Field Internships Mountain Forest Ecology 80-100% (m/f/d)
Eidg. Forschungsanstalt WSL
Birmensdorf
Key information
- Publication date:26 January 2026
- Workload:80 – 100%
- Place of work:Birmensdorf
Job summary
Join the WSL, a leading research institute focused on environmental sustainability. Experience hands-on fieldwork in stunning mountain regions.
Tasks
- Conduct tree regeneration sampling in diverse alpine ecosystems.
- Assist in data quality control and project documentation tasks.
- Record damage, browsing, and environmental parameters in the field.
Skills
- Pursuing or recently completed a degree in forest or environmental sciences.
- Strong ecological knowledge and attention to detail required.
- Proficiency in German; French skills are a plus.
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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.
Field Internships Mountain Forest Ecology 80-100% (m/f/d)
The research unit Forest Resources and Forest Management records and analyzes changes in the landscape and in the forest. It conducts the project "Mountain Forest Regeneration," which aims to better understand regeneration processes, and offers from June 15, 2026, four 4-month
You will work in a team of 4 interns and carry out sample inventories of tree regeneration, record the remaining vegetation and microhabitats, and assist with data quality control. In addition, you will record damage/wild browsing, light, and soil parameters. The fieldwork portion is about 80% and involves 3- to 4-day assignments in the most beautiful mountain regions of Switzerland. In the office, you will support the project team with data evaluation, data backup, and the preparation of the technical report or other project documentation.
You are enrolled in a bachelor's or master's program in forestry, natural sciences, or environmental sciences or have recently graduated and possess good forest ecological expertise. You also have proficiency in German, both spoken and written; knowledge of French is an advantage. You work carefully and precisely and are a team-oriented, communicative, and flexible personality. Furthermore, you hold a category B driver's license and also drive forest roads. Essential requirements are that you enjoy working in nature and have good physical condition so that you can safely move on steep slopes. Experience with R software and GIS is highly welcome.
Please send your complete application to Ms. Petia Nikolova by submitting the required documents via our application portal. Applications by email or postal mail will not be considered. For questions, she is happy to assist you at Tel. +41 44 739 23 50. At WSL, diversity and inclusion are lived values. We are committed to gender equality and promoting an open and inclusive working environment.
