PostDoc in Biome Biogeography at WSL, Switzerland
The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL is inviting applications for a highly interdisciplinary PostDoc in Biome Biogeography (70–100%). This position is part of an ambitious SNSF-funded project linked to a prestigious ERC Advanced Grant focused on predicting how climate change will reshape ecosystems across the globe.
For researchers with strong backgrounds in macroecology, ecological modeling, and data-intensive science, this opportunity offers the chance to contribute to a theory-driven project with global significance. The PostDoc in Biome Biogeography at WSL offers a compelling opportunity to contribute to a major international research effort on climate change, biodiversity, and ecological theory. With access to cutting-edge computational tools, strong collaborative networks, and one of Europe’s most respected environmental research institutes, this role is an excellent next step for ambitious quantitative ecologists.
About WSL
WSL is one of Switzerland’s premier environmental research institutes and a member of the ETH Domain. Around 600 researchers and staff work on topics related to:
- Forest ecosystems
- Biodiversity and landscape dynamics
- Climate change adaptation
- Natural hazards
- Sustainable resource management
Located in Birmensdorf near Zurich, WSL offers a world-class scientific environment with strong international collaborations.
Research Group: Dynamic Macroecology
The position will be hosted in the Dynamic Macroecology Group led by Dr. Niklaus E. Zimmermann.
The group investigates:
- Spatial ecology and macroecology
- Eco-evolutionary processes
- Global biome dynamics
- Climate change impacts on ecosystems
Its research combines ecological theory, statistical modeling, and computational approaches to address large-scale questions in biodiversity science.
Project Background
ERC Advanced Grant Project
Predicting Hotspots of Climate Change Impacts on Ecosystems from an Eco-Evolutionary Biome Framework
This major research initiative aims to:
- Map global biomes with high ecological precision.
- Forecast biome responses to environmental change.
- Develop and test a novel biome biogeography theory.
Several PhD students and postdoctoral researchers are contributing to the project by generating baseline datasets and evaluating different theoretical components.
Your Role as PostDoc in Biome Biogeography
This position focuses on synthesizing and testing key predictions of the biome biogeography framework.
You will:
- Generate and analyze outputs from machine learning models.
- Work with process-based simulations.
- Integrate macroevolutionary approaches.
- Conduct statistical hypothesis testing.
- Develop analytical protocols for theory evaluation.
- Produce spatial products to support collaborators.
- Synthesize findings across multiple sub-projects.
This role is ideal for researchers who enjoy combining ecological theory with advanced quantitative analysis.
Required Qualifications
Applicants should hold a PhD in ecology or a closely related discipline and demonstrate substantial expertise in quantitative ecological research.
Essential Skills
- Macroecology
- Functional ecology
- Spatial ecology and modeling
- High-volume data analysis
- Programming in R
- Programming in Python
- Version control with Git
Desirable Skills
- Remote sensing
- Cluster computing
- Machine learning
- Artificial intelligence
- Statistical hypothesis testing
Personal Attributes
Successful candidates will be:
- Independent thinkers
- Scientifically curious
- Detail-oriented
- Collaborative team players
- Excellent communicators in English
Why This Position Is Particularly Attractive
Prestigious Funding and Visibility
ERC-linked projects are internationally recognized and often lead to high-impact publications and strong professional networks.
Theory-Driven Science
The project is centered on developing and rigorously testing a new conceptual framework for understanding global biome patterns.
Advanced Analytical Methods
You will work with machine learning, simulation models, and macroevolutionary tools.
Collaborative Research Environment
The project brings together multiple postdocs, PhD students, and international collaborators.
Career Development Potential
This position offers exceptional opportunities to build expertise in one of ecology’s most rapidly advancing research areas.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the online portal. Email applications will not be accepted.
Recommended Application Documents
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Publication list
- Academic transcripts
- References or referee contact details
- APPLY NOW
- Application Review Starts May 11, 2026
Applying to Multiple Positions
Two additional postdoctoral positions are being advertised simultaneously. If you apply to more than one, specify in your cover letter which position you prefer most.
Contact Information
For scientific questions about the role, contact: Dr. Niklaus E. Zimmermann
Email: niklaus.zimmermann@wsl.ch
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this postdoctoral position fully funded?
Yes. The position is funded through an SNSF project associated with an ERC Advanced Grant.
What is the contract duration?
The initial contract is for 18 months, with the possibility of extension.
What percentage appointment is available?
The role is offered at 70% to 100% employment.
Where is WSL located?
WSL is located in Birmensdorf, near Zurich, Switzerland.
What programming skills are required?
Strong proficiency in R, Python, and Git is expected.
Is machine learning experience required?
It is not mandatory but is considered a valuable advantage.
Are non-Swiss applicants eligible?
Yes. WSL regularly recruits internationally and English is the primary required language.
Is there a formal application deadline?
No fixed deadline is listed; the position remains open until filled.
When does the review process begin?
Applications will start being evaluated on May 11, 2026.
Can I apply for multiple WSL postdoc positions?
Yes. Be sure to state your preferred position in your cover letter.
Discover more from Agristok
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.