Essential Job Details

• Position Title: Research Grant Development Officer
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Full-Time
• Opportunity Type: Current Opening (Re-advertised)
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Salary: Not specified
• Category/Department: Research and Grants / Education
• Reporting To: Research Leadership (specific role not detailed)
• Application Deadline: Open until filled (rolling basis)

Introduction

Amref International University (AmIU), a leading institution specializing in health sciences education and research, is seeking a Research Grant Development Officer to join its team in Nairobi, Kenya, starting in 2025. This re-advertised role is critical for advancing AmIU’s research agenda, focusing on securing funding from diverse sources to support innovative health programs. Collaborating with the University of Southern California (USC) and the Institute for Inequality in Global Health (IIGH), this position is ideal for a skilled grant writer with a passion for driving evidence-based health interventions across Africa. With applications accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled, this is an urgent opportunity to contribute to AmIU’s vision of transforming into a research university by 2027.

About Amref International University

Amref International University (AmIU), an accredited institution of higher learning, is rooted in the legacy of Amref Health Africa, which boasts over 60 years of innovative health interventions. Based in Nairobi, Kenya, AmIU is committed to developing a skilled workforce and evidence that drives equitable access to primary health care across Africa. Its strategic plan for 2022-2027 aims to evolve into a research university, targeting 50% of its income from research initiatives. Through partnerships, such as with USC, AmIU fosters cutting-edge research to address Africa’s health challenges. As a Research Grant Development Officer, you’ll play a pivotal role in realizing this vision. Explore more at www.amref.ac.ke.

Key Responsibilities

• Pre-Positioning (Ongoing Strategic Alignment):
  • Collaborate with USC, IIGH, AmIU, and Amref Health Africa to identify research funding opportunities aligned with university priorities
  • Analyze and prioritize potential funding sources, preparing recommendations based on AmIU-specific go/no-go criteria to ensure strategic focus
• Grant Proposal Writing and Development (Core Proposal Crafting):
  • Partner with USC’s IIGH and AmIU faculty to respond to research opportunities, ensuring proposals meet high standards
  • Work with research teams to synthesize relevant data and draft concept notes reflecting AmIU’s research goals
  • Develop and edit grant proposals, letters of intent, and supporting documents, clearly articulating project objectives, significance, and methodologies
  • Tailor proposals to align with the specific priorities and requirements of foundations, government agencies, and international donors
  • Conduct literature reviews and synthesize findings to strengthen proposal content and credibility
• Collaboration and Coordination (Team and Partner Engagement):
  • Work closely with research teams, finance staff, and stakeholders to gather accurate and complete data for grant applications
  • Coordinate with faculty to develop program narratives, budgets, timelines, and other critical proposal elements
  • Collect country-specific and technical information to inform proposal design and content
  • Manage proposal development timelines and review processes, ensuring compliance with donor guidelines and call requirements
  • Compile and format all proposal components, including letters of support and partner information
  • Foster relationships with faculty, partners, and consultants, networking with Ministries of Health and other donors to gather intelligence and maintain an updated donor database
• Budgeting and Reporting (Financial and Progress Oversight):
  • Collaborate with USC, IIGH, AmIU, and partner finance teams to draft budgets aligned with funder requirements
  • Ensure budgets comply with institutional and donor guidelines, supporting realistic project implementation
  • Assist in generating reports, tracking milestones, and managing grant amendments post-award
• Compliance and Post-Award Support (Regulatory and Follow-Up):
  • Monitor and ensure adherence to grant compliance standards, aligning with funder requirements and AmIU policies
  • Provide post-award support, including report preparation, milestone tracking, and amendment processes to maintain funding integrity
• Capacity Building (Skill Enhancement):
  • Participate in training sessions for researchers on grant writing, aligning with funder expectations to build internal capacity

Qualifications and Skills

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Social Sciences, or related field; Master’s degree preferred
• Experience: Minimum 3 years in an academic or research institution, with significant proposal and grant writing involvement; at least 2 years responding to NIH and other funding agencies, including private foundations
• Proven Success: Track record of funded grant applications demonstrating persuasive writing and project development skills
• Technical Skills:
  • Strong research, writing, and editing abilities to communicate complex ideas effectively
  • Knowledge of budget development and grant compliance requirements
• Organizational Skills: Excellent ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines
• Preferred: Experience with international health research or partnerships, enhancing cross-cultural collaboration

Company Culture and Values

Amref International University cultivates a research-driven and collaborative culture, valuing innovation, equity, and evidence-based health solutions. As an institution aspiring to lead Africa’s health research landscape, AmIU fosters an environment where staff are empowered to drive lasting change. Committed to diversity and equal opportunity, AmIU maintains a non-smoking policy and prioritizes safeguarding. As a Research Grant Development Officer, you’ll thrive in this supportive setting, contributing to a mission that transforms health through research and education.

How to Apply

Apply now for the Research Grant Development Officer position. Submit a cover letter detailing why you are the best fit, along with your CV showcasing relevant skills and experience, via Apply for Research Grant Development Officer Jobs. This re-advertised position is open until filled, with selection on a rolling basis. Previous applicants need not reapply. Official emails will come from @amref.ac.ke or @amref.org, and no fees are charged. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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Tags

research officer, grant development, Nairobi job opportunities, health research jobs, Amref careers

Why Choose This Research Grant Development Officer Role?

A Strategic Role in Research Leadership

The Research Grant Development Officer role at Amref International University offers a chance to lead grant-writing efforts from Nairobi, Kenya, advancing AmIU’s goal of becoming a research university. This position is perfect for a skilled writer with a passion for health research, providing opportunities to secure funding, collaborate with USC, and drive evidence-based interventions across Africa.

AmIU’s Research Ambition in Nairobi

Nairobi, as AmIU’s headquarters, is a hub for health research and innovation, supporting the university’s 2022-2027 strategic plan to generate 50% of its income from research. The Research Grant Development Officer will leverage this base to strengthen partnerships and funding, enhancing Kenya’s role in global health research.

Career Benefits of the Role

This Research Grant Development Officer position offers:

• Strategic Impact: Shape AmIU’s research agenda and funding strategy
• Global Collaboration: Work with USC and IIGH on international projects
• Skill Development: Enhance grant writing and budgeting expertise
• Professional Growth: Advance in research administration
• Mission-Driven Work: Support equitable health care access

The role provides a platform for a rewarding career in research and grants management.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities in Detail

As a Research Grant Development Officer, your daily tasks will include:

• Funding Scouting: Identify and prioritize funding opportunities with USC and AmIU teams
• Proposal Crafting: Draft and edit grant proposals, tailoring them to donor requirements
• Team Coordination: Gather data and collaborate with faculty and finance staff
• Budget Development: Work with finance teams to create compliant budgets
• Compliance Monitoring: Ensure adherence to funder and institutional guidelines
• Capacity Building: Train researchers on grant writing best practices

These tasks ensure a robust research funding pipeline and project success.

Technical and Soft Skills Development

The Research Grant Development Officer role hones a range of skills, including:

• Writing Skills: Master persuasive grant proposals and concept notes
• Research Abilities: Conduct literature reviews and synthesize data
• Project Management: Coordinate timelines and multiple projects
• Interpersonal Skills: Build relationships with faculty and donors
• Analytical Skills: Assess funding opportunities and compliance
• Training Expertise: Develop researcher capacity

These skills are transferable to research, grants, and academic administration roles.

Why Nairobi?

Nairobi, a thriving research and educational hub, is ideal for the Research Grant Development Officer role. Its strategic location supports AmIU’s Pan-African outreach, offering networking with health and academic institutions and a dynamic professional community.

Industry Trends in Health Research Funding

Africa’s health research sector is growing, with increased focus on grant funding for climate health, infectious diseases, and equity. The demand for skilled grant writers is rising, driven by global health priorities and AmIU’s research ambitions. As a Research Grant Development Officer, you’ll lead these efforts, enhancing AmIU’s research impact.

Application Tips

To stand out for the Research Grant Development Officer role:

• Highlight Experience: Emphasize 3+ years in grant writing, especially with NIH
• Showcase Success: Detail funded proposals and collaboration experience
• Craft a Cover Letter: Explain your fit for AmIU’s research vision
• Include Skills: Highlight writing, budgeting, and organizational abilities
• Apply Promptly: Submit via Apply for Research Grant Development Officer Jobs on a rolling basis

Work Environment and Culture

AmIU offers a collaborative and research-focused work environment, valuing innovation and equity. As a Research Grant Development Officer, you’ll work with a diverse team, supported by a non-smoking, equal-opportunity workplace committed to safeguarding.

How This Role Contributes to Africa’s Development

By joining as a Research Grant Development Officer, you’ll secure funding for health research, aligning with AmIU’s mission and Africa’s Agenda 2063. Your work will drive evidence-based interventions, enhancing equitable health care access across the continent.

Networking and Professional Growth

The Research Grant Development Officer role offers connections with USC, IIGH, Ministries of Health, and research networks. Engaging with groups like the African Academy of Sciences can boost your career, with Nairobi’s hub status providing a platform for a continental network.

The Importance of Timing

With today’s date being July 2, 2025, at 07:13 PM EAT, the rolling application process allows flexibility. Acting quickly ensures your application is reviewed early, increasing your chances in this competitive re-advertised role.

Long-Term Impact and Fulfillment

This role offers a chance to impact Africa’s health through research funding, aligning with AmIU’s vision. The fulfillment from supporting equitable health solutions can enhance your professional journey, providing a sense of purpose and achievement.

Challenges and Rewards

Challenges include meeting tight deadlines and navigating donor complexities, balanced by rewards like collaborating with global partners and seeing funded projects succeed. These experiences will build your resilience and expertise.

Support and Resources

AmIU provides access to research tools, USC collaboration, and training resources. As a Research Grant Development Officer, you’ll have support to excel, backed by a network of health research experts.

Community and Partnership Engagement

This role involves engaging with faculty, donors, and health ministries, strengthening AmIU’s research community. Organizing workshops or donor meetings will enhance your networking and event management skills.

Future Career Pathways

Skills gained here open doors to Research Director roles at AmIU, grants management in NGOs, or academic leadership positions, leveraging your expertise in a growing research field.

Final Call to Action

Don’t miss the opportunity to join Amref International University as a Research Grant Development Officer in Nairobi. Apply now via Apply for Research Grant Development Officer Jobs on a rolling basis. Drive AmIU’s research future and advance your career in health research funding.