IDeAL Communication Officer at KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP)

Job Description

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The KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP) is based within the KEMRI Centre for Geographic Medical Research – (Coast). Our core activities are funded by the Wellcome Trust. We conduct integrated epidemiological, social, laboratory and clinical research in parallel, with results feeding into local and international health policy. Our research platforms include state-of-the-art laboratories, a demographic surveillance system covering a quarter of a million residents, partnership with Kilifi County Hospital in health care and hospital surveillance, a clinical trials facility, a vibrant community engagement programme and a dedicated training facility.

JOB PURPOSE: 

The Initiative to Develop African Research Leaders (IDeAL) is a consortium of seven institutional partners (KWTRP, Pwani university, Strathmore university, Glasgow university, Oxford university, CIDRZ and Epicentre) funded by the Wellcome Trust through the Science for Africa Foundation and hosted by KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP). IDeAL’s primary goal is to build capacity for quality scientific research leadership in Africa through research career mentorship and training schemes ranging from attachments for school leavers and undergraduates to Postgraduate diploma, Masters, PhD and postdoctoral studentships/fellowships. The Communication Officer will be responsible for planning, developing and implementing communication strategies and tools for the consortium; raise awareness, understanding and visibility of the consortia’s research, training and capacity development activities – among other duties (and as assigned).

REPORTS TO:  TRAINING PROGRAMME MANAGER

BUDGET AND RESOURCE RESPONSIBILITY: NONE

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Formulate and implement communication strategies, tools and information exchange protocols Develop communication products and visibility materials including newsletters, brochures, videos, posters, case studies, communication briefs (etc) Manage departmental digital and social media platforms – handling interactions and responses Support community, stakeholder and policy engagement in science communication Engage relevant local, national and international media as required Maintain and update departmental website functions and information therein Support departmental audit, data protection and reporting processes Maintain departmental communication library including audio, video and picture recordings Support any other duties as required

REQUIREMENTS

QUALIFICATIONS:

A Bachelor’s degree in communication, journalism, public relations, science communication, or any related field Minimum three years relevant experience Training and experience in digital design, high quality video production, photography and publishing software Experience in designing, editing and managing websites and institutional publications and, writing in a variety of styles to suit different media and audiences. Familiarity with and experience in methodologies, processes and systems for communication, knowledge and information management in institutions including the use of digital technologies. Excellent familiarity with modern and best practice approaches to communication, knowledge exchange and information management. Computer literacy with proficiency in presentation, publishing and image editing software among other relevant computer applications. Membership to relevant professional bodies e.g. PRSK, MESHA Kenya

DESIRED:

Experience in science communication and in development and implementation of electronic systems and services for knowledge and information management for research institutions – including professional writing. Previous knowledge and experience with communication outreach and public engagement across diverse stakeholders. Knowledge of current communication trends and previous experience in state-of-the-art communication tools including TV, film, animation, radio, print and online media. Previous experience in managing communication for public events including seminars, conferences, workshops, open days, webinars, etc. Demonstrable knowledge of and engagement with diverse media influencers and personalities (TV, radio, print, etc). Excellent command of both English and French languages

COMPETENCIES:

Demonstrate high levels of integrity and confidentiality Excellent interpersonal, written, presentation and communication skills Basic analytical, problem solving and critical thinking skills Team working and ability to work in diverse teams and cultures Flexibility, adaptability, multi-tasking and attention to detail