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 studies the diversity of life in its various forms, from genetic diversity to the diversity of species and ecosystems as well as their interactions. In the framework of the project MyGardenOfTrees, the Evolutionary Genetics Group is looking for an intern from 1 April 2023, or as soon as afterwards, for the duration of six months
Internship for forest tree germination trials (f/m/d)
During your internship, you will help conduct climate chamber experiments to assess the germination rate of beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) and silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) and their sub-/sister-species. The seeds have been already collected throughout the distribution range of the two species, ranging from Spain to Turkey and from Southern Italy to Germany, in the framework of the MyGardenOfTrees project. Your work will contribute to better understand the natural regeneration capacity of two keystone species of European forests and their potential for climate smart forest management strategies, such as assisted migration.
In your daily work, you will help with (1) setting up the germination trials, (2) monitoring the germination and early development of seedlings using photo images, and (3) digitalizing the observations according to established protocols. Additionally, you will be involved in the preparation of seed parcels for the so-called “micro-garden” field trials of MyGardenOfTrees, including automated seed counting and labeling, material organization and delivery to foresters project participants in Switzerland. Your work place will be at the WSL, in Birmensdorf, and you will work in close collaboration with the project team, in particular, with a future PhD student.
You hold an BSc or MSc degree in forest or plant sciences, ecology or evolution. You are capable of rigorously applying an experimental protocol and making careful observations on living plants. Previous experience with participating in a wet lab or field experiment is an advantage. A good command of English (especially oral) is required. German knowledge is an advantage but not essential. Preference will be given to candidates with a driver's license Kat B.
Please send your complete application to Katalin Csilléry, by uploading the requested documents through our webpage. Applications via email will not be considered. Katalin Csilléry, katalin.csillery(at)wsl.ch, will be happy to answer any questions. WSL strives to increase the proportion of women in its employment, which is why qualified women are particularly called upon to apply for this position.