Eidg. Forschungsanstalt WSL
Birmensdorf
Scientific Assistant Social Science Research 60–80 % (f/m/d)
- 18 August 2026
- 60 – 80%
- Birmensdorf
Job summary
The Swiss Federal Research Institute WSL focuses on sustainable environmental use. Join a supportive team tackling exciting challenges in landscape research.
Tasks
- Support researchers in analyzing qualitative data from various sources.
- Conduct literature reviews and assist in workshop organization.
- Help with project management and administrative tasks.
Skills
- Master's in Human Geography, Sociology, or related field required.
- Experience with qualitative research and data analysis software.
- Good command of German and English, web scraping experience a plus.
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About the job
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.
Scientific Assistant Social Science Research 60–80 % (f/m/d)
The research unit "Landscape Dynamics" investigates patterns, causes and processes of landscape change. Within the framework of the DISCLOSE project, the research group "Land Use Systems" is looking for a period of one year from autumn 2026 for a (m/f/d)
This research project examines how digital technologies and data are changing spatial planning practice. It develops a theoretical model that describes the interaction of people, technologies and planning processes and provides the basis for a reflective approach to the digitalisation of planning. For this purpose, an interdisciplinary team conducts a variety of empirical studies.
Your tasks primarily include supporting the researchers in preparing and analysing qualitative data from interviews, documents and ethnographic observations, conducting literature reviews, and organising workshops. In addition, you will assist project management with administrative tasks. We offer you the opportunity to contribute to an exciting interdisciplinary research project in a collegial and supportive working environment.
You hold a master’s degree in human geography, urban studies, science and technology studies (STS), sociology, anthropology or a related field. You are interested in urban spaces and have experience in social science research. In particular, you have experience in independently analysing qualitative social science data from interviews and documents and are familiar with relevant software such as Atlas.ti and/or MAXQDA. Experience in web scraping, online research, conducting expert interviews and organising workshops is an advantage. We welcome applications from individuals with good spoken and written German and English skills.
Please send your complete application to Beatrice Lamprecht, Human Resources WSL, by submitting the required documents via our application portal. Applications will be considered until the position is filled. Anna Hersperger, Tel. +41 (0)44 739 2515, Email: anna.hersperger(at)wsl.ch is happy to answer any questions or provide further information. At WSL, diversity and inclusion are lived values. We are committed to gender equality and to promoting an open and inclusive working environment.
