Eidg. Forschungsanstalt WSL
Birmensdorf
8 hours ago
Postdoctoral Researcher (Environmental) Social Sciences 50-70% (m/f/d)
- 24 March 2026
- 50 – 70%
- Birmensdorf
Job summary
The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape (WSL) employs around 600 staff. It focuses on sustainable environmental use and responsible natural hazard management.
Tasks
- Research public perceptions of biodiversity across Europe.
- Analyze literature and develop a framework for biodiversity perception.
- Create and evaluate surveys for various stakeholder groups.
Skills
- PhD in social sciences with an environmental focus required.
- Experience in quantitative social research and statistics needed.
- Fluent communication in English and good German skills 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.
Postdoctoral Researcher (Environmental) Social Sciences 50-70% (m/f/d)
The research unit Economic and Social Sciences addresses social science questions related to WSL research topics and is looking for a
September 1, 2026 or by agreement, limited for two years (with option for extension) a
Within the framework of a Horizon project, you will research the diversity of perceptions of biodiversity and the underlying factors for these perceptions in the general public and key stakeholder groups in several European countries.
You analyze the existing literature and develop a conceptual framework for the perception of biodiversity based on it. In addition, you develop questionnaires for the general population as well as specific stakeholder groups and evaluate them. You work closely with environmental and social scientists as well as communication experts from other European countries. You publish the results in international journals and present them at project meetings, scientific conferences, and in practice.
You have completed a social science degree with an environmental focus (e.g., environmental sociology, environmental psychology, geography), have a PhD in this subject area, and bring experience in quantitative social research and statistics. Good knowledge of the research field "human-nature relationship" is an advantage. You communicate fluently in English both orally and in writing and have good German language skills. Furthermore, you convince with an independent, interdisciplinary networked working style. You are proactive, committed, communicative, and team-oriented.
Please send your complete application to Lorena Cadosch, Human Resources WSL, by submitting the required documents via our application portal. Applications by email or postal mail will not be considered. For questions, Nicole Bauer, nicole.bauer(at)wsl.ch, Tel. +41 (0)44 739 24 58, is happy to assist you. At WSL, diversity and inclusion are lived values. We are committed to gender equality and promoting an open and inclusive working environment.
