Available Positions

Postdoctoral Scholars

Open Postdoctoral Position

Updated 8/17/26

We have an open postdoctoral position in the Beach and Oakes labs. Our labs broadly investigate how cells generate and interpret mechanical signals using cell culture models and quantitative microscopy. Successful candidates will also be provided the opportunity to develop independent project(s) during their training.

What we offer:

  • An open, collaborative and stimulating research environment
  • Training in a broad array of quantitative microscopy and image analysis techniques, including Traction Force Microscopy, optogenetics, laser ablation, TIRF, and live-cell super-resolution
  • Commitment to mentoring and career development opportunities tailored to individual career goals
  • Stipend based on NRSA postdoctoral levels
  • Flexibile winter start date
  • Regular opportunities to interact with collaborators at University of Chicago, Northwestern and local meetings like Chicago Cytoskeleton
  • Located only 11 miles from downtown Chicago with easy access via public transportation. Great food, arts, sports, and cultural activities, all within easy reach!

What we're looking for:

  • Candidates from a wide variety of backgrounds, including but not limited to: molecular/cell biology, biochemistry, physics, or engineering
  • Enthusiasm with a strong commitment to pursuing novel research areas and working as part of a team, especially with junior members of the lab
  • Eagerness to learn and develop new techniques and approaches
  • Ability to think independently and the fearlessness to follow new ideas
  • Motivation to pursue career development opportunities (e.g. applying for fellowships and awards, networking, etc.)
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

How to apply:

Interested individuals should email Jordan (jbeach1@luc.edu) and Patrick (poakes@luc.edu) an updated CV along with a brief descritpion of both your current science and why you're specifically interested in joining our lab.

Graduate Students

Prospective Students

Applications should be submitted to the Integrated Program in Biomedical Sciences at Loyola.

Current Students

We are accepting rotation students! Interested students should contact Dr. Oakes about doing a rotation.

Research Technician

Interested individuals can contact Dr. Oakes directly about potential opportunities.

Undergraduate Students

We enjoy having undergraduate researchers work with our research group. Students who are interested should contact Dr. Oakes directly to discuss their research interests and potential projects that are available in the lab.

Highschool Students

As part of our recent Matter-to-Life grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation we have funding to support a high school student internship each summer from 2026-2028. The goal of this internship is give research experience to a local high school student. The internship is for 8-weeks, full-time and is fully paid. Applicants must have access to transportation as the research is performed at the Maywood campus of Loyola University Chicago during the summer (June-August). Application deadline for the summer of 2026 is April 15th and the application can be found here. Students who are interested can contact Dr. Oakes or Dr. Beach directly to discuss their research interests and potential projects that are available in the lab.