14 Career Opportunities At Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI): Join Our Research Team In Mtwapa, Kilifi

Posted: August 13, 2025
Deadline: August 30, 2025
Location: Mtwapa, Kilifi, Kenya

The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a state corporation established under the Science and Technology (Amendment) Act of 1979, amended by the Science, Technology and Innovation Act of 2013, as the national body responsible for health research in Kenya. Committed to advancing scientific knowledge and improving public health, the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) operates multiple research centers, including its Mtwapa facility in Kilifi, where it conducts cutting-edge clinical trials and health studies. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) invites qualified professionals to join its mission of transforming lives through research excellence, offering exciting career opportunities in Mtwapa, Kilifi.

Important Note: Never pay for any CBT, test, or assessment as part of any recruitment process. When in doubt, contact the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) for clarification.

Open Positions at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)

The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is seeking talented individuals to fill the following contract-based roles at its Mtwapa center in Kilifi. These positions support the institute’s mission to conduct high-impact health research, ensuring compliance with ethical and regulatory standards while advancing scientific discovery.

Accountant – Mtwapa
Data/ICT Assistant – Mtwapa (3 Posts)
Office Assistant – Mtwapa (3 Posts)
Senior Laboratory Technologist – Mtwapa (2 Posts)
Pharmaceutical Technologist – Mtwapa
Quality Assurance Officer – Mtwapa (3 Posts)
Registered Nurse – Mtwapa

1. Accountant – Mtwapa

Job Type: Full Time
Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce (Accounting or Finance option), Business Administration (Accounting option), or equivalent
Experience: Not specified
Location: Mtwapa, Kilifi
Job Field: Finance / Accounting / Audit
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025

Job Summary

The Accountant role at the Mtwapa center of the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is essential for ensuring financial integrity in clinical research projects. This position involves developing budgets, monitoring expenses, and preparing financial reports to support research activities. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) seeks a meticulous professional to maintain compliance with institutional policies, grant conditions, and regulatory standards, ensuring the financial success of its research initiatives.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Budget Development and Monitoring

Develop detailed project budgets based on proposed activities and resources, ensuring cost-effective allocation for research initiatives.
Monitor and control expenses to keep projects within budget limits, maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Advise principal investigators on financial planning and resource allocation to optimize project outcomes, aligning with institutional goals.
Evaluate cost-effectiveness of expenditures, ensuring efficient use of funds for clinical trials.
Forecast financial needs for ongoing and future projects, supporting strategic planning efforts at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Financial Record-Keeping

Record and track all financial transactions related to research projects, maintaining accurate and detailed records.
Ensure expenses are documented with receipts and supporting documents, adhering to transparency standards.
Maintain primary financial records, including cashbooks, ledgers, and vote books, to support auditing processes.
Prepare management reports, such as imprest and expenditure returns, for internal and external stakeholders.
Reconcile financial data to ensure consistency across project accounts, minimizing discrepancies.

Reporting and Compliance

Prepare periodic financial reports detailing expenditures, commitments, and available funds, ensuring clarity for funders.
Assist in preparing financial sections of progress and final reports for donors, meeting grant requirements.
Generate donor invoices and receipt funds, budgeting them in study accounts to support research operations.
Ensure financial activities comply with institutional policies, grant conditions, and regulations, as mandated by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).
Conduct internal audits to verify financial accuracy, supporting accountability in research projects.

Payment Processing

Prepare payment and revenue vouchers, submitting them for processing in accordance with established rules.
Enter revenue and expense entries into financial systems, ensuring precision and timeliness.
Monitor payment timelines to avoid delays, maintaining operational efficiency for research activities.

Key Outputs/Deliverables/KPIs

Accurate and compliant project budgets, supporting efficient resource management.
Timely and comprehensive financial reports, ensuring transparency for stakeholders.
Efficient payment processing and record-keeping, contributing to operational excellence.
Full compliance with grant and regulatory requirements, reflecting the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)’s accountability standards.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce (Accounting or Finance option), Business Administration (Accounting option), or equivalent from a recognized institution.
Proficiency in computer applications, including financial software, to manage project accounts effectively.
Fulfillment of Chapter Six (6) of the Constitution, ensuring ethical conduct.
Strong planning, analytical, communication, interpersonal, and team-playing skills, as required by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Apply Now: Join Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) as an Accountant in Mtwapa – Research Finance Careers

2. Data/ICT Assistant – Mtwapa (3 Posts)

Job Type: Contract
Qualification: Diploma in Health Records, Information Technology, Information Science, or related field
Experience: 1 year in a clinical trial or research setting
Location: Mtwapa, Kilifi
Job Field: Data, Business Analysis and AI / ICT / Computer
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025

Job Summary

The Data/ICT Assistant at the Mtwapa center supports the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)’s clinical trials by ensuring accurate data management and ICT support. This role involves entering data, maintaining records, and troubleshooting technical issues to uphold data integrity. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) seeks professionals to enhance the efficiency and reliability of its research data systems.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Data Management

Enter data from Case Report Forms (CRFs) into Electronic Data Capture (EDC) systems with high accuracy to support clinical trials.
Perform source data verification and resolve discrepancies to ensure data quality and reliability.
Maintain up-to-date CRF tracking logs, visit logs, and query resolution logs to streamline data processes.
Organize and securely store physical participant files and trial source documents, ensuring confidentiality.
Ensure data handling complies with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and data protection guidelines, as mandated by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

ICT Support

Provide first-level ICT support, troubleshooting data entry devices (scanners, tablets, desktops) and connectivity issues to maintain operational continuity.
Report ICT issues to the Data/ICT Manager and follow up on ticket resolution to ensure timely fixes.
Assist in configuring and performing routine checks on EDC hardware and peripherals to support data collection.
Support the management and inventory of the data archive room, ensuring organized storage systems.

Compliance and Audits

Prepare and retrieve files for internal monitoring, sponsor audits, and regulatory inspections, ensuring audit-readiness.
Maintain accurate records of data processes to support transparency in research activities.
Collaborate with research teams to ensure data integrity, contributing to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)’s research excellence.

Key Outputs/Deliverables/KPIs

Accurate and timely data entry, ensuring reliable research data.
Comprehensive data and ICT logs, supporting transparency in data management.
Effective resolution of ICT issues, maintaining operational efficiency.
Audit-ready data systems, contributing to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)’s compliance goals.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

Diploma in Health Records, Information Technology, Information Science, or related field.
At least 1 year of experience in a clinical trial or research setting, as recognized by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).
DBMS skills (data cleaning, query resolution, normalization) and proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Familiarity with EDC platforms (e.g., REDCap, OpenClinica) is an advantage.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and ethical skills to support research teams.

Apply Now: Data/ICT Assistant Role at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Mtwapa – Research Data Careers

3. Office Assistant – Mtwapa (3 Posts)

Job Type: Contract
Qualification: Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) Mean Grade D or equivalent
Experience: Not specified
Location: Mtwapa, Kilifi
Job Field: Administration / Secretarial
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025

Job Summary

The Office Assistant at the Mtwapa center provides administrative and logistical support for the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)’s research operations. This role involves managing office tasks, coordinating logistics, and maintaining a clean environment to ensure a professional workplace. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) seeks dedicated individuals to support its research activities through efficient administrative services.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Administrative Support

Prepare and manage sign-in sheets, appointment logs, and visit records to track research activities accurately.
Handle inquiries in person, via phone, or email, directing them to appropriate personnel promptly.
Assist in printing, photocopying, and organizing trial-related documents to support research operations.
Distribute internal communications, meeting notices, or updates to keep staff informed.
Record and dispatch letters, files, and documents, ensuring efficient communication flow.

Logistics and Office Management

Maintain logs for participant visits, courier shipments, and office supplies to ensure resource availability.
Issue visitor badges and maintain security logs to uphold workplace safety standards.
Coordinate refreshments and logistics for study meetings or training sessions to facilitate smooth operations.
Coordinate participant transport reimbursement, keeping detailed records for financial accountability.

Facility Maintenance

Clean offices and compounds to maintain a professional and hygienic environment.
Plant, weed, and prune gardens to ensure a tidy facility, supporting workplace aesthetics.
Collect, assemble, and dispose of waste, adhering to environmental responsibility standards.
Perform additional office tasks as assigned to support research activities at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Key Outputs/Deliverables/KPIs

Accurate administrative records, ensuring efficient tracking of research activities.
Effective coordination of office logistics, supporting seamless operations.
Clean and organized work environment, reflecting professional standards.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

KCSE Mean Grade D or equivalent from a recognized institution.
Proficiency in computer applications to support administrative tasks.
Strong organizational, public relations, communication (English and Kiswahili), and interpersonal skills, as required by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Apply Now: Office Assistant Role at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Mtwapa – Research Support Careers

4. Senior Laboratory Technologist – Mtwapa (2 Posts)

Job Type: Contract
Qualification: Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences, Laboratory Sciences, Laboratory Technology, or equivalent
Experience: 4 years, with 3 years in a clinical trial or research setting (preferred)
Location: Mtwapa, Kilifi
Job Field: Science
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025

Job Summary

The Senior Laboratory Technologist at the Mtwapa center oversees laboratory operations for the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)’s clinical trials. This role involves processing specimens, conducting analyses, and ensuring quality control to support high-quality research outcomes. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) seeks experienced professionals to maintain laboratory excellence and compliance.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Specimen Processing and Analysis

Receive, label, process, and store biological specimens per study protocols and Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) standards to ensure accuracy.
Perform routine and specialized analyses (e.g., hematology, biochemistry, microbiology) to support clinical trial protocols.
Record and report test results accurately, entering data into clinical trial databases promptly.
Ensure timely dispatch of test results to study teams to meet research timelines.
Prepare and package samples for domestic and international shipment per IATA regulations, ensuring compliance with the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Quality Control and Compliance

Maintain strict adherence to quality control procedures, calibration schedules, and equipment maintenance to ensure reliable results.
Ensure laboratory procedures meet regulatory, ethical, and sponsor requirements, including proper handling of SOPs and deviation reports.
Monitor lab supplies and reagents, ensuring adequate stock levels and validated materials.

Biosafety and Training

Adhere to biosafety and infection control protocols to maintain a safe laboratory environment.
Participate in training sessions, internal audits, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance laboratory operations.
Train junior staff on laboratory procedures to build capacity within the research team, as supported by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Key Outputs/Deliverables/KPIs

Accurate and timely laboratory results, supporting research reliability.
Compliant and audit-ready laboratory operations, ensuring regulatory adherence.
Safe and efficient laboratory environment, contributing to operational excellence.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences, Laboratory Sciences, Laboratory Technology, or equivalent.
Valid practicing license from the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board.
4 years of relevant experience, with 3 years in a clinical trial setting preferred.
Fulfillment of Chapter Six of the Constitution, ensuring ethical conduct.
Strong analytical, communication, interpersonal, and team-playing skills, as required by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Apply Now: Senior Laboratory Technologist Role at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Mtwapa – Research Lab Careers

5. Pharmaceutical Technologist – Mtwapa

Job Type: Contract
Qualification: Diploma in Pharmaceutical Technology or equivalent
Experience: 3 years in clinical research
Location: Mtwapa, Kilifi
Job Field: Pharmaceutical
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025

Job Summary

The Pharmaceutical Technologist at the Mtwapa center manages the dispensing and storage of investigational products for the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)’s clinical trials. This role ensures accurate medication records and compliance with protocols to support research integrity. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) seeks a skilled professional to maintain a compliant pharmacy environment.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Medication Dispensing and Management

Dispense investigational products, compounded medicines, and concomitant medications per protocol to ensure participant safety.
Maintain accurate participant medication records, adhering to Good Clinical Practice standards.
Conduct quality checks on investigational products, verifying packaging integrity and compliance.
Educate research staff on proper medication handling to ensure safe administration.

Supply Chain and Compliance

Order, receive, and reconcile pharmaceutical supplies, ensuring accountability and availability.
Manage the return or destruction of unused or expired products per regulatory guidelines.
Support the development of study-specific SOPs and pharmacy documentation to streamline operations.
Ensure proper custody and storage of study drugs, maintaining a compliant pharmacy environment, as mandated by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Reporting and Audits

Report discrepancies, deviations, or adverse events related to investigational products promptly.
Maintain an audit-ready pharmacy environment, ensuring readiness for inspections.
Perform additional pharmacy-related duties as assigned to support research objectives.

Key Outputs/Deliverables/KPIs

Accurate dispensing and record-keeping, ensuring participant safety and data integrity.
Compliant pharmacy operations, meeting regulatory and sponsor requirements.
Efficient management of pharmaceutical supplies, supporting research continuity.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

Diploma in Pharmaceutical Technology or equivalent from a recognized institution.
Registration Certificate from the Pharmacy and Poisons Board.
3 years of experience in clinical research, as recognized by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).
Proficiency in computer applications and strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Apply Now: Pharmaceutical Technologist Role at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Mtwapa – Research Pharmacy Careers

6. Quality Assurance Officer – Mtwapa (3 Posts)

Job Type: Contract
Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences, Nursing, Health Sciences, or related field
Experience: 1 year in clinical research or quality management
Location: Mtwapa, Kilifi
Job Field: Medical / Healthcare
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025

Job Summary

The Quality Assurance Officer at the Mtwapa center ensures compliance with study protocols and regulatory standards for the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)’s clinical trials. This role involves monitoring quality, training staff, and supporting audits to uphold research integrity. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) seeks professionals to maintain high-quality research standards.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Compliance and Monitoring

Ensure adherence to ICH-GCP, local regulations, and ethical standards to protect trial integrity.
Monitor compliance with study protocols and SOPs, identifying deviations for corrective action.
Implement Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) to address non-compliances or risks.
Conduct daily quality checks and resolve errors to maintain operational efficiency.

Training and Audits

Train clinical trial staff on GCP, SOPs, and QA best practices to enhance research quality.
Support inspection readiness for audits by regulatory authorities and sponsors, ensuring compliance.
Conduct internal audits and follow-up on quality compliance to address findings promptly.
Provide ongoing QA guidance to research teams, fostering a culture of excellence at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Quality Improvement

Develop quality improvement initiatives based on audit findings and process reviews.
Identify and escalate quality issues affecting trial integrity to ensure timely resolution.
Assist in preparing projects for quality assurance monitoring to support research objectives.

Key Outputs/Deliverables/KPIs

Compliant and audit-ready quality systems, meeting regulatory standards.
Effective staff training on QA practices, enhancing research quality.
Comprehensive quality improvement initiatives, supporting research excellence.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences, Nursing, Health Sciences, or related field.
1 year of experience in clinical research or quality management.
Proficiency in computer applications and strong planning, analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills, as required by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Apply Now: Quality Assurance Officer Role at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Mtwapa – Research Quality Careers

7. Registered Nurse – Mtwapa

Job Type: Full Time
Qualification: Diploma in Kenya Registered Community Health Nursing, Nursing, Midwifery, or equivalent
Experience: Experience in clinical trials (preferred)
Location: Mtwapa, Kilifi
Job Field: Medical / Healthcare
Application Deadline: August 30, 2025

Job Summary

The Registered Nurse at the Mtwapa center provides high-quality nursing care for the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)’s clinical trial participants. This role involves assessing health needs, administering care, and maintaining records to ensure patient-centered care. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) seeks compassionate professionals to support its research objectives.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Patient Care

Assess patients and establish healthcare needs to inform care plans.
Plan and implement care interventions based on health needs to ensure participant well-being.
Administer medications and provide health education to address identified needs.
Offer counseling on health and socio-economic issues to support participants holistically.
Refer patients appropriately to ensure seamless care coordination.

Clinical Environment and Records

Ensure a tidy and safe clinical environment to maintain high standards of care.
Maintain safe custody of nursing equipment and records to ensure operational efficiency.
Adhere to infection prevention control measures to protect participants and staff.
Document patient interactions accurately to support data integrity in clinical trials.

Compliance and Support

Support clinical trial activities, ensuring compliance with regulatory protocols.
Collaborate with research teams to deliver high-quality care, supporting research objectives.
Participate in training and quality assurance activities to enhance clinical practices at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Key Outputs/Deliverables/KPIs

High-quality patient care, ensuring participant safety and well-being.
Accurate and secure clinical records, supporting data integrity.
Safe and compliant clinical environment, contributing to research excellence.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

Diploma in Kenya Registered Community Health Nursing, Nursing, Midwifery, or equivalent.
Registration Certificate and valid practicing license from the Nursing Council of Kenya.
Experience in clinical trials is an advantage.
Proficiency in computer applications and strong analytical, communication, managerial, and interpersonal skills, as required by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

Apply Now: Registered Nurse Role at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Mtwapa – Research Nursing Careers

Method of Application

To apply for these opportunities, use the optimized links provided for each position. Ensure your application aligns with the qualifications and responsibilities outlined, reflecting the commitment to a transparent and ethical hiring process at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI). The institute does not charge for any recruitment-related activities, ensuring compliance with industry standards.