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 mid 2023 (not later than July 1, 2023), the Research Group Conservation Biology is looking for a
PhD student in Urban Ecology (f/m/d)
Cities are facing major challenges such as urban densification, climate change, and biodiversity loss. Urban green spaces (UGS) can help address these multiple challenges. The main goal of the project is to understand how decision makers affect plant assemblages present in different UGS, and how their decisions affect the ecological and human benefits that can be realized from UGS in a changing climate.
As part of the larger interdisciplinary project PAPPUS, you will investigate how the decisions people make about plants in the urban landscape affect urban pollinator communities and plant-pollinator interactions in three Swiss cities. The work will be done in collaboration with a team of ecologists, climate experts, social scientists and modellers. Your working place for this 4-year PhD is based at the Swiss Federal Research Institute WSL in Birmensdorf, yet the doctoral program will be completed in the Department D-USYS at ETH in Zurich.
You have a MSc degree in biology or environmental science or in a closely related field. A good knowledge of trait-based community ecology and network analyses is desirable. Practical field experience and taxonomic knowledge of plant and/or insects would be advantageous, as would be a good background in quantitative analysis and GIS. Proficiency in English and a driving license cat. B are required. Knowledge of German and/or French is desirable. You should be able to work independently, and be prepared to manage field logistics including the coordination of field assistants. Furthermore you are an ambitious and motivated team player who likes to collaborate with an international team of researchers.
Please send your complete application to Michèle Bucher, Human Resources WSL, by uploading the requested documents through our webpage. Applications via email will not be considered. Marco Moretti, phone +41 (0)44 739 26 74, will be happy to answer any questions or offer further information. The 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.