Anna Hersperger

Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL is recruiting two PostDoc positions in Social Sciences for Digital Urban Planning within the Land-Use Systems group and the DISCLOSE project. The project is funded by an Advanced Grant from the Swiss National Science Foundation and focuses on how digitalization is transforming spatial planning practice, including issues of equity, transparency, efficiency, technologies, data, and actors. The successful candidates will contribute to a critically grounded theoretical model of digital planning and will work on case study research in selected cities in Europe and beyond. Research activities include qualitative and social science methods such as interviews, document analysis, and focus groups, with a strong emphasis on socio-technical systems of digital planning, theory development, synthesis, and validation. Eligibility: PhD in spatial planning, urban studies, STS, geography, or a related field; strong case study and qualitative research skills; critical thinking; experience studying digitalization; good publication record; interest in planning digitalization; English proficiency; German is an advantage. Experience in planning practice and knowledge of European spatial planning are assets. Position details: two-year duration starting fall 2026, 80-100% appointment, internationally visible research environment, multidisciplinary team. How to apply: Submit the complete application via the WSL webpage using the application portal. Email applications are not accepted. Applications are reviewed from the end of April 2026 and remain open until filled.

The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, a member of the ETH Domain, is offering two postdoctoral positions for social scientists in digital urban planning as part of the DISCLOSE project. WSL is renowned for its research on sustainable environmental use and natural hazard management, with the Land Change Science unit focusing on landscape change patterns and processes. The DISCLOSE project, funded by an Advanced Grant from the Swiss National Science Foundation, investigates the transformative impact of digitalization on spatial planning, aiming to develop a critically grounded theoretical model of how technologies, data, and actors reshape planning practices. Successful candidates will join the Land-Use Systems research group and collaborate with the DISCLOSE team to conduct case study research on socio-technical systems of digital planning in selected European and international cities. Research activities will include interviews, document analysis, focus groups, and other qualitative social science methods. The role involves contributing to the development, synthesis, and validation of the project’s theoretical model, offering a unique opportunity to participate in a high-profile, multidisciplinary research initiative at the intersection of digitalization, urban planning, and critical social science. Applicants must possess a PhD in spatial planning, urban studies, science and technology studies (STS), geography, or a related discipline. Essential qualifications include strong skills in qualitative case study analysis, critical thinking, and experience with the effects of digitalization. Professional experience in planning practice and familiarity with European spatial planning are considered assets. Candidates should demonstrate a solid publication record and a keen interest in the digitalization of planning. Proficiency in English is required, and knowledge of German is advantageous. The positions are ideal for those interested in theory development and motivated to work in a multidisciplinary, international research environment. The postdoctoral appointments are for two years, with 80-100% employment, and are funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. Salary and benefits are provided according to WSL and ETH Domain standards. WSL is committed to diversity, inclusion, and gender equality, fostering an open and supportive work environment. To apply, candidates must upload their complete application documents via the WSL application webpage. Applications sent by email will not be considered. The evaluation of applications will begin at the end of April 2026 and continue until the positions are filled. For further information or questions, applicants may contact Prof. h.c. Dr. Anna Hersperger at [email protected]. These positions offer an excellent opportunity to advance research in digital urban planning and contribute to the development of new theoretical frameworks in a collaborative and international setting.

The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, a member of the ETH Domain, is offering two postdoctoral positions for social scientists specializing in digital urban planning. The positions are part of the DISCLOSE project, which is funded by an Advanced Grant from the Swiss National Science Foundation. WSL is renowned for its research on sustainable environmental use and natural hazard management, with the Land Change Science unit focusing on landscape change patterns, causes, and processes. Within the DISCLOSE project, the Land-Use Systems research group seeks to understand how digitalization is transforming spatial planning, affecting values such as equity, transparency, and efficiency. The project aims to develop a critically grounded theoretical model of how technologies, data, and actors reshape spatial planning practices. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will collaborate with the DISCLOSE team, conducting case study research on socio-technical systems of digital planning in selected cities across Europe and beyond. Your work will involve qualitative social science methods, including interviews, document analysis, and focus groups, contributing to the synthesis and validation of the project's theoretical model. These positions offer the opportunity to participate in an internationally visible research initiative at the intersection of digitalization, urban planning, and critical social science. You will join a multidisciplinary team and engage in theory development within an international research environment. WSL actively promotes diversity, gender equality, and an inclusive workplace. Applicants must hold a PhD in spatial planning, urban studies, STS, geography, or a related field. Essential qualifications include strong skills in qualitative social science methods, case study analysis, critical thinking, and experience studying digitalization effects. Professional experience in planning practice and knowledge of European spatial planning are advantageous. A good publication record and a strong interest in digitalization of planning are expected. Proficiency in English is required, and knowledge of German is beneficial. The positions are funded for two years, with 80-100% employment, and salary and benefits are provided according to WSL and ETH Domain standards. Applications should be submitted via the WSL application portal; email applications will not be considered. Evaluation of applications will begin at the end of April 2026 and continue until the positions are filled. For further information, contact Prof. h.c. Dr. Anna Hersperger at [email protected]. WSL is located at Zürcherstrasse 111, CH-8903 Birmensdorf, Switzerland. For more details and to apply, visit the application link provided.