Employer: KEMRI
Application deadline: 23 Feb 2026
Job Type: Full time
Job Grade: 10
Location: Nairobi
KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme – Kemri-Wellcome Trust, 197 Lenana Rd, Nairobi, Kenya
We have a new opportunity for a Deputy Director to join the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP), playing a leading role in the management of the Programme and sharing joint responsibility with the Director for the development of its strategic direction.
Responsibilities
You will take on the role of Director of the Nairobi Programme and will be responsible for:
- Initiating and implementing key elements of the Core platform, including leading funding applications and representing KWTRP to funders.
- Managing substantial research resources and budgets,
- Conceiving and delivering long-term, often interdisciplinary research programmes,
- Developing new research concepts and ideas that advance scientific strategy and intellectual understanding.
- Generate research income, and actively promote priority research areas,
- Establishing overall research strategy, including fostering cross-disciplinary initiatives, creating opportunities for other Principal Investigators, and supporting the training and development of early-career scientists.
Qualifications
To be successful in this role, you will:
- Hold a PhD or DPhil in a relevant discipline and have significant post-qualification research experience, including extensive senior management experience.
- Be a recognised international authority in your research area, with an established record of high-quality publications and a proven ability to attract independent funding.
- Experience of leading and managing research projects, staff and budgets is essential, as is the expertise to develop new research directions and lead major research programmes.
- Bring excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills, strong analytical and strategic thinking, and the ability to operate with high levels of integrity and confidentiality.
This role is ideally suited to a highly motivated individual with the vision, leadership and credibility to help sustain and strengthen the world-leading position of KWTRP.
How To Apply
- Applications for this vacancy should be made online and must include a CV and a supporting statement explaining how you meet the selection criteria, using examples of your skills and experience.
- Apply Here: https://my.corehr.com/pls/uoxrecruit/erq_job_package.navigate_to_job
- This position is offered on a full-time basis on a fixed-term contract until 30 September 2030, and funded by the Wellcome Core.
- Only applications received before 12 midday (GMT) on 23 February 2026 will be considered. Please quote reference 183722 in all correspondence.
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