Postdoctoral Researcher in Pasture Ecology 100% (m/f/d)
Eidg. Forschungsanstalt WSL
Birmensdorf
Key information
- Publication date:10 January 2026
- Workload:100%
- Place of work:Birmensdorf
Job summary
Join the Swiss Federal Research Institute WSL, focusing on environmental protection. Collaborate in a dynamic research setting with international partners.
Tasks
- Investigate the impact of livestock exclusion on ecosystem functions.
- Analyze data on biodiversity and ecosystem services in South America.
- Publish findings and present at conferences to share insights.
Skills
- PhD in Biology or Environmental Sciences, expertise in grazing ecology required.
- Strong data analysis skills, including advanced statistical modeling.
- Fluent in English; Spanish preferred, with excellent communication skills.
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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 Pasture Ecology 100% (m/f/d)
The research unit Biodiversity and Conservation Biology investigates the diversity of life in its various forms, from genetic diversity to species and ecosystem diversity and their interactions. It provides the basis for evidence-based nature conservation. The Community Ecology group is looking for a postdoctoral researcher starting August 1, 2026 or by agreement for two years.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to participate in an international research project on the topic "With or without livestock – how can biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and ecosystem services of pastures be maintained and preserved?" funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. The project is conducted in collaboration with scientists from Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil and aims to investigate how pasture ecosystems respond to the long-term exclusion of cows and sheep.
In collaboration with international partners, you will study the effects of livestock exclusion on ecosystem functions and services of the Rio de la Plata pastures in South America. These pastures extend over a length of 1200 km. Data on species diversity and abundance of grasses, invertebrates, and soil microbes, as well as information on various properties and functions of the pastures, have already been collected. Together with the entire team and landowners, you will define ecosystem functions and services and assess how they are affected by land use change. You will analyze the data, prepare manuscripts, and publish them in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Additionally, you will present the research results at local and international conferences and engage with stakeholders.
You hold a doctoral degree in biology or environmental sciences and have solid knowledge in pasture ecology or ecology. You have experience working with ecosystem functions and services as well as data analysis (including advanced statistical modeling) and wish to further develop your skills and experience in this field. Fluent English skills (spoken and written), the ability to collaborate with younger team members, excellent communication skills, and willingness to work in a large international research team are also essential for success in this position. Preferably, you speak Spanish at an advanced level. Your workplace will be in Switzerland.
Please send your complete application to Jeanine Gehrig, Human Resources WSL, by submitting the required documents via our application portal. Applications by email or postal mail will not be considered. For questions, PD Dr. Anita C. Risch is available at Tel. +41 (0)44 739 2346. At WSL, diversity and inclusion are lived values. We are committed to gender equality and promoting an open and inclusive working environment.
