Senior Programme Officer – CJF at The Science for Africa Foundation

We are an experienced team of scientists, professionals, and African and global partners. Senior Programme Officer – CJF JOB PURPOSE We are seeking an experienced Senior Programme Officer to lead the implementation and growth of the Calestous Juma Science Leadership Fellowship (CJF), a flagship leadership development programme that nurtures and empowers accomplished African scientists to become influential leaders capable of shaping science, policy, innovation, and sustainable development across the continent.

The Senior Programme Officer – CJ Fellows will support the implementation and visibility of the Calestous Juma Science Leadership Fellowship (CJF), with primary responsibility for science communication, knowledge dissemination and Fellow visibility. The role will translate complex scientific, leadership and programme content into clear, engaging and accessible communications for diverse audiences, while supporting effective delivery of Fellowship activities.

The role will work closely with Fellows, faculty, programme teams, Science Communications, funding partners and other stakeholders to develop high-quality communication products, strengthen Fellow thought leadership and visibility, document programme outcomes and support communication across the Fellowship lifecycle. It will also contribute to programme coordination, stakeholder engagement, reporting and learning as required.

The position requires strong science communication and storytelling capability, excellent writing and editing skills, an understanding of scientific and research environments, ideally grounded in academic or professional training in a scientific or public health discipline and the ability to work effectively across diverse stakeholders and African contexts. SFA Foundation is committed to fostering a culture grounded in Respect, Accountability, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI), and Excellence.

We seek individuals who embody these values in their work and interactions. PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Science Communication Strategy and Planning Contribute to the development and implementation of communication plans for the CJ Fellowship in alignment with programme and organisational priorities. Identify key audiences, messages and appropriate communication channels for Fellowship activities, research, leadership outcomes and impact.

Translate scientific, technical and leadership content into clear, accessible and compelling communications for diverse audiences. Contribute to content calendars, communication workplans and campaign planning for Fellowship activities and milestones. Provide technical communication input to programme teams and advise on effective approaches to communicating scientific and programme outcomes. Content Development, Storytelling and Knowledge Products Develop and coordinate high-quality Fellowship content, including impact stories, profiles, case studies, blogs, articles, briefs, newsletters, presentations and other knowledge products.

Develop compelling stories that demonstrate the achievements, leadership journeys, research contributions and impact of Fellows and alumni. Support the packaging of programme evidence, learning and results into accessible content for internal and external audiences. Lead or support editorial processes, ensuring accuracy, clarity, tone and alignment with SFA Foundation standards and approved messaging.

Work with Fellows and faculty to identify and develop opportunities for publications, speaking engagements, thought leadership and other visibility opportunities. Fellow Visibility, Thought Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement Support Fellows to strengthen their professional and scientific visibility through appropriate media, speaking, publication and digital opportunities. Build effective working relationships with Fellows, alumni, faculty, programme teams, grantees, funders, media and other relevant stakeholders.

Coordinate communication engagement with Fellowship partners and cont