Postdoctoral Researcher in Social-Ecological Systems 70-100% (m/f/d)
Eidg. Forschungsanstalt WSL
Birmensdorf
Key information
- Publication date:16 January 2026
- Workload:70 – 100%
- Place of work:Birmensdorf
Job summary
Join the WSL, a leading research institution focused on sustainable environmental use. This role offers an engaging work environment with diverse opportunities.
Tasks
- Analyze social, economic, and ecological impacts of photovoltaic systems.
- Develop methodologies for comparative assessment in various regions.
- Collaborate within a European network to protect biodiversity and promote justice.
Skills
- PhD in Geography, Environmental Sciences, or related fields required.
- Fluency in at least one Swiss national language and English essential.
- Strong teamwork, communication, and structured working skills needed.
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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 in Social-Ecological Systems 70-100% (m/f/d)
The Landscape Dynamics research unit analyzes and assesses short- and long-term changes in the natural resources of built-up, managed, and near-natural landscapes. The project JustBioSolar, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, investigates the impacts of ground-mounted photovoltaic systems. For this project, the Land Use Systems group is looking for a postdoctoral researcher starting 1.4.2026 or by agreement, limited to 2 years (with the option of extension).
You will investigate, within a European network of study regions, the social, economic, and ecological impacts of ground-mounted photovoltaic systems with a focus on issues of biodiversity protection, landscape development, and environmental justice. For this, you will develop an appropriate methodology for a comparative survey and analysis, primarily based on the evaluation of written documents, spatial data, interviews, and image sources.
You hold a doctorate in geography, environmental sciences, or related disciplines and have experience in social-ecological research and combining qualitative and quantitative methods. You write and speak fluently in at least one Swiss national language as well as English and have successfully published internationally. You are a team player, communicative, and work in a structured and independent manner.
Please send your complete application to Jeanine Gehrig, Human Resources WSL, by submitting the required documents through our application portal. Applications by email or postal mail will not be considered. For questions, Prof. Dr. Matthias Bürgi is happy to assist you by email (matthias.buergi@wsl.ch). At WSL, diversity and inclusion are lived values. We are committed to gender equality and promoting an open and inclusive working environment.
