Role Overview

• The University of Embu (UoEm), in partnership with HERI-Africa, is establishing a Research Chair in Mathematics Education to lead high-impact research, capacity development, and innovation in foundational numeracy in Kenya and across Africa. The Chair will be based at the University of Embu (UoEm), 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 numeracy research.
• Lead multi-country and multi-institutional research programs aligned with HERIAfrica’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 mathematics education

Key Responsibilities

Research Leadership and Strategy Development

• Develop and lead a multi-year research agenda focused on foundational numeracy.
• Establish systems to ensure research quality, ethical compliance, and effective dissemination of research findings.

Graduate Training and Supervision

• Strengthen postgraduate training programs at UoEm.
• Develop a pipeline of early-career scholars through training, workshops, and mentorship.

Collaboration, Partnerships and 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.

 Resource Mobilization & Grants Management

• Lead and contribute to fundraising efforts for mathematics education research.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Professor or Associate Professor, or equivalent senior academic rank, in Mathematics Education or a related discipline.
• Strong publication record in mathematics education, foundational numeracy, or early-grade learning. Demonstrated ability to attract and manage research grants and funding, including multi-institutional or collaborative projects.
• At least 7 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.