Research Support Coordinator (RSC) at British Institute in Eastern Africa (BIEA)

The British Institute in Eastern Africa (BIEA) invites applications from suitably qualified, experienced, and self-motivated individuals for the position of Research Support Coordinator (RSC) at our Nairobi office. This entry-level role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to BIEA’s vibrant research community and support its diverse programme of activities and events.

Key Responsibilities

Reporting to the HR & Organizational Development Manager, the Research Support Coordinator will:

• Manage the BIEA and partner events calendar.
• Organise logistics for events, including venue bookings, supplier coordination, and staff liaison.
• Coordinate on-site event delivery, working closely with AV, housekeeping, and security teams.
• Communicate overtime requirements to HR at the planning stage.
• Respond to member enquiries about NACOSTI affiliation using approved templates.
• Process affiliation requests and liaise with NACOSTI to ensure timely issuance of permits.
• Maintain accurate records of NACOSTI and affiliation enquiries.
• Facilitate Kiswahili language lessons.
• Document events and applications for British Academy reporting.
• Support research grant application processes, including managing the grants inbox and filing submissions.
• Deliver updated inductions for all BIEA building users.
• Ensure equipment is serviced and fire safety standards are maintained.
• Conduct biannual risk assessments of BIEA premises and action improvements.
• Maintain up-to-date and relevant signage across all buildings.
• Provide occasional support to the Finance Manager and the HR & Organisational Development Manager as needed.
• Under the guidance and supervision of the Kenya Country Director, developing our processes and procedures for facilitating research permits and passes to ensure compliance and adaptation in the face of changing legal requirements in conjunction with the Compliance Manager.
• Under the guidance and supervision of the Kenya Country Director, keeping up to date with legal requirements for researchers coming into Kenya to ensure the information we provide, and our processes are correct and compliant in conjunction with the Compliance Manager.
• Developing good relationships with NACOSTI. Understanding their procedures, remaining up to date on any changes they implement, and communicating these changes to the Country Director and other relevant staff members.
• Alerting the Kenya Country Director to any issues with specific NACOSTI enquiries or applications.

Essential Requirements

Only candidates who meet all the following criteria will be considered:

• Must have the right to work in Kenya.
• Must hold a degree in Social Sciences or a related discipline.
• Must have demonstrated experience organising international events within a research environment.
• Must possess excellent written and oral communication skills