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.
The Research Unit Forest and Soil Ecology investigates the functions of forests and soils under global environmental change. The Soil Functions and Dynamics group within the Unit is offering a six-month position starting on 1 July 2026 or by agreement as an
Within the project DRYMET that seeks to quantify risks from heavy metals to drinking water quality, you will support the project leader in the field operations and the analysis of soil samples. Your duties will include going to the project field sites in the forests of southern Switzerland regularly, collecting porewater samples, and analyzing their nutrient and trace element concentrations. Additionally, you will support the setup and running of soil experiments in the lab. You will also contribute to the evaluation of the results of both field and lab components of this project. Depending on your background and interests, there will be opportunities to gain knowledge on various aspects of soil functioning.
You have recently completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree in environmental sciences or chemistry and have gained basic experience working in a laboratory. Readiness for field work and working proficiency in English or German are essential. The ability to learn quickly and work independently is highly valued.
Please address your complete application to Dr. Prachi Joshi, by uploading the requested documents through our webpage. Applications via email will not be considered. Dr Prachi Joshi (prachi.joshi@wsl.ch, phone +41 (0)44 739 22 66), will be happy to answer any questions or 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
Website
Company-Video
The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL provides science-based solutions for forests, landscapes, biodiversity, natural hazards, and snow and ice in a changing world. As a federal research institute and part of the ETH Domain, WSL commits itself to excellence in research and implementation that benefits nature and society.
As the leading Swiss research institute for terrestrial environmental systems, WSL performs outstanding research at the national and inter- national levels that benefits the environment and society in Switzerland and beyond. We address global challenges driven by land use change, climate change, biodiversity loss, altered bio- geochemical cycles, and urbanisation, as well as their interactions. WSL is thus in a position to develop science-based solutions for sustainable approaches that serve both the environment and society. We accomplish this together with partners from research, practice and the public, to effectively support environmental decision-making and governance. To train the next generations of decision-makers, we engage in teaching and continuing education in the field of terrestrial environmental science. Through its activities and engagement with society, WSL bridges the science-policy gap and contributes to a future rooted in sustainability.
