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 Biodiversity and Conservation Biology research unit, investigates the diversity of life in its various forms, from genetic to the diversity of species and ecosystems as well as their interactions. For 5 months , starting in February 2026 , the Community Ecology research group is looking for a

You will participate to research projects focusing on soil biodiversity and functions. You will conduct laboratory work in the molecular biology and biogeochemistry labs, including DNA extractions from environmental samples and preparations for metabarcoding, quantification of microbial functional genes, microbial carbon use efficiency, microbial biomass, and measurements of soil physicochemical parameters (phosphate, total N and C, texture fractionation).

You have recently completed a Bachelor degree in biology or environmental sciences, with a background in microbiology and/or ecology and have basic skills in molecular biology, including some practical experience in the laboratory. You are fluent in English and have excellent communication skills and a high level of team spirit.