Head of Clinical Research

University of Oxford - KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP), PO Box 80108-230, Botha Road, Kilifi, Kenya

The KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP) is seeking an outstanding clinical scientist and leader to take up the role of Head of Clinical Research, a senior appointment with responsibility for shaping and delivering the Programme’s clinical research strategy. The post holder will contribute to Programme-wide scientific decision-making while maintaining an active, independent research portfolio as a Principal Investigator.

Working as part of the senior leadership team, you will lead the clinical research strategy, oversee the clinical trials and clinical services platforms, and guide the development of new, often interdisciplinary research initiatives. You will hold responsibility for departmental planning and budgeting, make key strategic decisions affecting clinical research activities and infrastructure, and ensure effective integration with other departments and partners. The role also involves line management of senior clinical research staff, mentoring early-career scientists, contributing to postgraduate training, supporting collaborative grant development, and building strong, equitable partnerships with local and international institutions, alongside limited public engagement and mandatory training responsibilities.

Applicants must be medically qualified and registered to practise in Kenya, hold a PhD or DPhil in public health, epidemiology or a related field, and have significant post-qualification research experience, including senior leadership at departmental level. You will be an established scientific leader with a strong track record of leading clinical trials, securing grant funding, and publishing high-quality research, combined with excellent strategic, management and communication skills.

This role offers an exceptional opportunity for a motivated and credible leader to strengthen and advance KWTRP’s clinical research agenda and impact.

Applications for this vacancy should be made online and you will need to upload a supporting statement and CV. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience.

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract until 30 September 2030, and is funded by the Wellcome Core.

Only applications received before 12 midday on Monday 23 February 2026 will be considered. Please quote 183684 on all correspondence.