Eidg. Forschungsanstalt WSL
Birmensdorf
2 months ago
Group Leader Conservation Biology 80% (m/f/d)
- 08 December 2025
- 80%
- Permanent position
- Birmensdorf
Job summary
Join the WSL, a leading research institution focused on sustainable environment and nature protection. Great opportunity in a collaborative work environment!
Tasks
- Lead a research team of 15-20 in conservation biology.
- Align projects with the WSL strategy 2035 and acquire funding.
- Publish findings in scientific journals and engage with stakeholders.
Skills
- PhD in Biology or Environmental Sciences with a strong track record.
- Excellent leadership and communication skills required.
- Fluency in English and one Swiss national language essential.
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About the job
The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, with around 600 employees, is part of the ETH domain. It deals with the sustainable use and protection of the environment as well as responsible management of natural hazards.
Group Leader Conservation Biology 80% (m/f/d)
The research unit Biodiversity and Conservation Biology investigates the diversity of life, from genetic diversity through species to habitat diversity, as well as their interactions, and provides the basis for evidence-based conservation. Due to succession planning, we are looking for a 1 August 2026 or by arrangement a
As a recognized personality in the field of conservation biology, you will lead a research group with 15–20 employees and align the activities with the WSL Strategy 2035 . Supporting project leaders and integrating two national data centers (lichens, fungi) as well as leading your own practice-oriented research projects are among your diverse tasks. You acquire third-party funding, maintain exchange with other research groups, and support work at the interface between research and practice. You focus on forest or urban ecosystems and primarily work with animals, lichens, and/or fungi. You publish your results in both scientific and practice-oriented journals and engage in collaboration with authorities and professional organizations. Additionally, you may be involved in teaching at ETH and/or universities.
You hold a doctorate in biology or environmental sciences and have built a successful scientific career in the fields of conservation biology or restoration ecology. You have good organismic knowledge and are familiar with field and laboratory-based identification methods. You have a proven track record in developing and financing research projects and maintain active publication and implementation activities. You are an integrative and committed personality, and collaboration with stakeholders in conservation is familiar to you. You have experience leading research teams, doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and technical staff and possess excellent leadership and communication skills. Fluent English skills and proficiency in at least one Swiss national language are required.
Please send your complete application to Michèle Bucher, Human Resources WSL, by submitting the required documents via our application portal. Applications by e-mail or postal mail will not be considered. For questions, Dr. Kurt Bollmann, kurt.bollmann(at)wsl.ch; +41 44 739 24 11, is happy to assist you. Diversity and inclusion are lived values at WSL. We are committed to gender equality and promoting an open and inclusive working environment.
Please send your complete application to Michèle Bucher, Human Resources WSL, by submitting the required documents via our application portal. Applications by e-mail or postal mail will not be considered. For questions, Dr. Kurt Bollmann, kurt.bollmann(at)wsl.ch; +41 44 739 24 11, is happy to assist you. Diversity and inclusion are lived values at WSL. We are committed to gender equality and promoting an open and inclusive working environment.
