Clinical Officer (Full Time) – Kisumu, Kenya

Clinical Officer (Full Time) – Kisumu, Kenya

• Posted: September 23, 2024
• Application Deadline: September 30, 2024
• Employer: Victoria Biomedical Research Institute (VIBRI)
• Contract Type: Fixed three-month contract with a possibility of renewal
• Location: Kisumu, Kenya

Organization Overview

Victoria Biomedical Research Institute (VIBRI), founded in September 2020, is dedicated to accelerating the translation of groundbreaking innovations from the laboratory bench to clinical settings in African communities. With a focus on global health research, VIBRI collaborates with international partners to tackle some of the most pressing health challenges across Africa, specifically in sub-Saharan regions.

Through our work, VIBRI addresses the double burden of infectious and chronic diseases affecting Africa. While infectious diseases remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, the incidence of chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes is rapidly increasing. Our goal is to support research and clinical development to improve local and global health outcomes.

Job Overview

We are seeking a Clinical Officer to play a vital role in our clinical trial programs, reporting to the Research Medical Officer. The Clinical Officer will assist in managing the care of patients involved in clinical trials, with responsibilities including patient recruitment, education, monitoring, and data collection. This position involves working with multidisciplinary teams to ensure high-quality care and accurate documentation throughout each trial.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical and Professional Duties

• Manage a caseload of clinical trial patients as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Communicate effectively with patients, caregivers, and professionals to maintain a high standard of service delivery.
• Identify eligible patients for clinical research through inclusion/exclusion criteria.
• Provide clinical expertise for patient care, including physical assessments, sample retrieval, and intervention coordination.
• Ensure that the clinical environment supports research processes, focusing on privacy, dignity, and diversity.
• Document patient events accurately in both medical notes and Case Report Forms.
• Provide education and support to patients and caregivers regarding clinical trials and treatments.
• Monitor patient safety during clinical trials, managing any adverse events in line with protocols.
• Maintain continuity of care for patients throughout the clinical trial process.
• Adhere to ethical guidelines and ensure the appropriate use of patient data for research purposes.

Research Support

• Ensure that the delivery of clinical trials complies with VIBRI’s Research Governance Framework.
• Assist in the study setup, recruitment planning, and data management for clinical research projects.
• Collaborate with investigators to overcome barriers to patient recruitment and solve study-specific issues.
• Run study visits, including off-site patient interactions, and coordinate trial procedures as required.
• Ensure accurate data transcription and respond promptly to data queries from coordinating teams.
• Record and report adverse events to the Principal Investigator (PI) or Clinical Research Coordinator.
• Contribute to ongoing study monitoring, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Participate in study audits and assist with the preparation of results for publication or presentation.

Professional Development

• Attend relevant meetings and training sessions to stay updated on clinical research trends and protocols.
• Mentor new staff members and contribute to the professional development of the team.
• Work autonomously and as part of the Research Delivery Team, providing leadership on specific research projects.

Quality Assurance

• Participate in study audits and contribute to continuous improvement efforts within VIBRI’s clinical research framework.
• Provide feedback from monitoring visits to improve service delivery and adherence to protocols.

Qualifications and Skills

• Diploma in Clinical Medicine and Surgery from a recognized institution.
• Valid professional practice license from the Clinical Officers’ Council.
• Certificate of registration with the Clinical Officers’ Council.
• One year of post-internship experience, preferably in a medical research setting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Fluency in English and Swahili; knowledge of Dholuo is an added advantage.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team and collaborate effectively with colleagues.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by September 30, 2024. Please send your application letter, updated curriculum vitae, academic certificates, practicing license, and any supporting documents to careers@vibriafrica.org.

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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At VIBRI Africa, we are committed to creating an inclusive work environment that values diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives. We believe that embracing diversity helps us find innovative solutions to complex challenges. VIBRI is an equal opportunity employer, and we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, tribe, political affiliation, or disability status.

Please note: VIBRI does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.