Scientist focusing on biodiversity conservation in terrestrial ecosystems

The Plant Ecological Genetics Group of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH) invites applications for a scientist focusing on biodiversity conservation in terrestrial ecosystems.

The appointment is part of the research initiative “Translational Centre Biodiversity Conservation” (TCBC), funded by the ETH Board within the Strategic Area “Engagement and Dialogue with Society”. This initiative will be developed jointly by three ETH Domain institutions (WSL, Eawag, ETH Zürich) with the goal of providing conservation professionals (local, regional, and national authorities, planning offices and environmental consultancies, NGOs) with synthesized information on topics relevant to their daily work. The TCBC is steered by a board of practitioners, scientists, and the Centre Manager. The synthesis work will be carried out in topical working groups equally composed of scientists and practitioners. These working groups will be led by three postdoc-level scientists and the Centre Manager, each focusing on a particular field (terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, policy and governance), but forming a closely collaborating team.

This specific position of the TCBC will focus on synthesis products in the realm of terrestrial ecosystems in Switzerland. The scientist will lead - together with a member of the Centre’s board - working groups that develop synthesis products and disseminate them actively to conservation stakeholders. She/he will also be involved in activities and publications concerning the whole Centre.

• You have earned a PhD degree in biology, environmental sciences or a related field, or a MSc degree with substantial professional experience and further education in conservation.
• You should have a strong interest in collaborative work at the science-practice interface and a solid professional background in the ecology, biodiversity and conservation of terrestrial ecosystems.
• Good management skills, the ability to work in a team and strong writing and communication capabilities are needed for this position.
• It also requires good knowledge of at least one of the Swiss national languages and of English.
• Previous experience with practical conservation and stakeholder interactions is an asset.