The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has announced several contract employment opportunities across different counties in Kenya. The vacancies provide opportunities for professionals in research, laboratory sciences, biostatistics, project coordination, and community engagement to contribute to critical health research projects.
The advertised positions are based in Nairobi, Thika, Isiolo County, and Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei), supporting KEMRI’s ongoing research and public health initiatives. Successful candidates will work alongside multidisciplinary teams involved in disease surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, data analysis, community engagement, and research coordination.
These opportunities are suitable for experienced professionals seeking to advance their careers in biomedical research, public health, and laboratory sciences while contributing to evidence-based healthcare solutions in Kenya.
Below is a detailed overview of all the available vacancies.
Available Positions
- Community Liaison Officer – Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei)
- Laboratory Analyst – Isiolo County
- Lab Technologist – Thika
- Assistant Program Coordinator – Nairobi
- Biostatistician – Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei)
- Research Scientist – Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei)
- Senior Biostatistician
- Senior Research Scientist – Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei)
Job Descriptions
1. Community Liaison Officer – Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei)
The Community Liaison Officer will serve as the primary link between the research team and local communities participating in KEMRI projects. The role focuses on promoting effective communication, building trust with community stakeholders, and supporting participant engagement throughout the research process.
Key responsibilities include:
- Coordinating community mobilization activities.
- Facilitating communication between researchers and community members.
- Supporting participant recruitment and retention.
- Addressing community concerns and providing accurate project information.
- Promoting ethical engagement during research activities.
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 07
Application Deadline: 29th July 2026
2. Laboratory Analyst – Isiolo County
The Laboratory Analyst will support laboratory operations by conducting diagnostic and analytical procedures required for ongoing medical research projects. The position plays an important role in ensuring reliable laboratory testing and maintaining high standards of quality assurance.
Key responsibilities include:
- Performing laboratory analyses and testing procedures.
- Processing and documenting laboratory specimens.
- Maintaining laboratory equipment and quality control standards.
- Recording laboratory findings accurately.
- Supporting research teams with laboratory-based investigations.
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 27th July 2026
3. Lab Technologist – Thika
The Lab Technologist will participate in laboratory research activities by processing biological samples, operating laboratory equipment, and ensuring compliance with laboratory protocols. The role supports scientific studies through accurate laboratory procedures and documentation.
Key responsibilities include:
- Collecting, preparing, and analyzing laboratory samples.
- Operating specialized laboratory instruments.
- Maintaining laboratory records and documentation.
- Supporting implementation of laboratory quality assurance systems.
- Assisting researchers in laboratory investigations.
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 22nd July 2026
4. Assistant Program Coordinator – Nairobi
The Assistant Program Coordinator will provide administrative and operational support for research programmes to ensure efficient implementation of project activities. The role involves coordinating project schedules, monitoring activities, and facilitating communication among stakeholders.
Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting in planning and coordinating programme activities.
- Supporting implementation of research projects.
- Preparing reports and maintaining project documentation.
- Coordinating meetings, logistics, and stakeholder communication.
- Monitoring project timelines and operational progress.
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 05
Application Deadline: 21st July 2026
5. Biostatistician – Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei)
The Biostatistician will provide statistical expertise for research studies by managing datasets, conducting statistical analyses, and supporting interpretation of scientific findings. The position contributes to ensuring research data is accurate, reliable, and suitable for publication.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing research databases and datasets.
- Conducting statistical analyses using appropriate methodologies.
- Supporting study design and sample size calculations.
- Preparing statistical reports and research outputs.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary research teams.
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 06
Application Deadline: 29th July 2026
6. Research Scientist – Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei)
The Research Scientist will participate in the planning and implementation of scientific studies while contributing to data collection, research methodology, and dissemination of findings. The position supports ongoing biomedical and public health research projects.
Key responsibilities include:
- Designing and implementing research activities.
- Coordinating field and laboratory research operations.
- Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting research data.
- Preparing scientific reports and publications.
- Collaborating with project partners and research teams.
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 06
Application Deadline: 29th July 2026
7. Senior Biostatistician
The Senior Biostatistician will provide advanced statistical leadership for complex biomedical research studies. The role involves guiding statistical methodologies, supervising data analysis, and ensuring research outputs meet scientific and regulatory standards.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading statistical planning for research studies.
- Developing advanced statistical models and analyses.
- Supervising data management and quality assurance activities.
- Supporting preparation of scientific publications and technical reports.
- Providing statistical guidance to multidisciplinary research teams.
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Application Deadline: 15th July 2026
8. Senior Research Scientist – Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei)
The Senior Research Scientist will provide scientific leadership for research programmes, oversee project implementation, and contribute to high-quality research outputs. The role includes mentoring research staff, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring projects achieve their scientific objectives.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading research design and project implementation.
- Supervising research staff and scientific activities.
- Providing technical leadership throughout the research lifecycle.
- Preparing research publications, reports, and presentations.
- Collaborating with local and international research partners.
Employment Type: Contract
Positions: 1
Job Grade: KMR 05
Application Deadline: 29th July 2026
Summary of Vacancies
| Position | Location | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Community Liaison Officer | Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei) | 29 July 2026 |
| Laboratory Analyst | Isiolo County | 27 July 2026 |
| Lab Technologist | Thika | 22 July 2026 |
| Assistant Program Coordinator | Nairobi | 21 July 2026 |
| Biostatistician | Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei) | 29 July 2026 |
| Research Scientist | Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei) | 29 July 2026 |
| Senior Biostatistician | — | 15 July 2026 |
| Senior Research Scientist | Turkana County (Kakuma/Kalobeyei) | 29 July 2026 |
KEMRI continues to offer opportunities for professionals interested in advancing medical research and improving public health outcomes across Kenya. These contract positions provide successful candidates with an opportunity to contribute to nationally significant research programmes while working with experienced multidisciplinary teams.
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the respective closing dates, as late applications may not be considered.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted through the official KEMRI recruitment portal before the respective application deadlines.
