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 research group Dynamic Macroecology studies questions related to spatial ecology, macroevolution and biodiversity conservation. Within its Horizon-Europe research project “Understanding the connectivity and dynamics of Avian Influenza in wild birds, poultry and the environment - KappaFLU” the group is looking, starting in spring 2026, for the duration of 1 year, for a

PostDoc in migration and disease ecology 80-100% (f/m/d)

With partners from the Friedrich-Löffler-Institute (Germany), Erasmus Medical Center (The Netherlands), Linneaus University (Sweden), Royal Veterinary College (UK), and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (UK), Kappa-Flu seeks to identify the viral, host and environmental factors that determine the dynamics and spread of avian influenza. In work package 1, we will particularly investigate the role of movements of migratory bird populations in disease spread and dynamics to ultimately predict it at the European scale.

The PostDoc will:

• parameterize existing bird migration models to the migration and movement behavior of selected (waterbird) species that play a key role in the dynamics of avian influenza and compare model predictions to observed tracks.
• develop model simulations under different scenarios of climate change and land use alterations.

You should have a PhD degree in environmental or data sciences and a background in migration ecology and/or disease ecology. Strong quantitative and programming skills (e.g., in R/Python) are required and previous experience with migration models is an asset. We also expect good communication skills in English, the ability to work independently as well as in a team. KappaFlu explicitly encourages close collaboration with other partners and subprojects and supports regular exchange and research visits. You will be based at WSL in Birmensdorf.

Please send your complete application to Jeanine Gehrig, Human Resources WSL, by uploading the requested documents through our webpage. Applications via email will not be considered. The application should include: 1) a cover letter with a statement about your previous research, your vision for the future of your career and your motivation to work on this project; 2) a curriculum vitae including (if applicable) the list of publications or PhD thesis topics and abstracts; 3) copies of your academic qualifications (i.e., diplomas); and 4) names and contact information of 3 academic references. Applications will be considered until the position is filled, but we will start evaluating applicants by late February 2026. Silke Bauer, phone: +41 (0)76 219 29 11, email: silke.bauer@wsl.ch, will be happy to answer any questions or offer further information. WSL is committed to diversity and inclusion as core values. We actively promote gender equality and foster an open, inclusive work environment.

Zürcherstrasse 111, CH-8903 Birmensdorf