Chief Veterinary Epidemiologist Job Vacancy in Marsabit, Kenya – Animal Health and Livestock Biotechnology

Job Description

Position: Chief Veterinary Epidemiologist

Company: Zoetis

Location: Marsabit, Kenya

Experience: 10+ years

Education: PhD in Veterinary Epidemiology or Public Health

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Animal Health and Livestock Biotechnology

Department: Research and Development (R&D)

Vacancies: 1

Company Overview

Zoetis is a global leader in animal health, dedicated to improving the well-being of livestock and companion animals worldwide. As a company that emerged from a legacy of scientific excellence, we focus on developing innovative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostic tools that ensure food security and animal welfare. Our presence in East Africa is expanding as we recognize the critical role that livestock plays in the regional economy. We are committed to tackling complex zoonotic diseases and improving the productivity of herds through cutting-edge biotechnology and data-driven health strategies. By integrating advanced science with local expertise, Zoetis aims to create a sustainable future for animal health across the continent. Our teams work tirelessly to bridge the gap between laboratory research and field application, ensuring that farmers and veterinarians have the tools they need to prevent outbreaks and maintain healthy populations. We pride ourselves on a culture of inclusivity, scientific curiosity, and a relentless drive to solve the most pressing challenges in veterinary medicine.

Job Overview

The Chief Veterinary Epidemiologist will lead the strategic design and implementation of disease surveillance programs in the Marsabit region, focusing on transboundary animal diseases and emerging zoonotic threats. This is a high-impact role that combines field research with high-level policy influence. The successful candidate will be responsible for analyzing complex epidemiological data to predict outbreak patterns and recommending preventative measures to local government bodies and international health organizations. This position is central to our mission of enhancing livestock resilience in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs). For those seeking rewarding Kenya Jobs, this role offers the opportunity to lead a multidisciplinary team of researchers and field technicians. You will be tasked with developing mathematical models to track disease transmission and evaluating the efficacy of new vaccine rollouts. This role is essential for anyone looking for a challenging Job Vacancy in Kenya that blends scientific rigor with community impact. You will act as the primary liaison between Zoetis and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, ensuring that our corporate goals align with national health priorities. This is one of the most prestigious Career Opportunities in Kenya for specialists in animal epidemiology.

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Key Responsibilities

• Design and oversee comprehensive disease surveillance systems for livestock in Northern Kenya.
• Lead the analysis of epidemiological data to identify risk factors for endemic and emerging animal diseases.
• Develop and implement strategic vaccination campaigns in collaboration with local stakeholders.
• Publish high-impact research papers on livestock health trends in the Horn of Africa.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior epidemiologists and field staff.
• Coordinate with international health bodies to manage transboundary animal disease movements.
• Evaluate the impact of climate change on the prevalence of vector-borne diseases in livestock.
• Manage the R&D budget for regional epidemiological studies and field trials.

Required Skills

• Expertise in R, SAS, or Python for advanced epidemiological modeling and statistical analysis.
• Deep knowledge of OIE (World Organisation for Animal Health) standards and protocols.
• Proven ability to lead large-scale field operations in remote and challenging environments.
• Exceptional communication skills for presenting scientific data to non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of delivering results on tight deadlines.
• Fluency in English and a working knowledge of local languages spoken in Northern Kenya.

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Education

The candidate must possess a PhD in Veterinary Epidemiology, Veterinary Public Health, or a closely related field from a recognized international university. A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree is a mandatory prerequisite for the PhD.

Experience

A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in veterinary epidemiology is required, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or principal investigator role. Experience working in sub-Saharan Africa, specifically with nomadic livestock populations, is highly preferred. Candidates must demonstrate a history of successful disease eradication or control programs.

Benefits

• Competitive international-standard salary package with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance for the employee and their immediate family.
• Generous relocation allowance and housing support for the Marsabit region.
• Annual professional development budget for attending global veterinary conferences.
• Company vehicle and field allowance for remote site visits.
• Flexible working arrangements and generous paid time off.

Training

• Advanced certification in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for disease mapping.
• Leadership and management training for senior scientific executives.
• Specialized workshops on the latest zoonotic disease prevention technologies.
• Cultural competency training for working with pastoralist communities.

Working Environment

This position is based in Marsabit, requiring a blend of office-based analytical work and extensive field travel to remote livestock grazing areas. The environment can be physically demanding due to the arid climate and rugged terrain. However, it offers a unique opportunity for those passionate about Employment in Kenya and the intersection of animal health and human survival. The role involves collaborating with diverse teams, from government officials to local herders, requiring high emotional intelligence and adaptability. Hiring in Kenya for this level of expertise ensures that the candidate is prepared for the logistical challenges of the region.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a comprehensive CV, a cover letter detailing their most significant epidemiological achievement, and three professional references. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a technical interview followed by a presentation on their proposed strategy for disease surveillance in Northern Kenya. Finalists will be invited for a panel interview with the Global R&D Director.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Zoetis is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees regardless of race, religion, gender, age, or disability. We encourage qualified individuals from all backgrounds to apply for this position.