clinical trials units, and supportive care programs.
- Promote clinical excellence through evidence-based protocols, performance monitoring, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
Operational Management and Resource Planning
- Manage the Cancer Center’s operational efficiency, including budget development, financial management, and resource allocation.
- Ensure that administrative, research, and clinical functions operate in accordance with institutional policies and international standards.
- Coordinate fundraising and donor engagement efforts in collaboration with AKU’s advancement and development offices.
- Monitor performance indicators and produce regular reports on the center’s progress, outcomes, and areas for improvement.
Community Engagement and Partnerships
- Strengthen community-based cancer awareness, screening, and prevention programs in line with AKU’s social impact objectives.
- Foster partnerships with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and healthcare providers to improve access to oncology services.
- Represent the Cancer Center in professional and academic forums to enhance its visibility and reputation both locally and internationally.
The position demands a visionary leader with a strong background in cancer research, education, and health system development. The role requires commitment to AKU’s values of excellence, integrity, and service to humanity through knowledge and innovation.
Vice Provost, Teaching & Learning
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Closing Date: October 10, 2025
The Vice Provost, Teaching & Learning will serve as a senior academic leader within the Network of Quality, Teaching and Learning (QTL_net) at Aga Khan University. This position involves leading university-wide efforts to enhance the quality of teaching, curriculum development, learning assessment, and academic innovation across AKU’s global campuses. The successful candidate will guide institutional strategies aimed at improving pedagogical practices and fostering a culture of continuous academic improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Institutional Leadership and Academic Vision
- Provide overall leadership for the strategic planning and implementation of teaching and learning initiatives across AKU’s global network.
- Lead efforts to strengthen institutional teaching standards, ensuring alignment with international best practices and the university’s quality assurance framework.
- Collaborate with deans, department chairs, and faculty to foster academic excellence and to integrate teaching innovation into program design and delivery.
- Support the development and sustainability of centers of teaching and learning excellence that promote evidence-based pedagogical practices.
Curriculum Development and Academic Standards
- Oversee the design, review, and continuous improvement of academic programs to maintain relevance, rigor, and alignment with institutional goals.
- Facilitate faculty training and development programs focused on active learning, assessment, and digital pedagogy.
- Lead efforts to incorporate interdisciplinary and experiential learning approaches within AKU’s academic portfolio.
- Monitor curriculum delivery to ensure consistency, inclusivity, and responsiveness to student and societal needs.
Quality Assurance and Learning Assessment
- Develop and implement robust systems for evaluating the effectiveness of teaching and learning across academic units.
- Establish institutional benchmarks for student learning outcomes and program effectiveness.
- Oversee the development of metrics and evaluation frameworks that inform decision-making and resource allocation.
- Ensure compliance with internal and external accreditation standards related to teaching quality and academic performance.
Faculty Development and Capacity Building
- Promote a culture of continuous professional development among faculty members through mentorship, training, and leadership programs.
- Support initiatives aimed at recognizing and rewarding teaching excellence within the university community.
- Facilitate collaboration among faculty across disciplines and campuses to share knowledge, teaching innovations, and best practices.
- Champion inclusive teaching practices that support diverse learners and foster equitable learning environments.
Innovation in Learning Technologies
- Drive the integration of technology-enhanced learning tools and digital platforms to improve accessibility and engagement.
- Lead institutional projects focused on online learning, blended education, and the development of open educational resources.
- Collaborate with technology and instructional design teams to ensure the effective use of digital solutions that enhance learning experiences.
- Encourage research in teaching and learning innovation, particularly in technology-driven and data-informed education.
Collaboration and Institutional Partnerships
- Work closely with senior university leadership to strengthen academic collaboration across AKU’s regional and international campuses.
- Develop partnerships with other universities, research centers, and quality assurance agencies to promote shared learning and mutual development.
- Represent the institution in external forums and contribute to global dialogue on higher education, quality, and innovation.
- Facilitate exchange programs, faculty collaborations, and academic networks that advance AKU’s global education agenda.
Strategic Oversight and Administration
- Manage QTL_net’s administrative functions, including strategic planning, staffing, budgeting, and reporting.
- Ensure efficient coordination of academic initiatives across different campuses and faculties.
- Supervise institutional research on teaching and learning practices to guide evidence-based policy formulation.
- Provide periodic updates to the Provost and other university executives on progress, outcomes, and future directions of QTL_net initiatives.
This role requires an individual with extensive experience in academic leadership, policy development, and pedagogical innovation. The Vice Provost, Teaching & Learning will be expected to work collaboratively with academic leaders across AKU’s campuses to strengthen teaching quality, learning environments, and institutional excellence.
Application Process
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications by the stated closing date of October 10, 2025. Applications should be submitted through the respective portals or emails as indicated in the official job postings by Aga Khan University and the Network of Quality, Teaching and Learning.
