Director of Research and Extension at Amref Kenya

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB

The Director of Research and Extension will be responsible for promoting and coordinating research, knowledge transfer, and community engagement within the University. The role holder will establish and maintain recognition of the University as a centre of excellence in research, knowledge transfer and community engagement, while representing an external face of the University for networks within relevant business sectors, community organisations, industry and Primary Health Care Sector. The incumbent will also make a significant contribution to the strategy for the postgraduate taught programmes in the University.

Key Responsibilities

• Build capacity in research for staff, students and PHC workers
• Ensure that research is being conducted and translated to policy and practice
• Grow income from research
• Institutionalize extension in university programs including enhancing experiential learning by connecting Amref University students to field projects as defined in their reformed curricula
• Formulate University responses to policy issues around research, represent the organization in research forums; mainstream research in community engagement
• Ensure that strategic cross-cutting issues are operationalized in research and Research, extension and business development are linked to Amref Health Africa programs
• Achieve cornerstones for the success of research in the university

Key Competencies of the Research Director and Extension

• Have earned academic credentials of at PhD level
• At least ten (10) years’ experience in institutional research
• Understands Primary Health Care environment in Africa
• Experience in research, especially health related and be a respected leader in research in Africa and globally
• Proven ability to raise funds for research
• Competence in managing research partnerships
• Experienced in networking, donor management and developing fundable grant proposals
• Ability to work across cultures
• A broad network and evidence of having established meaningful external stakeholder relationships across government and industry.
• Excellent negotiation and influencing skills leading to demonstrably positive outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience in leading research operations and research training in Africa and/or internationally
• Outstanding interpersonal and influencing skills
• Excellent communications skills

Personal Attributes

• Team oriented with ability to build and lead teams
• Ability to drive a culture of commitment, innovation and engagement
• Commitment to the University’s mission and ethos
• Possess vision, energy and passion
• Personal commitment to diversity and equality