Co-Site Director/Principal Investigator - CHAMPS Kenya

Reference: NOV20240119

Location: Kenya

Salary: Competitive

Benefits: To be discussed

Duration: Initially until July 2025 - option for 5 year extension (subject to funding)

Introduction to CHAMPS

CHAMPS is a ground breaking 20-year initiative that began in 2015, encompassing eight high-burden countries across Africa and Asia. Funded by the Gates Foundation and coordinated by Emory University, this project aims to identify and track definitive causes of stillbirths and child deaths through robust community engagement, cutting-edge mortality surveillance, diagnostic and laboratory innovation, and rapid, open access to data.

What is the role?

As the CHAMPS Kenya PI and Co-Site Director you will assume a pivotal leadership role for overseeing and coordinating programmatic and scientific activities within the CHAMPS project in Kenya.

As part of an innovative multi-country collaboration, you will work at the forefront of child mortality research, partnering with prestigious institutions, including the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Emory University in Atlanta, GA, USA.

This role presents an unparalleled opportunity to conduct pivotal research, address pressing public health concerns, and make a lasting impact on global child health. With its extended timeline, substantial funding, and collaborative nature, this position stands out as a very compelling opportunity for those interested in global health research today.

What are we looking for?

The successful candidate will bring a unique blend of medical expertise, research acumen, and leadership skills to this pivotal role. They will be adept at navigating the complexities of international collaborations and driving forward innovative research in a long-term, well-funded project environment. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead a transformative, long-term research initiative with far-reaching impact on child health in Kenya and beyond. The successful candidate will blend scientific expertise with strategic leadership to drive forward this crucial work.

What are the key responsibilities?

Spearhead programmatic and scientific activities within the CHAMPS project in Kenya, ensuring alignment with the project's ambitious goals

Foster collaboration across international partners, serving as the primary liaison between the local site, the CHAMPS Program Office at Emory University, and other key stakeholders

Cultivate partnerships with local collaborators, including KEMRI, LSTM, CDC, the Henry Jackson Foundation (HJFMRI), Washington State University, and others

Lead strategic planning for the CHAMPS programme, with the unique opportunity to influence long-term research directions

Oversee clinical assessment of causes of death, leveraging cutting-edge diagnostic techniques

Manage and mentor a diverse team of researchers and support staff

Oversee financial mechanisms, ensuring optimal use of the project's substantial resources

Design and implement innovative sub-studies and operational research, with the freedom to explore pressing public health questions

Conduct routine programme evaluation to ensure continued excellence and impact

Provide expert technical assistance and guidance to the Kenya Ministry of Health and collaborators, influencing national health policy

Maintain regular communication with the CHAMPS programme office, ensuring seamless integration with the broader multi-country initiative

Write research grants, analyse data, and author study reports and manuscripts for scientific publication

This comprehensive list of responsibilities reflects the breadth and depth of this unique role, emphasising both its scientific leadership and collaborative nature.

What do you need to demonstrate?

Medical qualification (UK MBBS or equivalent)

Master’s degree in public health or related field

Previous experience of conducting public health research as a principal or co-investigator

Extensive public health experience in child health-related disease management

Previous experience working with ministries of health in developing countries

Previous clinical experience in paediatric care

Proven ability to lead and motivate a large, diverse team across multiple sites and complex programmes

For a full list of the essential criteria for this role, please view the attached job description. 

Application process: to apply for this role, please submit your CV via the ‘apply’ link.