2026-2027 Application Timeline
Sept. 30th
Coffee Chats with USJ Board and Staff.
6:00-7:00 PM
Boyer 159
Oct. 7th
Coffee Chats with USJ Board and Staff.
6:00-7:00 PM
Boyer 159
Oct. 11th
Assistant Managing Editor applications
due @ 11:59 PM.
Oct. 16th
General Staff applications
due @ 11:59 PM.
Why apply?
USJ Staff members receive in-depth training in scientific writing and communication, thereby gaining graduate-level experience with the review, editorial, and layout processes of manuscript presentation. ​ You will also receive upper division course credit for your participation as a USJ staff member.
Who should apply?
UCLA undergraduates of all years are welcome to apply. We recruit Staff from all majors, however, STEM majors are given preference for the Review Board. Previous experience with publications, graphic design, leadership, or research will also be considered.
USJ Staff Structure
The USJ is divided into three Boards: Review, Editorial, and Layout. Each Board is led by a Managing Editor (ME), and consists of Assistant Managing Editors (AMEs) and General Staff members. The Leadership Team consists of the Editors-in-Chief (EICs) and the MEs.
Review
Decides which articles are selected for publication through a rigorous review process; reads science critically.
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The Review Board is active from
Fall Week 7 to Winter Week 5.
Editorial
Edits articles to improve scientific validity and clarity, ensuring published articles are accessible and of high-quality.
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The Editorial Board is active from Winter Week 1 to Spring Week 1.
Layout
Creative team that designs how the journal looks, from the cover to the placement of the figures.
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The Layout Board is active from Winter Week 1 to Spring Week 6.