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 Management Research Unit, which collects and analyses data on the Swiss forest in order to improve the understanding of the conditions of the forest and to develop scientifically based solutions for its sustainable management, is looking due to retirement by April 1st, 2026, or by arrangement, for a

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

As an internationally respected personality, you will manage the research unit with around 80 international employees strategically, scientifically and operationally. You will also represent the research unit internally and externally, maintain regular contact with external partners and stakeholders and advise the Directorate with your expertise. You will take on a leading role in national and international research initiatives (programs, projects) and committees and will be involved in collaboration with authorities and specialist organizations. You will support and develop activities at the interface between research and practice on an ongoing basis. The coordination and development of the six research groups and the management of your own projects are also part of your varied and highly demanding duties.
You are at an advanced stage in your scientific career and have extensive and successful experience in leading heterogeneous groups and coordinating interdisciplinary research projects. You have a strong record in the development and funding of research projects, an excellent publication record and an established international network in your area of expertise. You are an initiative, integrative and committed personality with negotiating skills and a well-structured way of working. In addition, you are motivated to develop the research unit scientifically and have convincing communication skills with fluency in English and at least one Swiss national language, though German is an advantage.

Please send your complete application to Susanne Jost, Head Human Resources WSL, by uploading the requested documents through our webpage. Applications via email will not be considered. Prof. Dr. Rolf Holderegger, Director WSL, phone +41 (044) 739 2527,  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.

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