Postdoctoral Researcher in Ecological Genomics 80% (m/f/d)
Eidg. Forschungsanstalt WSL
Birmensdorf
Key information
- Publication date:06 November 2025
- Workload:80%
- Place of work:Birmensdorf
The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, with around 600 employees, is part of the ETH domain. It deals with the sustainable use and protection of the environment as well as responsible management of natural hazards.
Postdoctoral Researcher in Ecological Genomics 80% (m/f/d)
The Biodiversity and Conservation Biology research unit studies the diversity of life, from genetic diversity to species and habitat diversity, as well as their interactions. The TreeGD project, funded by the FOEN for more than four years, investigates the genetic diversity and adaptive potential of main and secondary tree species in Swiss conservation areas, including their seed material. For this project, the Ecological Genetics group is looking for a motivated person from January 1, 2026 or by agreement, on a fixed-term basis for 2 years (with the option of extension).
You plan and support the sampling of tree material for DNA extraction and coordinate the laboratory work. You analyze genome-wide sequence data from 500 trees of five tree species each and calculate indicators such as genetic diversity, differentiation, and potential adaptation. From this, you derive practical recommendations for Swiss conservation areas and seed collection. In collaboration with project partners, you publish the results in scientific and implementation-oriented journals and present the findings at events with forestry practice and at international and national scientific conferences.
You hold a doctorate in biology, forestry, or environmental sciences and have good knowledge of ecological genetics and evolutionary biology, preferably in forest trees. You are familiar with genome-wide analyses on high-performance computers and are highly competent in population genetics and landscape genomics. You write and speak fluently in at least one Swiss national language as well as English. You possess a category B driving license and enjoy working outdoors, even under difficult conditions. You are a team player and communicative, and you work in a structured and independent manner.
Please send your complete application to Michèle Bucher, Human Resources WSL, by submitting the required documents via our application portal. Applications by email or postal mail will not be considered. For questions, Christian Rellstab is available at Tel. +41 (0)44 739 25 42, Email: christian.rellstab(at)wsl.ch. As we will start evaluating applicants immediately, we recommend submitting applications by the end of November. Diversity and inclusion are lived values at WSL. We are committed to gender equality and promoting an open and inclusive working environment.
