Change of Status from B1/2 to J1

[Vidyakar555]

Currently in the US on a B1/2 tourist visa, I received an offer as research assistant starting from July (on J1). While conventional wisdom would've been to apply for the visa back in the home country, given a travel ban and closure of US consulate in my home country, I'm exploring the option of a Change of Status in the US. However, I've read it takes 4-6 months under normal circumstances.
1. Is the USCIS processing applications for a change of status or are the operations suspended currently?
2. Given the international travel restrictions, would it be prudent to apply for Change of status in US now? Any experiences yet?

Thanks