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 Soils and Biogeochemistry research unit investigates the impacts of climate change on soil biodiversity, soil functions, and ecosystem processes. The Biogeochemistry research group is looking from June 1, 2025 for a
PhD student in Plant Water Relations
Extreme droughts and heatwaves are increasingly threatening forest ecosystems in Switzerland, altering water availability and leading to tree stress. The DeepDrought project aims to advance our understanding of plant reliance on deep soil water and its role in mitigating drought stress. We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to assess species-specific root water uptake patterns, dendrometer derived tree water deficit, and water use efficiency across Swiss forests using a combination of field observations, stable isotope analyses, and predictive modeling. The PhD candidate will focus on assessing plant reliance on deep soil water and will work closely with a multidisciplinary team across the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow, and Landscape Research (WSL), ETH Zürich, and the Technical University of Munich (TUM). The research will contribute to refining our understanding of plant-water interactions and enhancing climate resilience strategies for Swiss forests.
Qualifications:
1. You hold a master’s degree in environmental sciences, hydrology, ecology, forestry, or a related field.
2. Experience with field data collection, particularly soil or plant water measurements, is an asset.
3. A strong background in statistical analysis is desirable.
4. Familiarity with stable isotope data, dendrometry, or soil hydrology is advantageous.
5. Proficiency in programming languages such as R or Python for data analysis and modeling is required.
6. You are highly motivated, independent, and eager to collaborate in an interdisciplinary research team.
7. Excellent English skills are necessary, and knowledge of German or French is a plus but not essential.
Please send your complete application to Beatrice Lamprecht, Human Resources WSL, by uploading the requested documents through our webpage. Applications via email will not be considered. Katrin Meusburger, phone +41 (0) 44 739 2490, 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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