Job Description

Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL
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 Biodiversity and Conservation Biology investigates the diversity of life in its various forms, from genetic diversity to the diversity of species and ecosystems as well as their interactions. For

1.5 years

, starting

January 1, 2026

the Research Group Conservation Biology is looking for a

PostDoc in biotic and trophic interactions 90% (f/m/d)

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As part of the interdisciplinary PAPPUS project, which explores how plant communities and urban green space management support biodiversity and residents' quality of life, you will work with existing data. Your focus will be on analyzing biotic and trophic interactions between plants and arthropods, including predators, herbivores, pollinators, and detritivores. The data were collected from 60 public and private green spaces in Zurich. Your first task will be to analyse metabarcoding data from over 1200 invertebrate samples to generate a species lists. You will then examine the structure of mutualistic and antagonistic multitrophic networks, including food webs, and model their responses to urbanisation, management intensity, and plant preferences among residents. The position offers flexibility to develop your own research ideas within the scope of PAPPUS. You are expected to publish your findings in high-impact journals and present them at international conferences. Engagement with practitioners, especially through presentations and outreach in French, is also an important part of this PostDoc.
You have a PhD degree in environmental science or in a related field. You have a good publication record as well as a background in ecological sciences and quantitative analyses. Proficiency in bioinformatic, metabarcoding, multitrophic ecology (food web), and ecological modelling is required, as is good knowledge of trait-based ecology. Practical and interdisciplinary experiences (e.g., with urban engineers) and knowledge of the principles and theories of urban ecology are helpful. You are ambitious, motivated and communicative. You are used to a high standard of independent, structured and you demonstrate a high level of team spirit. Proficiency in English and French, as well as good knowledge in German is required.

Please send your complete application to Michele Bucher, Human Resources WSL, by uploading the requested documents through our webpage. Applications via email will not be considered. Dr. Marco Moretti, phone +41 (0)44 739 26 74, 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.
Zurcherstrasse 111, CH-8903 Birmensdorf