PostDoc in Biome Analysis and Functional Characterization …, Birmensdorf

PostDoc in Biome Analysis and Functional Characterization 70-100% (f/m/d) The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL (WSL) is part of the ETH Domain. Approximately 600 people work on the sustainable use and protection of the environment and handling of natural hazards.

The Research Group Dynamic Macroecology led by Dr. Niklaus E. Zimmermann studies questions related to spatial ecology, macroecology, and -evolution and global biome dynamics. We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher for a duration of 18 months (possibility of extension) to work on an SNSF (ERC) Advanced Grant project (Predicting hotspots of climate change impacts on ecosystems from an eco‑evolutionary biome framework).

Responsibilities

Contribute to sampling drone‑based (LiDAR, multispectral) and ground‑based (hemispherical photos, LAI 2200) measurements in the field for different biomes and compile existing data from large databases;

Analyze these data for systematic differences in vegetation structure;

Refine computer‑vision models to extract leaf traits and other plant functional characteristics from photos from above and below the biome canopies;

Analyze global databases of plant photos to extract functional properties using the trained computer‑vision models;

Characterize functional and structural properties of biomes and upscale this information globally using data on plant distributions.

Qualifications

PhD in ecology or a related field;

Strong skills in macroecology, functional ecology, processing and analysis of high‑volume and remote‑sensing data (especially LiDAR and multispectral), spatial modelling, and coding with R/Python and GIT;

Experience in calibrating deep‑learning tools, cluster computing and/or fieldwork is beneficial;

Ability to develop new ideas independently and excellent written and oral English skills;

Curious, self‑reliant, an excellent team worker who values cooperation.

Application Process Please send your complete application to Beatrice Lamprecht, Human Resources WSL, by uploading the required documents through our webpage. Applications via email will not be considered.

Evaluation of application starts May 11th 2026.

The position remains open until filled.

WSL is committed to diversity and inclusion as core values. We actively promote gender equality and foster an open, inclusive work environment.

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