0709 203000 - Nairobi 0709 983000 - Kilifi
0709 203000 - NRB 0709 983000 - Kilifi
0709 203000 - NRB | 0709 983000 - Kilifi

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Early Post-Doctoral Researcher (Bioscience)

The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a state corporation established through the Science and Technology (Amendment) Act of 1979, as the national body responsible for carrying out health research in Kenya. KEMRl’s vision is “to be a leading centre of excellence in research for human health,” and its mission is “to improve human health and quality of life through research, capacity building, innovation, and service delivery.’’

The KEMRI-Wellcome Research Programme (KWRP) is a partnership between KEMRI, Wellcome, and the University of Oxford. The Programme established in 1989, has evolved from conducting research in the immunology and epidemiology of malaria to a world class research institute conducting multi-disciplinary research that spans molecular biology to health systems and policy research.  The Program works across 3 main hubs in Kenya (Nairobi and Kilifi) based at the KEMRI Centre for Geographical Medicine Research- Coast Kilifi and Uganda (Mbale) with an international network of collaborating sites.

The KEMRI-Wellcome Research Programme (KWRP) seeks to invite applications from experienced person to fill the following position.

Job Location: Kilifi

Job Type: Full-time

Reference Number: KWTRP26/EPD-BIO/006

Job Grade: 9

Country: Kenya

JOB PURPOSE:

This role is responsible for leading in the design and development of tools, data generation using molecular biology tools, analysis, interpretation, dissemination, collaboration and capacity building on Genomic Sequencing and Bioinformatics for the Bioscience Department.

 

DESCRIPTION:

 

No of Vacancies : Two(2)

Duration: One(1) Year, renewable subject to availability of funds and performance

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS: 

Reports to: Principal Investigator (PI)

Direct and indirect reportees: Research Officers, Laboratory and or other Project Staff

BUDGET AND RESOURCE RESPONSIBILITY:

Financial: None

Budgeting and Planning: None

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

 

  • Lead in Genomics and Bioinformatics analysis by coordinating requests, performing data generation using advanced molecular biology tools, analysis, processing and interpretation of large sequencing data sets generated on diverse platforms such as NextSeq, MiSeq and NovaSeq.
  • Network, collaborate and partner with the other Departments, research groups and other internal and external Genomics and Bioinformatics stakeholders and support in Project Management to ensure quality of outputs and timely completion of Projects
  • Work with the Principal Investigator and other Programme Researchers to identify sustainable funding opportunities and develop proposals to secure Research Grants and funding.
  • Contribute to Capacity building by developing and maintaining user-friendly Genomics and Bioinformatics learning aids and reference materials as well as organizing and delivering short online refresher courses as necessary.
  • Mentor Genomics and Bioinformatics researchers by developing, implementing and reviewing Scientific Research mentorship approaches to the assigned AROs, Postgraduate students and interns
  • Disseminate and publish Genomics and Bioinformatics research work by preparing policy briefs, manuscripts, publishing in reputable scientific journals and disseminating at various internal and external meetings, conferences, workshops and other relevant Scientific forums
  • Manage the Genomic Sequencing and Bioinformatics team by providing direct supervision to the assigned team members and participate in other study HR Management issues as assigned
  • Contribute to the Genomic Sequencing and Bioinformatics team’s full compliance with all relevant internal ethical and Research Governance protocols, policies and procedures as well as all external legal, ethical and regulatory requirements by ensuring proper documentation and adherence at all Research Phases.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Minimum PhD in Genomics, Bioinformatics, Molecular Epidemiology, Computational biology, Virology or any other relevant field from a recognized university
  • Minimum One (1) Year Academic and/or Practical experience in Research from a reputable Research institution
  • Demonstrated experience in capacity building and the use of current technology in Health Research, specifically analytical packages, like R and other bioinformatics software

DESIRABLE

 

  • Demonstrated experience in capacity building and the use of current technology in Health Research, specifically analytical packages, like R and other bioinformatics software

COMPETENCIES:

  • Demonstrated high levels of integrity and confidentiality
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work with diverse, multidisciplinary teams and build strong relationships with internal and external collaborators
  • Excellent analytical skills and ability to deliver quality outputs within strict timelines.
  • Strong Team Management and decision-making skills

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS:

The postholder will be expected to work flexibly, including occasionally outside normal working hours when required.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

All applications for roles in KEMRI and its partners (including KWRP) are centrally applied for using https://www.kemri.go.ke/ E-recruitment portal. To apply for this post, you must register as a user. Log into your account, then proceed to the vacancies, view the post and click on the button: “Apply Now”

Applications which should include your CV, Cover letter, copies of certified academic certificates, testimonials and other relevant documents should be made through KEMRI Website

Successful candidates will be required to provide the following: Certificate of good conduct,

Higher Education Loans Board compliance certificate, KRA Tax compliance certificate, Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission clearance.

Please Note, the subsequent recruitment process after application, will be carried out by the KWRP HR team and all communication will be from the official KWRP emails.

Applicants are required to state their current/last salary.

Applicants are required to provide a valid email address and telephone number for communication regarding interview invitations. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. During the interview, shortlisted candidates must present the ORIGINALS of the following documents: National Identity Card or Passport, academic and professional certificates, academic transcripts, testimonials, a detailed curriculum vitae (CV), and a valid clearance certificate (Certificate of Good Conduct or its equivalent).

All the applications to be done through KEMRI Website https:///www.kemri.go.ke/e- recruitment –

E-Recruitment Portal on or before 21st April,2026 by 5.00 p.m.