Career Opportunities at Kenya Medical Research - KEMRI

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in any of the following fields; Medical Laboratory Sciences Laboratory Sciences .i.e. Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, or Microbiology from a recognized institution;
• Be registered by the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board (KMLTTB)
• if applicable, with a valid current practicing license
• Proficiency in computer application;
• At least one (1) year relevant work experience;

Job Description

The successful applicant will be part of molecular team including next generation sequencing. This includes work on novel multiple pathogen assays using real time PCR machines and sequencing platforms specifically Illumina NGS. S/he will work closely with the laboratory staff, data analysts, field workers, and the laboratory supervisor/management to effectively perform her/his duties. Her/his functions will be, but not be limited to the following:

Specific Tasks and Responsibilities

• Perform nucleic acid extraction of various sample types and analyze the specimen by PCR
• Work with quality assurance officer in development, implementation and continuous review of standard operating procedures
• Support laboratory functions including but not limited to general cleaning of allocated workspace, preparing reagents etc
• Carry out initial analysis of project data and liaise with supervisor on further analysis
• Organizing biological samples for appropriate storage and shipment
• Monitor operational supplies and requirements and make timely requests through the laboratory supervisor
• Comply with all policies and regulations related to safety, cleanliness and infection control in the Laboratory
• Participate in Quality Assurance (QA) procedures and ensure that these procedures are followed, with respect to samples, reagents and equipment.
• Maintaining good clinical laboratory practice when discharging assigned responsibility
• Perform any other duties that may be assigned by the immediate supervisor

Key Skills and Competencies

• Planning kills
• Communication and reporting skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Team player

Terms of Employment: A one-year renewable contract as per KEMR scheme of service and a probation period for the first 3 months

Closing date 19 May 2022

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Job Description

The Kenya Medical Research Institute is committed to providing the youth with opportunities to acquire, sharpen their knowledge and gain technical/practical skills to complement their studies in order to enhance their employability

Vacancy Requirements:

• BSc in Laboratory Science / Technology, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences/ Medical Laboratory Science or equivalent from a recognized institution.    
• Registration Certificate issued by the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board (KMLTTB) where applicable or any other recognized regulatory body    
• Valid practicing license from Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists where applicable    
• Fluency in English and Kiswahili both written and spoken.    
• Be a Kenyan youth below 30 years of age    Affirmative Action
• Should have graduated and obtained the relevant final certificate    
• Provide a Certificate of good conduct    
• Should possess strong analytical 
• Must be computer literate.

Closing date 19 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• Support, in collaboration with the NIH data support team, the development of the clinical trial database specifications, eCRFs, user requirements, edit rules/checks, query logics and data validation rules within the DF Discover system
• Develop and maintain data management plans, standard operating procedures for conducting data management activities for the trial including backup systems for power and internet
• Ensure quality and accuracy of data submitted from the study sites and assure timely entry and review of the database, query resolution and appropriate reporting and follow-up for all safety events by site personnel
• Create and maintain data management files, data dictionaries and other required documentation in compliance with the national and international standards, regulations and guidelines on data protection, governance and sharing
• Design and implement procedures for automation of data outputs and regular statistical reports and configure dashboards for data visualization and other products for information dissemination
• Provide training and mentoring to research staff and study teams on data management processes and mentor data clerks and interns
• Maintain study electronic devices such as laptops, tablets and other equipment used for data collection, ensuring data is secure and forms are updated as needed
• Extract data and perform regular reviews to identify issues, generate queries, communicate and track their resolution working with the program staff and supervisors for corrective action/query resolution in a timely manner
• Work with the Trial data management support team to ensure the EDC system can lock/unlock and freeze/unfreeze for statistical review, interim review and/or final database checks
• Ensure good internet connectivity for data entry at the trial sites and troubleshoot as needed
• Work with the study team to ensure that data reporting needs are scheduled and
• Manage and supervise the daily data collection at the field sites
• Participate in planning meetings and scheduled conference calls with the study team and study partners
• Perform additional duties as may be assigned by their supervisor

Vacancy Requirements:

• BSc in Computer Science, Biostatistics, Applied Statistics, or any other related field. A master’s degree will be an added advantage.    
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail and a focus on quality and innovation    
• Ability to prioritize work, exercise initiative and work with minimal direction    
• Ability to manage multiple studies of medium complexity or size concurrently    
• Adaptability to changes in work duties, responsibilities, and requirements    
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills    
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with colleagues, including research scientists

Closing date 19 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• Collect and document accurate information from the study participants in line with the standards and guidelines set in the study protocol and SOPs
• Schedule and prepare a work plan of home follow up visits and reminders for study visits during home visits
• Report to the field coordinator and to the clinical team any adverse events as instructed in the field work/home follow-up visit SOP
• Ensure that all the relevant case report forms and diary cards are filled appropriately, and all questions asked during the interviews
• Check questionnaires for accuracy and completeness at the end of interviews
• Keep clean and comprehensive records of study visits and their outcomes
• Conduct debriefing with the study participants at conclusion of interviews
• Adhere strictly to the project deadlines for completion of duties assigned
• Use motorcycles to carry out study trial related activities as assigned by the supervisors
• Responsible for the security, maintenance and timely renewal of motorcycle insurance
• Attend all scheduled meetings on time and report on progress of work
• Perform HIV testing and counselling of mothers and children during screening for study participation
• Any other assigned/ delegated duties by the immediate supervisor

Vacancy Requirements:

• O-Level secondary education with a minimum grade of a D+ (plus)    
• Be trained in VCT/HIV Counselling certificate – (an added advantage)    
• Be in possession of a valid motorcycle riding license    
• Have a Good command of English, Swahili and Dholuo, both spoken and written    
• Be able to write brief reports and keep records.    
• Previous experience in research and particularly in clinical trials    
• Knowledge of Good Clinical Practices (GCP) principles and Human Subjects Protection (HSP) 

Closing date 19 May 2022

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Job Description

This is the entry and training grade in this cadre. An officer at this level will work underguidance and supervision of a senior officer.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop an in-depth understanding of the study’s goals and activities to conduct the study
• Perform screening & consenting, enrollment, prescription of medications and follow up of participants, including medical history, physical examination and
• Document applicable study data during all study procedures
• Clinical management of ill participants and conducting clinical procedures including venipuncture, insertion of IV cannulas and collection of biological samples when necessary
• Report any adverse events to the Study Pediatrician, PI, MO and Study Coordinator
• Ensure that all the necessary documentation pertaining to screening, enrollment, follow up, clinical processes, other specific study procedures and operations are documented in the proper manner as provided for and in conformity with good clinical and documentation practice
• Respond to and resolve queries about participants’ information documented in the study files
• Adequately respond to questions about the study posed by participants and the community
• Offer basic nursing care to the study participants
• Make diagnoses and decisions on patient’s management according to study protocols and the recommended national guidelines
• Arrange laboratory tests according to study protocol
• Any other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisorThis is the entry and training grade in this cadre. An officer at this level will work underguidance and supervision of a senior officer.

Vacancy Requirements:

• Diploma in clinical medicine;    
• Registered and with a valid practicing license from the Clinical Officers Council of Kenya    
• At least 1 years combined post-internship clinical experience (working with children)    
• Computer literacy in Microsoft Office suite    
• Fluency in English and Swahili languages, both written and spoken.    
• Must be willing to reside in/within the study site (the assigned Health Facilities) in Siaya County    
• Advanced Life Support (ALS)    
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)    
• Experience working in a research study    
• Post-basic training in pediatrics will be an added advantage

Closing date 19 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure day-to-day smooth operations of administrative functions of the two projects- CVE and EFGH-Shigella studies.
• Prepare budgets for project supplies, workshops, and transport requirement.
• iManage the project vehicle mileage, update reports and coordinate vehicle maintenance
• Request and follow up purchase of supplies and services through ERP and eRequestor, ascertain goods and services are delivered on time, with stated specification, standard and verify invoices against goods received.
• Verify invoices and bills from the field offices before forwarding for payments
• Ensure project stock database is updated on a regular basis to reflect stocks received and the stock levels.
• Coordinate all logistics and supplies for the two projects
• Facilitate field and administrative activities with adherence to the study procedures
• Generate timely and accurate project invoices and financial reports as required

Vacancy Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, Commerce, Purchasing and Supplies Management or its equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.    
• Proficient in computer applications and bookkeeping    
• Fluent in English and Kiswahili, both spoken and written    
• Be self-motivated, a team player individual with sound judgement in decision making    
• Excellent planning, communication, and reporting skills    
• Work with minimal supervision and have a high standard for research ethics.

Closing date 19 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• Perform fingerpick and Venipuncture sample collection
• Perform HIV rapid testing
• Ensure adequate stock of reagents and other consumables are available and track usage
• Maintain laboratory QC/QA in the performance of assigned duties
• Record test results obtained in an organized and timely manner and write summary reports
• Document all problems encountered with samples/equipment and forward them for action
• Observe at all times GCP/GCLP to ensure quality work is attained
• Facilitate PT testing and other EQA schemes as recommended by the quality assurance officer
• Support validation of new HIV testing protocols or platforms
• Contributing to program monitoring and evaluation
• Support the laboratory in achieving and maintaining ISO 15189:2012 accreditation for medical laboratories
• Ensure proper operational procedures and laboratory safety precautions are maintained and adhered to in the laboratory required qualifications
• Willing to live and work in Gem (study site)

Vacancy Requirements:

• Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science    
• Valid practicing license from Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists where applicable    
• Proficiency in computer application    
• Minimum laboratory experience of one (1) year in a busy laboratory    
• Pleasant personality, flexibility, team player, ability to solve problems, work with minimal supervision    
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written).    
• Excellent analytical skills, presentation and problem-solving skills    
• Excellent organizational skills.    
• Excellent communication skills

Closing date 19 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• Ride the motorcycle as authorized
• Carrying out routine checks on the motorcycle
• Detecting and report malfunctioning of motorcycle system
• Maintain records of motorcycle journeys
• Ensuring security and safety of the vehicle;
• Overseeing safety of the passengers and or goods therein;
• Maintaining cleanliness of the motorcycle
• Reporting any incidents to police and/or the office immediately they occur
• Transporting samples daily from gem to Kisumu safely
• To work with closely with the study coordinator to transport samples and documentation
• Willing to live and work in Gem

Vacancy Requirements:

• Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education mean grade of D+ or its equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.    
• Valid driving license free from any current endorsements and valid for any of the classes of motorcycle which the officer is required to drive;    
• Passed the Suitability Test for Riders    
• Valid Certificate of Good Conduct from the Kenya police.    
• Proficiency in computer application

Closing date 19 May 2022

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Job Description

This is the entry and training grade in this cadre. An officer at this level will work underguidance and supervision of a senior officer

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate all issues related to investigational products importations, supply and preparation of all doses for administration/use to/by the study participants.
• Maintaining appropriate records of the receipt and disposition of investigational products and inventory of all medicines.
• Maintain a system to monitor and document storage conditions for investigational products to ensure quality of the products is not compromised.
• Manage study participant randomization process where applicable and ensure compliance to assigned treatment groups.
• Maintains the blinding of the participant’s treatment assignment to investigators, study nurses, clinic staff and participant, where required.
• Maintains the confidentiality of the participant, participant’s pharmacy file and the study drug/placebo accountability record.
• Establishes a system to ensure that the participants sign an informed consent before dispensing the drugs and the current IRB approved version of the protocol is being followed when dispensing the investigational products.
• Prepares pharmacy related standard operating procedures ensuring they meet GCP, NIH and other regulatory requirements.
• Follows established departmental policies, procedures and objectives, continuous quality improvement objectives and safety, environmental and/or infection control standards.
• Ensure compliance to established local and international pharmacy research standards and delivering acceptable monitoring reviews.
• Lead and/or support in the conduct of clinical, pharmaceutical or epidemiological research.
• Perform any other duty as assigned by the immediate supervisor.

Vacancy Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy    
• Must be licensed by the Pharmacy and poisons Board of Kenya.    
• A minimum of one (1) year clinical pharmacy or research experience.    
• Experience in clinical research activities an added advantage.    
• Knowledge of good clinical practice (GCP) and human subject protection (HSP) in research.    
• Good judgment in problem solving, awareness of own limitations and strong internal motivation.

Closing date 19 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• General Office Administration
• Response to minor emergencies such as water leakages
• Supervise Office cleaning
• Management of venues for office meetings

Vacancy Requirements:

• Diploma in Business Administration, Management, Fleet Management, Public Administration, Political Science, Sociology, or any other relevant and equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.    
• Proficiency in computer applications
• Fulfilled the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution. 
• Planning skills   
• Communication and reporting skills   
• Interpersonal skills   
• Team player

Closing date: 16 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• Developing documentation of computer programs according to instructions and specifications;
• Installing and configuring computer systems;
• Maintaining application systems;
• Training users on effective and efficient use of ICT facilities;
• Maintaining up to date equipment maintenance register;
• Installing, configuring and monitoring Local Area Network components;
• Assisting users in the Active Directory, e-mail server and User applications;
• Updating and maintaining the Institute’s website;
• Servicing and repairing ICT equipment; and
• Performing regular data and application backups

Vacancy Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in any of the following disciplines: - Information Technology, Computer Science, Computer Engineering or any other relevant and equivalent qualification from a recognized Institution;    
• Fulfil the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution    
• Analytical skills    
• Interpersonal skills    
• Communication skills    
• Team player

Closing date: 16 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• Contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies
• Participate in developing and implement marketing plans;
• marketing and promoting Institute products and services;
• Implement sales strategies and approaches for various products and services
• Responding to clients queries on products and services;
• Maintains excellent relationships with clients through superior customer service
• Tracking sales data and works to meet quotas or sales team goals
• Analyses trends, data, demographics, pricing strategies, and other information that can potentially improve marketing and sales performance
• Conducting market visits to various institutions and outlet to gather clients feedback on products and services;
• Participating in product branding; and
• Participating in developing plans for advertising sales, products and promotions

Vacancy Requirements:

• Bachelor Degree in any of the following fields: Commerce (Marketing Option), Business Administration (Marketing Option), Marketing, Business Studies or any other relevant Social Sciences from a recognized institution;    
• Membership to relevant Professional Body;    
• Proficiency in computer application;    
• Fulfil the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution.    
• Planning and Organizational skills;    
• Communication and reporting skills;    
• Interpersonal and negotiation skills;    
• Team player.

Closing date: 16 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• Participating in formulation and implementation of policy, strategy and a program of activities to enable revenue generation and mobilizing required resources;
• Participating in preparation and deployment of appropriate revenue generation contractual documents;
• Participating in periodic review of such contractual documents to suit prevailing circumstances;
• Preparing and continually reviewing a comprehensive database of current and potential clients/collaborators required to deliver KCE mandate;
• Preparing and continually reviewing a comprehensive database of current and potential funding partners required to deliver KCE mandate;
• Participating in scheduled meetings with business partners to discuss achievements, challenges and mutually agreed way-forward;
• Preparing and disseminating regular reports and updates on ongoing and prospective business partnerships and funding initiatives;
• Supervising students on short-term attachment in the department;
• Performing any other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned by the supervisor(s) from time to time

Vacancy Requirements:

• Bachelor Degree in any of the following fields: Commerce (Marketing OR Finance Option), Business Administration (Marketing OR Finance Option), Marketing, Business Studies or any other relevant Social Sciences from a recognized institution.    
• Proficiency in computer application; and    
• Fulfil the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution.    
• Communication and reporting skills;    
• Interpersonal skills;    
• Team player;

Closing date: 16 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute to designing research projects that apply valid scientific techniques and use information obtained from baselines or historical data to structure uncompromised and efficient analyses
• Assist in planning data collection methods for specific projects and determine the types and sizes of sample groups to be used
• Assist in adapting statistical methods to solve specific problems in biomedicine and other relevant fields
• Help develop and test experimental designs, sampling techniques, and analytical methods
• Provide support for analysis and interpretation of statistical data to identify significant differences in relationships among sources of information
• Participate in developing an understanding of fields to which statistical methods are to be applied to determine whether methods and results are appropriate
• Help in evaluating sources of information to determine any limitations in terms of reliability or usability
• Contribute to evaluating the statistical methods and procedures used to obtain data to ensure validity, applicability, efficiency, and accuracy
• Help identify relationships and trends in data, as well as any factors that could affect the results of research
• Participate in preparing data for processing by organizing information, checking for any inaccuracies, and adjusting and weighting the raw data
• Contribute to reporting results of statistical analyses, including information in the form of graphs, charts, and tables
• Help examine theories, such as those of probability and inference, to discover mathematical bases for new or improved methods of obtaining and evaluating numerical data
• Support in presentation of statistical and non-statistical results using charts, bullets, and graphs in meetings or conferences to audiences such as clients, peers, and students
• Assist in the processing of large amounts of data for statistical modeling and graphic analysis, using computers

Vacancy Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in the following fields: Mathematics, statistics, biostatistics, Informatics, Computer Science or equivalent qualification from a recognized Institution.    
• Proficiency in statistical software application; and    
• Fulfil the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution.    
• Analytical and report writing skills    
• Presentation skills    
• Good Team player

Closing date: 16 May 2022

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Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the implementation of research projects and/or supervising designated aspects of the work;
• Assist in carrying out fieldwork and laboratory experimental procedures;
• Carry out experimental and/or developmental work under the supervision of a Senior Research Scientist or Assistant Principal Research Scientist;
• Assist in the interpretation and validation of results;
• Guiding visiting scientific students /students on attachment
• Assisting in maintaining the scientific laboratory in good working condition; and
• In consultation with Senior Technologist, ensuring that all chemicals, reagents and consumables are properly stored in the laboratory

Vacancy Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in any of the following disciplines: Biomedical Sciences, Analytical Chemistry, Applied Sciences, Public Health, any relevant Social Science, or equivalent qualifications from a recognized Institution;    
• Proficiency in computer application;    
• Fulfil the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution.    
• Planning skills    
• Interpersonal skills    
• Team player

Closing date: 16 May 2022