Join Our Team

Opportunities to work with us on cutting-edge pulmonary research

Why Join the Ji Laboratory?

Our lab offers a dynamic and collaborative environment where innovative research in pulmonary diseases takes place. We are dedicated to understanding the molecular mechanisms of ARDS, COVID-19, and sarcoidosis using cutting-edge approaches.

As a member of our team, you will:

  • Work with state-of-the-art technology and methodologies, including scRNAseq, multi-omics approaches, and humanized mouse models
  • Collaborate with scientists across disciplines and institutions
  • Develop valuable skills in molecular biology, cell physiology, and computational analysis
  • Contribute to research with direct clinical implications for respiratory diseases
  • Be part of a supportive and inclusive research community

"Our laboratory is committed to fostering the next generation of scientists. We provide mentorship, resources, and opportunities for growth in a collaborative environment focused on scientific excellence and translational impact."

- Dr. James (Hong-Long) Ji, Principal Investigator

Ji Laboratory Team Working

Current Opportunities

We are excited to announce that we have secured new funding and are actively seeking talented individuals to join our research team:

Assistant Professor

Status: Available

We are seeking an exceptional candidate for an Assistant Professor position to lead a research focus within our laboratory. This is a funded position with opportunities for career advancement.

Qualifications:
  • PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Physiology, or related field
  • Strong background in molecular and cellular biology techniques
  • Experience with mouse models and/or organoid culture
  • Publication record in peer-reviewed journals
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Contact Dr. Ji

Postdoctoral Fellows

Status: Available

We have recently received funding for new research projects and are actively recruiting postdoctoral fellows to join our team. We seek talented researchers with expertise in molecular biology, immunology, or physiology.

Qualifications:
  • PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Physiology, or related field
  • Strong background in molecular and cellular biology techniques
  • Experience with mouse models and/or organoid culture
  • Publication record in peer-reviewed journals
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Contact Dr. Ji

Graduate Students

Status: Available

We have funded positions available for graduate students interested in respiratory physiology and immunology. Our grant-funded projects offer excellent training opportunities for developing scientists.

Requirements:
  • B.S. or M.S. in Biology, Biochemistry, or related field
  • Strong academic record
  • Interest in pulmonary research
  • Research interests that align with our lab's focus areas
  • Motivation and commitment to scientific research
Contact Dr. Ji

Undergraduate Students

Status: Available

We offer funded research opportunities for motivated undergraduate students interested in gaining hands-on experience in a biomedical research laboratory. Stipends are available through our grants and university programs.

Requirements:
  • Current enrollment at Loyola University Chicago or partner institutions
  • Completion of basic biology and chemistry courses
  • Minimum commitment of 10 hours per week for at least one semester
  • Enthusiasm for scientific research
  • Strong work ethic and attention to detail
Contact Dr. Ji

Funding Notice

Thanks to recent grant funding, we are pleased to offer multiple funded positions across all academic levels. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible as positions will be filled on a rolling basis.

For specific information about available projects and funding details, please contact Dr. Ji directly at hji@luc.edu.

Our Lab Environment

The Ji Laboratory is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative research environment.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Access to advanced equipment and technologies for cutting-edge research in molecular biology, cell physiology, and multi-omics analysis.

Collaborative Culture

Work alongside researchers with diverse expertise and backgrounds, fostering cross-disciplinary approaches to complex scientific questions.

Mentorship & Training

Receive personalized mentorship and training to develop both technical skills and professional competencies for your career advancement.

Regular Lab Meetings

Participate in weekly lab meetings for data presentation, troubleshooting, literature review, and collaborative problem-solving.

Presentation Opportunities

Develop scientific communication skills through presentations at lab meetings, departmental seminars, and national conferences.

Inclusive Environment

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all team members can thrive and contribute.

Application Process

For those interested in joining our team:

1

Prepare Your Materials

Assemble the following documents:

  • CV or resume
  • Cover letter describing your research interests, relevant experience, and why you want to join our lab
  • Academic transcripts
  • Contact information for 2-3 references
  • List of relevant skills and techniques
2

Contact Dr. Ji

Send your application materials to hji@luc.edu with the subject line "Research Position Application - [Position Title] - [Your Name]"

In your email, clearly indicate:

  • The specific position you are applying for
  • Your availability (start date, duration of commitment)
  • Any specific research interests within our lab's focus areas
  • Any questions you have about the position or lab
3

Interview

If your background and interests align with our lab's needs, you may be invited for:

  • An initial meeting with Dr. Ji (virtual or in-person)
  • A lab tour and meetings with current lab members
  • Discussion of potential projects based on your interests and skills
  • A follow-up interview if necessary
4

Decision & Onboarding

If both parties agree to proceed, we will:

  • Provide a formal offer letter with position details
  • Complete necessary university paperwork
  • Arrange lab safety training and orientation
  • Develop a research and mentoring plan suited to your goals
Application Timeline

We review applications on a rolling basis. We typically respond to all applications within 2-3 weeks. If you haven't heard from us after this period, please feel free to send a follow-up email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our laboratory has recently secured funding for several exciting projects focusing on lung injury mechanisms, cellular responses to viral infections, and novel therapeutic approaches for pulmonary diseases. Specific projects include investigation of cellular crosstalk in ARDS, molecular mechanisms of COVID-19 pathogenesis, and innovative therapeutic strategies for sarcoidosis.

In addition to our grant-funded positions, students can explore supplementary funding opportunities through Loyola's LUROP program, federal work-study positions, summer research programs, and external scholarships. Graduate students may also consider university-sponsored fellowships and national fellowships such as those from the NSF or NIH. Our lab provides full or partial funding for most positions, and we can help you identify additional resources as needed.

Postdoctoral positions are typically funded for 2-3 years with possible extensions based on performance and continued funding. Graduate student positions are funded for the duration of their academic program as long as satisfactory progress is maintained. Undergraduate research positions are typically funded for one academic year with possibilities for renewal.

We particularly value experience in molecular biology techniques (PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, immunohistochemistry), cell culture, mouse handling, flow cytometry, and basic bioinformatics skills. Experience with single-cell RNA sequencing, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, or computational analysis is highly desirable but not required for all positions. We provide training for specific techniques needed for your project.

Yes, our funded positions include support for presenting research at scientific conferences. We encourage all lab members to participate in professional development activities, including scientific writing workshops, grant writing seminars, and networking events. Postdoctoral fellows and graduate students are expected to present their work at national meetings at least once per year, with funding provided through our grants.

Have Questions?

If you have any questions about opportunities in our lab or the application process, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're happy to discuss potential projects and how your interests might align with our research.

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