Eidg. Forschungsanstalt WSL
Birmensdorf
Internship Future Tree Species and Nationally Priority Habitats in the Forest 100% (m/f/d)
- 28 August 2026
- 100%
- Birmensdorf
Job summary
Join WSL, a leading research institute focused on sustainable environmental use. Gain hands-on experience in a supportive work environment.
Tasks
- Assist in evaluating future tree species' viability in experiments.
- Support fieldwork, measuring growth and analyzing data with R.
- Compile and digitize expert knowledge on priority forest habitats.
Skills
- Master's in Environmental Sciences or related field required.
- Experience with R and GIS essential for data analysis.
- Ability to communicate in German and English, French preferred.
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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.
Internship Future Tree Species and Nationally Priority Habitats in the Forest 100% (m/f/d)
The research unit Forest Resources and Forest Management investigates the future viability of various tree species as well as reforestation after forest fires and offers in the Plant Regeneration Ecology group a 6-month internship (October 2026 to March 2027)
You will assist with studies on the future suitability of various tree species in the WSL polytunnel experiment . You will support our technician in fieldwork, collect data on root and shoot growth, and analyse these using R. In October and November, you will help at the Apples VD site with the measurement and harvesting of experimental trees as well as with soil preparation for a new planting. Additionally, for the NPL-MAP.ch project, you will compile existing expert knowledge on Nationally Priority Habitats in the forest, prepare it, and digitise spatial information using GIS. This varied internship offers you the opportunity to gain practical experience in field research, deepen your knowledge of R and GIS, and expand your scientific network both within and outside WSL.
You have recently completed your Master’s degree in Environmental Sciences or a related field and hold a category B driving licence. You are comfortable working in the field, enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions, and are characterised by precise and conscientious working methods. Furthermore, you bring experience in R and/or GIS. You have good German and preferably also French language skills and can communicate confidently in English. You enjoy working in an interdisciplinary team and appreciate flexible and independent work.
