KEMRI Science Communication Specialist (Re-Advertised) Job in Kilifi

Reference Number: SCS1-11

Category: Media, Communications and PR

Salary: 90,603 - 146,659 (Dependent on qualification and experience)

Grade: 5.1 - 5.15

Location: Kilifi

Country: Kenya

Summary:

The position holder will be responsible for planning, implementation, management, and evaluation of research and public health communication and marketing programs and campaigns for the department, projects and events.

Reporting Lines: The post holder will report to the Cluster Manager

Key Responsibilities:
• Interacting with stakeholders and managing relationships with researchers, science writers, media specialists, communication specialists, and designers in developing and implementing local, national and international level programs and outreach and educational initiatives.
• Conducting needs assessment to determine information requirements, developing information databank and developing and implementing communication strategies
• Gathering data for refining messages, and identifying appropriate communication channels for delivering these messages to ensure maximum impact
• Acting as information intermediary for projects and the department and identifying appropriate sources of relevant information, gathering, developing and disseminating communication and marketing materials to fulfill the specific information needs of the projects, the department and key stakeholders
• Translating concepts, scientific papers and messages into effective written and graphic communications with different and effective communications tools and methods
• Managing communication budget and preparing regular status reports on the impact of the strategies employed and the perception of the projects through a feedback system
• Developing and maintaining regular and frequent interaction with government officers in various government departments and providing support as necessitated by the needs of the projects and the cluster
• Presenting technical information to different audiences via powerful media channels and in presentations at local and international conferences
• Assist and providing support to the communication groups in the Programme
Skills and Competence:
• A combination of well-developed oral, written, and communication skills, along with an understanding of the way the research and health systems operate
• Ability to analyse and interpret research information and write/edit research publications
• Demonstrated experience working with diverse audiences, developing and implementing complex programs and outreach initiatives
• Be innovative and possess a sense of energy, passion and commitment to building long term relationships with colleagues
• Strong leadership skills, multi-tasking and managing multiple projects simultaneously

• Be a team player with ability to consult, prioritise and organise effectively
• Proficiency in desktop publishing and project management

Qualifications and Experience:
• Degree in sciences or equivalent with demonstrated competence in science communication with at least 2 years experience in a similar position in a research or health institution.
• A diploma in communication or equivalent will be an added advantage.
In addition to working with the department team, the position holder will work closely with the communications group of the Programme to ensure harmony and integration of methods and messages.

In addition, he/she will be expected to interact with other stakeholders. Internally, these include the Programmes Operations support team and the DSS. Externally, these include the Ministry of Health, training institutions, the Department of Health Promotion, the Department of Vaccines at the World Health Organization, the study funders (GAVI Alliance and the Pneumococcal ADIP), UNICEF, Local Councils, District Administrators, DMOH, donors and the public at large.

How to apply

Visit KEMRI career site here to apply

Candidates must supply an email and telephone contact that will be used when offering interviews. The application closing date is 4th February 2011. Candidates who applied for the post earlier do not need to re-apply. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.