ORGANISATION OVERVIEW: The Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation) is a non-profit, public charity organisation that supports, strengthens and promotes science innovation in Africa. Its goal is to address the continent's most pressing developmental needs by generating scientific knowledge that solves problems and informs decision-making. The SFA Foundation serves the African research ecosystem by funding excellent research and innovation ideas, enabling interdisciplinary collaboration, building environments conducive for scientists to thrive, and producing quality, locally relevant research.
POSITION OVERVIEW: Department - Corporate and Science Communications. Reporting to the Science Communication Manager. Location: Nairobi, Kenya.
JOB PURPOSE: The Senior Science Communication Officer supports the development and delivery of high-quality, strategic science communication initiatives that promote the Foundation's research programmes, partnerships and impact. The role involves designing, coordinating and implementing multi-channel communication activities, translating complex scientific research into accessible and engaging content, and providing technical guidance to programme teams on communication and knowledge dissemination.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES: Develop and implement communication strategies aligned with programme and organisational priorities; provide technical oversight and quality assurance for science communication outputs; identify key audiences and tailor communication approaches; guide junior officers on content creation, media engagement and event communications; ensure adherence to brand and visibility guidelines. Strengthen relationships with programme leads, grantees, funders and media partners; serve as focal point for communication coordination across assigned programmes; facilitate knowledge sharing among communication teams and consortium partners; support advocacy and visibility efforts. Oversee creation of press releases, case studies, blogs, reports and multimedia content; lead editorial processes; ensure effective dissemination through digital, media and event platforms. Mentor communication staff and grant partners; review and approve key materials. Lead communication planning for major events, workshops and conferences; build and maintain media relationships. Track, monitor and report on communication performance; prepare communication inputs for programme and funder reports. Support the Manager in planning and managing communication budgets and workplans; manage vendor and consultant relationships.
PERSON SPECIFICATIONS: Minimum of a bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, science communication or a related field; Master's degree preferred. Strong writing, editing and storytelling skills; experience in media relations and digital communications; strong understanding of the African health, research and innovation landscape with the ability to translate complex scientific concepts for diverse audiences; strong organisational skills managing multiple projects, deadlines and budgets; proficiency in digital tools, social media management, CMS and multimedia production; strong interpersonal and teamwork skills; proven experience in editorial leadership, mentoring staff and cross-functional project management. Demonstrated leadership competencies including delegation, developing others, facilitating change, stakeholder management, accountability and integrity.
Closing date: 2026-09-01
HOW TO APPLY:
Should you meet the competencies above, please submit your application by clicking the APPLY button. Apply online at https://sfafoundation.seamlesshiring.com/job/view/10447?application_source=Direct#/ . THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS TUESDAY, 1 SEPTEMBER 2026. SFA Foundation has a commitment to safeguarding people and the environment, and this forms part of our background checks.