Senior Research Scientist at Kenya Medical Research – KEMRI

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, execute, and optimize molecular biology, NGS, and bioinformatics experiments under the supervision of the Principal Investigator.
• Analyze complex datasets from a wide range of vectors (including mosquitoes, sand-flies, ticks, fleas, chigger mites, and bat flies) and vector-borne pathogens using advanced genomic and bioinformatics tools.
• Develop, validate, and implement molecular assays, including genotyping, metagenomics, and whole-genome sequence analyses.
• Train and mentor students, interns, and technical staff in molecular techniques, sequencing workflows, and data analysis.
• Operate, maintain, and ensure calibration of molecular and sequencing laboratory equipment, adhering to quality assurance, biosafety, and infection control standards.
• Identify and recommend laboratory needs, including equipment, consumables, and relevant computational resources (hardware and software).
• Develop, document, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), experiment records, and quality documentation for molecular and bioinformatics platforms.
• Contribute to research planning and proposal development, including project design, data interpretation, and validation of results.
• Prepare technical reports, manuscripts, and presentations for dissemination to stakeholders and publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Support collaborative research efforts, including participation in defining research problems, implementing approved projects, and supervising visiting scientists or students.

Vacancy Requirements:

• At least four (4) years of relevant work experience, including a minimum of three (3) years of active experience in molecular biology, genomics, and work involving vector-borne pathogens, vectors, and insecticide resistance mechanisms.    Mandatory
• Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences, Analytical Chemistry, Applied Sciences, Public Health, Biotechnology, any relevant Social Science, or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.    Mandatory
• Master’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences, Analytical Chemistry, Applied Sciences, Public Health, Biotechnology, or any other related and relevant field from an accredited institution.    Mandatory
• Supervisory Course lasting not less than two (2) weeks from a recognized institution.    Mandatory
• Developed at least eight (8) research proposals, at least four (4) of which have been funded.    Mandatory
• Published at least four (4) articles in refereed journals, with at least two (2) as the first or lead author.    Mandatory
• Demonstrated experience with molecular and genomic techniques, including multiple sequencing platforms such as Sanger, Illumina, and Nanopore, with the ability to analyze and interpret sequencing data.    Mandatory
• Experience with sand-fly viromes will be considered a strong advantage.    Added Advantage
• Strong knowledge of bioinformatics, with the ability to write and execute code, and develop custom analysis suites for research projects.    Mandatory
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and data visualization using R and Python, with experience working in Unix/Linux environments.    Mandatory
• Solid understanding of laboratory operations and procedures related to molecular biology and genomics.    Mandatory
• Proven proficiency in computer applications and data management tools.    Mandatory
• Ability to work independently and execute duties with minimal supervision, demonstrating strong organizational and analytical skills.    Mandatory
• Strong molecular biology skills, including DNA and RNA extraction, conventional and real-time PCR, and library preparation    Mandatory
• Skilled in genomic data processing    Mandatory
• Planning and Organization Skills    Mandatory
• Communication and reporting skills    Mandatory
• Interpersonal skills    Mandatory
• proficiency in computer applications.    Mandatory