The Science for Africa Foundation Senior Programme Officer – CJF Jobs in Kenya;The Senior Programme Officer will lead the implementation and growth of the Calestous Juma Science Leadership Fellowship (CJF), a flagship programme that nurtures African scientists to become influential leaders in science, policy, innovation, and sustainable development. The role focuses on science communication, knowledge dissemination, and Fellow visibility, translating complex content into clear, engaging communications for diverse audiences while supporting effective delivery of Fellowship activities.Principal Duties & ResponsibilitiesScience Communication Strategy & Planning
The Science for Africa Foundation Senior Programme Officer – CJF Jobs in Kenya;
Principal Duties & Responsibilities
Develop and implement communication plans aligned with programme priorities
Identify audiences, messages, and channels for Fellowship outcomes
Translate scientific and leadership content into accessible communications
Contribute to content calendars and campaign planningContent Development & Knowledge Products
Produce impact stories, profiles, case studies, blogs, briefs, newsletters, and presentations
Document Fellows’ achievements, leadership journeys, and contributions
Package programme evidence and results into accessible content
Support Fellows and faculty in publications and visibility opportunitiesFellow Visibility & Stakeholder Engagement
Strengthen Fellows’ visibility through media, speaking, and digital opportunities
Build relationships with Fellows, alumni, faculty, funders, and media
Position the Fellowship as a platform for African scientific leadership
Support advocacy and outreach activitiesDigital, Media & Event Communications
Publish Fellowship content across digital platforms
Manage website, social media, and digital content
Support media engagement and generate positive coverage
Coordinate communication materials for events and workshopsProgramme Coordination & Reporting
Integrate communication requirements into programme delivery
Prepare reports for partners and funders covering visibility and impact
Track communication outputs and outcomes for learning and decisionmaking
Document lessons and success stories for knowledge sharingQuality Assurance & Collaboration
Review outputs for quality, accuracy, and alignment with brand guidelines
Provide technical guidance on science communication
Share good practices and support learning across the Fellowship
Collaborate with Communications, Programmes, and M&E teamsBudget & (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({});Operational Support
Contribute to communication planning and resource requirements
Monitor expenditure and deliverables within approved budgets
Coordinate external vendors and consultants where requiredPerson SpecificationsAcademic Qualifications
Person Specifications
Bachelor’s degree in Science, Public Health, Science Communication, Journalism, or related discipline
Master’s degree preferred; science/public health background with communication expertise encouragedProfessional Qualifications
Certification or membership in communications, journalism, public relations, or science communication is an advantageExperience
Minimum 5 years’ experience in science communication, journalism, or research communication
Experience translating complex scientific information into clear content
Experience working with scientists, researchers, policymakers, and funders
Experience supporting fellowships or leadership initiatives is an advantageKnowledge, Skills & Attributes
Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills
Strong understanding of science and innovation communication
Proficiency in digital tools, social media, and content management systems
Strong stakeholder engagement and interpersonal skills
Planning and organisational ability with attention to detail
Strong presentation and public speaking skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and collaboration tools
Fluency in English; knowledge of French or another AU language is an advantageLeadership Competencies
Ownership and accountability
Stakeholder management and influence
Crossfunctional collaboration and knowledge sharing
Continuous improvement and quality focus