Change from a j2 to j1

I am currently living in the US under a j2 status (spouse of a j1). Yesterday I was offered a job as a post-doc in the university of texas. My husband works as a post doc at the University of Miami. We are subjected to the 2 year rule. And our current DS 2019 expire December 31st 2021.

I want to know if it is possible to me to change my status from a j2 to a j1, since now I will have a sponsor. I believe I will probably have to leave the country and re-enter in order to change my status.

Anyway, my questions are:

Can I change my status from a j2 to j1?

If so, can I apply for a visa in any Consulate abroad or only in my home country? I'm asking that because of the travel bans..

Is it better to apply for an EAD instead?

I know the EAD takes time but my supervisor said she could wait for a few months until I get my work permit.

I hope I have options since I don't want to lose this opportunity.

Thanks in advance!