The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL), part of the ETH Domain, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral researcher in Grassland Ecology to join an international research project on biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, and land-use change.
This position is hosted by the Community Ecology Research Group within the Biodiversity and Conservation Biology Research Unit and is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF).
Position: PostDoc in Grassland Ecology
Start date: 1 August 2026
Duration: 2 years
Workload: 100%
Location: Switzerland
About WSL and the Research Unit
WSL is Switzerland’s leading institute for research on biodiversity, ecosystems, and sustainable land use, employing approximately 600 researchers and staff. As a member of the ETH Domain, WSL provides a highly collaborative and internationally connected research environment.
The Biodiversity and Conservation Biology Research Unit investigates life at multiple levels, from genetic diversity to ecosystems, with a strong focus on species interactions and ecosystem resilience under environmental change.
About the Research Project
The PostDoc will contribute to the international research project:
“With or without livestock – how to sustain and preserve biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and services of grasslands”
The project examines how long-term livestock removal affects grassland ecosystems across the Rio de la Plata region, spanning a 1,200 km ecological gradient across Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil.
Extensive datasets have already been collected, including:
- Species richness and abundance of grasses
- Invertebrate community data
- Microbial diversity
- Ecosystem properties and functional indicators
Research Focus and Responsibilities
Working closely with international collaborators and local landowners, your responsibilities will include:
- Assessing how livestock removal influences ecosystem functions and services
- Defining key ecosystem services relevant to grassland management
- Analyzing existing multi-trophic biodiversity datasets
- Applying advanced statistical and ecological modeling approaches
- Preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed scientific journals
- Presenting results at national and international conferences
- Engaging with stakeholders and project partners
This role offers a strong opportunity to deepen expertise in ecosystem functioning and services within large-scale, real-world ecological systems.
Candidate Profile
Applicants should hold a PhD in biology, environmental sciences, or ecology, with a strong specialization in one or more of the following areas:
- Grassland ecology
- Rangeland ecology
- Community or ecosystem ecology
You should also demonstrate:
- Experience working with ecosystem functions and services
- Strong data analysis skills, including advanced statistical modeling
- Excellent written and spoken English
- Ability to collaborate with junior researchers and large teams
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Advanced proficiency in Spanish is highly desirable due to collaboration with South American partners.
Working Environment and Collaboration
The position is based in Switzerland, with close collaboration across an international network of scientists in Europe and South America. You will work within a large, interdisciplinary research team, combining ecological theory with applied conservation science.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
WSL is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion as core institutional values. The institute actively promotes gender equality and fosters an open, respectful, and inclusive working environment for all employees.
Application Process:
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the online application portal.
Applications sent by email will not be considered. Apply online here: https://apply.refline.ch/273855/1823/index.html?cid=1&lang=en
For further information about the position, please contact: PD Dr. Anita C. Risch anita.risch@wsl.ch
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this a full-time PostDoc position?
Yes. The position is offered at 100% employment.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes. Qualified candidates from all countries are encouraged to apply.
Will I collect new field data?
The project is primarily based on existing long-term datasets, with strong emphasis on data analysis and synthesis.
Is Spanish required?
Advanced Spanish skills are preferred due to collaboration with partners in South America.
What type of statistical methods will be used?
Advanced statistical and ecological modeling techniques will be applied.
Does the position include stakeholder engagement?
Yes. Interaction with landowners and stakeholders is an integral part of the project.
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