Job Description
The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL is part of the ETH Domain. Approximately 600 people work on the sustainable use and protection of the environment and on the handling of natural hazards.
Head of Research Group Sustainable Forestry 80-100% (f/m/d)
The
Forest Resources and Forest Management research unit addresses key questions relating to the sustainable, climate-resilient management of Switzerland’s forests and to understanding their response to global change. We are seeking to appoint, from
June 2026 or by agreement, a
We are looking for a dynamic and collaborative leader to provide scientific, technical and administrative leadership to a well-established
research group of around ten staff members. The role is centred on research with impact: developing research questions within the team, implementing projects, and preparing results so that they reach professional practice, public administration and policy, through publications, courses, advisory resources and practical tools.
A key responsibility will be to further sharpen the group’s strategic profile, with a focus on at least two of its current thematic areas: Forest management to safeguard biodiversity and ecosystem services under climate change, including decision support at the planning level; Forest engineering and forest economics, including efficiency, timber harvesting costs and robust operational solutions; as well as digital transformation in forest management, including the integration of remote sensing data and the use of machine learning/AI for modelling and visualising complex management processes.
In addition to pursuing your own research, you will ensure the group’s scientific quality and visibility and support publication activities within the team. Knowledge transfer is equally important: research results are translated into teaching and continuing education, advisory resources and practical applications (e.g. Seilaplan). The role also involves acquiring and leading projects, further developing the thematic portfolio, and strategically expanding collaborations with researchers, public authorities and practice partners.
You hold a PhD in forest sciences, ideally with a techno-economic focus. You have a strong publication record and very good knowledge of forest management in Switzerland and Central Europe, and you are familiar with collaborating with stakeholders. Experience in leading scientific teams including PhD students, postdoctoral researchers and technical staff, strong project management skills, and a collaborative communication style are essential. Excellent German and English language skills are required.
Please submit your complete application to Beatrice Lamprecht, Human Resources WSL, by uploading the requested documents through our webpage. Applications via email will not be considered. Dr Janine Schweier (janine.schweier@wsl.ch) or Dr Leo Bont (leo.bont@wsl.ch), will be happy to answer your questions or to offer further information. WSL is committed to diversity and inclusion as core values. We actively promote gender equality and foster an open, inclusive work environment.
Zürcherstrasse 111, CH-8903 Birmensdorf
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