Head of Research Unit Forest Resources and Management 90 – 100% (f/m/d)

The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL is part of the ETH Domain. Approximately 600 people work on the sustainable use and protection of the environment and on the handling of natural hazards.

The Forest Resources and Forest Management Research Unit is committed to recording, analysing, evaluating and predicting the development of forest resources. The aim is to improve the understanding of the state of the forest and to develop scientifically grounded solutions for its sustainable management in the 21st century. The National Forest Inventory (NFI) forms an essential pillar of the research unit. Due to a retirement, we are looking to fill the following position, starting April 1, 2026 or by agreement.

As an internationally recognised figure, you will lead the research unit with enthusiasm and skill. Your diverse and high-responsibility tasks will include coordinating and working to advance the six research groups, comprising around 80 employees, and managing your own projects. You will secure third-party funding, cultivate connections with other research areas, and further develop the topic of forest resources and forest management within the framework of the WSL strategy and in the sphere of the ETH Domain. You will engage in cooperation with forestry authorities and specialist organisations at the national and the international level, and you will promote knowledge transfer and implementation at the interface between research and practice.

You have several years of experience in leading research groups and managing large projects. Additionally, you have a proven track record in developing and financing research projects and an established network in your field. You are a proactive, integrative and committed individual with strong negotiation skills. You are able to convey your forward-looking vision for the further development of the research unit in a compelling manner, communicating clearly in English and at least one Swiss national language.

Please send your complete application to Susanne Jost, Head of Human Resources at WSL, by submitting the required documents via our application portal. Applications sent by email or post will not be considered. If you have any questions, please contact Prof. Dr Rolf Holderegger, Director of WSL, tel. +41 (044) 739 25 27, or Dr Christoph Hegg, Deputy Director of WSL, tel. +41 (044) 739 24 44. WSL is committed to diversity and inclusion as core values. We actively promote gender equality and foster an open and inclusive work environment.