Hou Lab · Join Us

The Hou Lab at Michigan State University is recruiting motivated students who want to work at the intersection of machine learning and the life sciences.

Open positions

We are looking for Ph.D. students to start in Fall 2027 (applications through the CMSE graduate program), as well as M.S. students, undergraduate researchers, and visiting scholars on a rolling basis. Funded research-assistant positions are available on our NIH-supported projects.

Research topics

Deep learning for protein and RNA 3D structure prediction and refinement
AI-ready RNA motif data and graph neural networks for RNA structure
Quality assessment of predicted protein and complex structures
LLM-based AI agents that automate structural-bioinformatics workflows
Machine learning for clinical decision support (anticoagulant dosing, EHR data)
Privacy-preserving and distributed machine learning

What we look for

Solid programming skills (Python preferred) and comfort with Linux/HPC environments
Background in one or more of: machine learning, statistics, computational biology, structural biology, or applied mathematics
Curiosity about biology and willingness to learn across disciplines
Undergraduates: no prior research experience required — enthusiasm and consistency matter most

How to apply

Prospective Ph.D. students should apply to the CMSE graduate program at MSU and list Dr. Hou as a faculty member of interest. You are welcome to email Dr. Hou beforehand with your CV, transcript, and a short description of your research interests and relevant experience; please use the subject line “Prospective PhD student – Hou Lab”.

Current MSU students (graduate or undergraduate) interested in research credit, honors projects, or paid research positions: email Dr. Hou with your CV and a brief note on which of the topics above interest you.

Visiting scholars and postdoctoral researchers: please contact Dr. Hou directly to discuss potential projects and funding.