HERI-Africa Project Research Chair in Languages Education at Kisii University, Kenya.

About HERI-Africa Project

The Harnessing Education Research for Impact in Africa (HERI-Africa) is a Pan-African initiative bringing together collaborators from government, universities, and civil society research organizations. HERI-Africa aims to increase the productivity and impact of education research on the continent from the current 3% to 30% by 2050 and ensure that research meaningfully improves learning outcomes, student transitions, and lifelong opportunities.

Role Overview

Kisii University (KSU), in partnership with HERI-Africa, is establishing a Research Chair in Languages Education to lead high-impact research, capacity development, and innovation in Language Education in Kenya and across Africa. The Chair will be based at Kisii University (KSU), with collaboration across the HERI-Africa network which will require occasional travel.

Key Result Areas

The Research Chair will:

                   Provide intellectual and scholarly leadership in foundational languages research.

            Lead multi-country and multi-institutional research programs aligned with HERI-Africa,s mission.

           Strengthen research capacity through mentorship, postgraduate training, and institutional collaboration.

                 Build strong networks across universities and other stakeholders.

          Ensure research findings are translated into policy and practice to enhance learning outcomes.

            Participate in resource mobilization efforts to support research in Languages education

Key Responsibilities

I.     Research Leadership and Strategy Development

           Develop and lead a multi-year research agenda focused on foundational Language education.

            Establish systems to ensure research quality, ethical compliance, and effective dissemination.

II.    Graduate Training and Supervision

           Strengthen postgraduate training programs at Kisii University.

           Develop a pipeline of early-career scholars through training, workshops, and mentorship.

III.  Collaboration, Partnerships & Knowledge Mobilization

           Strengthen partnerships with universities, government agencies, and research organizations across Africa.

          Translate research findings into policy briefs, teaching tools, and evidence-based guidance.

IV. Resource Mobilization & Grants Management

                               Lead and contribute to fundraising efforts for languages education research.

Required Qualifications and Experience

           Professor or Associate Professor, or equivalent senior academic rank, in Language Education or a related discipline.

           Strong publication record in Language education, foundational learning literacy, or early-grade learning.

           Demonstrated ability to attract and manage research grants and funding, including multi-institutional or collaborative projects.

           At least 10 years of experience in education research, teacher education, or pedagogical innovation.

           Strong methodological expertise (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).

                          Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage policymakers and practitioners.

           Demonstrated integrity, leadership, and commitment to improving learning outcomes.

How to apply:

1.    Visit Kisii University website; www.kisiiuniversity.ac.ke, select the Careers Portal and fill in your details as guided; and

2.    Submit your application package including;

Kisii University is an equal opportunity employer.