Research Chair (Languages Education) at Kisii University

Role Overview

Kisii University (KSU), in partnership with HERI-Africa, is establishing a Research Chair in Languages Education to lead high-impact research, capacity development, and innovation in Language Education in Kenya and across Africa. The Chair will be based at Kisii University (KSU), with collaboration across the HERI-Africa network which will require occasional travel.

Key Result Areas

The Research Chair will:

• Provide intellectual and scholarly leadership in foundational languages research.
• Lead multi-country and multi-institutional research programs aligned with HERI-Africa’s mission.
• Strengthen research capacity through mentorship, postgraduate training, and institutional collaboration.
• Build strong networks across universities and other stakeholders.
• Ensure research findings are translated into policy and practice to enhance learning outcomes.
• Participate in resource mobilization efforts to support research in Languages education

Key Responsibilities

Research Leadership and Strategy Development

• Develop and lead a multi-year research agenda focused on foundational Language education.
• Establish systems to ensure research quality, ethical compliance, and effective dissemination.

Graduate Training and Supervision

• Strengthen postgraduate training programs at Kisii Univeristy.
• Develop a pipeline of early-career scholars through training, workshops, and mentorship.

Collaboration, Partnerships & Knowledge Mobilization

• Strengthen partnerships with universities, government agencies, and research organizations across Africa.
• Translate research findings into policy briefs, teaching tools, and evidence-based guidance.  

Resource Mobilization & Grants Management

• Lead and contribute to fundraising efforts for languages education research. 

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Professor or Associate Professor, or equivalent senior academic rank, in Language Education or a related discipline.
• Strong publication record in Language education, foundational language development, or early-grade learning.
• Demonstrated ability to attract and manage research grants and funding, including multi-institutional or collaborative projects.
• At least 10 years of experience in education research, teacher education, or pedagogical innovation.
• Strong methodological expertise (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage policymakers and practitioners.
• Demonstrated integrity, leadership, and commitment to improving learning outcomes.