Join the Zhang Lab

The Zhang Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at Louisiana State University is recruiting motivated postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and undergraduate researchers interested in microbiome biology, aging, host–microbe interactions, environmental health, and systems biology using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans.

Undergraduate

Undergraduate Researchers

We welcome enthusiastic undergraduate students interested in gaining research experience in molecular biology, microbiology, microscopy, and computational biology.

Undergraduate researchers may participate in:

  • Worm maintenance and experimental assays
  • Microbial culturing
  • Imaging and fluorescence microscopy
  • Data analysis and visualization
  • Independent or honors research projects

No prior research experience is required. We value curiosity, reliability, motivation, and willingness to learn.

Please complete the application form below:

Undergraduate Research Form
Graduate

Graduate Students

Graduate students interested in microbiome research, aging, environmental health, or computational biology are encouraged to apply through the LSU graduate program in Biological Sciences.

Graduate students in the lab receive training in:

  • Experimental design
  • Genetics and microbiology
  • Microscopy and image analysis
  • High-throughput assays
  • Multi-omics approaches
  • Data analysis and scientific communication

Students will have opportunities to collaborate across disciplines and participate in conferences, workshops, and professional development activities.

Postdoctoral

Postdoctoral Researchers

We are seeking highly motivated postdoctoral researchers with backgrounds in one or more of the following areas:

  • Microbiology
  • Molecular biology
  • Aging biology
  • Bioinformatics/computational biology
  • Host–microbe interactions

Postdoctoral researchers will lead independent and collaborative projects, develop mechanistic studies, mentor students, and contribute to manuscript and grant preparation. Experience with C. elegans, microbiome research, RNA-seq analysis, microscopy, or microbial genetics is preferred but not required.

Competitive candidates should demonstrate:

  • Strong publication record
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively
  • Interest in interdisciplinary research

Interested applicants should email:

  • A brief statement of research interests
  • CV or résumé
  • Contact information for references