KEMRI Science Communication Specialist Job Vacancy (KShs 90,603 – 146,659)
Reference Number: SCS09-2010
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 cluster, projects and events.
Reporting Lines: This role reports 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 cluster 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 cluster and key stakeholders
· Translating concepts 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 media 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 and a second degree or diploma in communication, marketing or equivalent.
· Demonstrated competence in science communication with at least three years experience in a similar position in a research or health institution.
Relationships:
In addition to working with the Cluster 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.
Application Procedure:
Candidates must supply an email and telephone contact that will be used when offering interviews.
The application closing date is 14th October 2010.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
