Group Leader Conservation Biology

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 investigates the diversity of life in its various forms, from genetic diversity to the diversity of species and ecosystems and their interactions, and provides the basis for evidence‑based nature conservation.

As a recognized expert in conservation biology, you will lead a research group comprising 15–20 employees and align their activities with the overarching objectives. Your diverse tasks involve supporting the project leaders, integrating two national data centres (lichens, fungi) and managing your own applied research projects. You will be responsible for acquiring third‑party funding, maintaining collaboration with other research groups, and bridging the gap between research and practice.

Your primary focus will be on forest or urban ecosystems, with an emphasis on animals, lichens, and/or fungi. You will publish your results in both scientific and applied journals and engage in cooperation with authorities and expert commissions. Additionally, you may be involved in teaching at ETH and/or universities.

Qualifications:

you hold a doctorate in biology or environmental sciences and have built a successful scientific career in the fields of Conservation Biology or Restoration Ecology. You have strong expertise in organismic biology and are familiar with field and laboratory‑based species determination methods. You have a proven track record in the development and funding of research projects and are actively engaged in publishing and implementing research findings.

You are an integrative and committed personality, experienced in collaborating with stakeholders in nature conservation, and have led research teams, including PhD students, Post Docs and technicians. Good communication skills with fluency in English and proficiency in at least one Swiss national language are essential.