Assistant Research Officer (School Engagement Programme)

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in the development, implementation, and review of the School Engagement Programme’s strategic and operational plans, budgets, policies, and procedures.
• Build and maintain networks and collaborations with stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, teachers, health clubs, and other research groups.
• Plan and conduct engagement activities for Primary and Junior Schools, such as science literacy sessions, science modelling competitions, career talks, and mobile lab demonstrations.
• Contribute to capacity building by conducting stakeholder feedback sessions and evaluating school learners’ activities.
• Design and develop data collection tools, conduct data analysis, and interpret findings for reports and presentations to various stakeholders.
• Document and monitor planned engagement activities, tracking student participation and lessons learned to inform continuous innovation.
• Support the operations of the SEP team by assisting in day-to-day coordination, logistics, planning, and HR management activities.
• Ensure full compliance with all relevant internal ethical and Research Governance protocols, policies, and procedures for all research activities.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Education: Minimum Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences, Social Sciences, Communication, or any other relevant field from a recognized university (Mandatory).
• Experience: Minimum of one (1) year of experience in supporting school or young people engagement activities at a reputable institution (Mandatory).
• Specialized Knowledge: Experience working with students, research engagement, or early-career science teaching, including developing teaching/learning aids (Mandatory).
• Integrity: Demonstrated high levels of integrity and confidentiality (Mandatory).
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills (Mandatory).
• Teamwork: Ability to work with diverse, multidisciplinary teams and build strong relationships with internal and external collaborators (Mandatory).
• Analytical Skills: Excellent analytical skills and the ability to deliver quality outputs within strict timelines (Mandatory).
• Personal Attributes: Flexibility, adaptability, multi-tasking, and strong attention to detail (Mandatory).

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should apply online through the KEMRI e-recruitment portal at https://erecruitment.kemri.go.ke. Applications must be submitted by the deadline of May 27, 2026.