PostDoc in Environmental Social Sciences (50-70%) Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL in Switzerland

The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, part of the ETH Domain, is a leading research institution dedicated to the sustainable use and protection of the environment and the management of natural hazards. The Research Unit Economics and Social Sciences, and specifically the Social Sciences in Landscape Research Group, is seeking a PostDoc in Environmental Social Sciences (50-70%) for a two-year position starting September 1st, 2026, with the possibility of extension.

This postdoctoral opportunity is part of a Horizon project focused on investigating the diversity of perceptions of biodiversity and the factors shaping these perceptions among the general public and key stakeholder groups across several European countries. The successful candidate will analyze existing literature, develop a conceptual framework for understanding biodiversity perceptions, and design and evaluate questionnaires targeting both the general public and specific stakeholder groups. The role involves close collaboration with environmental and social scientists, as well as communication experts from other European countries.

Key responsibilities include publishing research findings in international journals and presenting results at project meetings, scientific conferences, and practice-oriented events. The position offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment and the chance to contribute to impactful studies on human-nature relationships and environmental awareness.

Applicants must have a PhD in social sciences with an environmental focus (such as environmental sociology, environmental psychology, or geography), experience in quantitative social research and statistics, fluency in English, and a good command of German. Familiarity with the research field of the human-nature relationship is advantageous. Candidates should be independent, interdisciplinary, proactive, communicative, and team-oriented.

WSL is committed to diversity and inclusion, actively promoting gender equality and fostering an open, inclusive work environment. The institute is located at Zürcherstrasse 111, CH-8903 Birmensdorf, Switzerland.

Applications must be submitted via the WSL application portal. For further information, contact Dr. Nicole Bauer at [email protected].