PhD candidate / PhD candidates in the field of social science environmental research (m/f/d)
Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt für Wald, Schnee und Landschaft (WSL)
Birmensdorf
Key information
- Publication date:07 August 2025
- Workload:100%
- Place of work:Birmensdorf
Job summary
The Swiss Federal Research Institute WSL focuses on sustainable environmental use. Join a dynamic team dedicated to nature protection and disaster management.
Tasks
- Lead participatory processes in two Swiss regions for biodiversity.
- Conduct qualitative and quantitative empirical research independently.
- Publish findings in international journals and work on a dissertation.
Skills
- Master's degree in social or economic geography, environmental science, or related fields.
- Experience in empirical social research and project management.
- Strong communication skills in German and English.
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The Swiss Federal Research Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape WSL employs around 600 staff and 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.
PhD candidate / PhD candidates in the field of social science environmental research (m/f/d)
The research unit of Economics and Social Sciences addresses economic, institutional, and societal questions related to the WSL research topics of landscape, natural resources, spatial development, and natural hazards, and is looking for a candidate for the project "RAVEN" of the National Research Program "Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services" (NFP 82) starting from November 1, 2025 or by agreement for a duration of 4 years.
You will initiate and accompany participatory processes in two regions in Switzerland, where system models and spatially explicit visions for promoting biodiversity in agriculture, forests, and settlements will be developed. You will independently conduct qualitative and quantitative empirical surveys (interviews and standardized questionnaires), integrate the results into these processes, and use them for evaluation. You will publish your research findings in international scientific journals and write a cumulative dissertation based on this. Additionally, you will communicate with internal and external stakeholders and participate in the development of a practical guideline.
You hold a university degree in social or economic geography, environmental sciences, sociology, political science, or related fields. You also have experience in empirical social research, the ability to work independently on projects, knowledge of spatial development and participation topics, and an interest in transdisciplinary research. Experience in publishing and presenting your own work is an advantage. Very good German and English language skills are essential. You are proactive, committed, and communicative, and enjoy working independently as well as in an interdisciplinary team.
Please send your complete application to Michèle Bucher, Human Resources WSL, by submitting the required documents through our application portal. Applications via email or postal mail will not be considered. For questions, please contact Tobias Schulz, Tel. +41 (0)44 739 24 77. At WSL, diversity and inclusion are lived values. We are committed to gender equality and promoting an open and inclusive work environment.
