Join a cutting-edge postdoc in forest genomics with top-tier salary in Switzerland! The Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL), in collaboration with the Horizon Europe-funded OptFORESTS project, is inviting applications for a postdoctoral researcher in ecological genomics of white oaks.
This is a fully funded postdoctoral position (80–100% workload), starting October 1, 2025, offering the chance to work on climate adaptation, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and advanced ecological modeling.
🌍 About the Project – OptFORESTS (Horizon Europe)
Climate change is transforming European forestry. The OptFORESTS consortium integrates whole-genome sequencing, tree-ring phenotyping, and climate data modeling to enhance the climate resilience of white oak forests across Europe.
As a postdoctoral researcher, you’ll contribute to shaping forest sustainability through advanced genomic techniques and high-impact research dissemination.
🧬 Core Responsibilities
1. Genome-Phenotype Integration
- Conduct GWAS on 1,000+ white oak genomes from pan-European common garden trials.
- Analyze associations between genetic variants, tree-ring traits (e.g., wood density, growth rate), and historical climate data.
2. Landscape Genomics & Simulation Modeling
- Perform landscape-level population genomic analyses to detect patterns of adaptation and gene flow.
- Use forward-in-time simulation tools (e.g., SLiM) to model oak population dynamics under future IPCC climate scenarios.
3. Research Communication & Outreach
- Publish in leading journals (Molecular Ecology, Evolutionary Applications).
- Present findings at international conferences (ESEB, ESA, IUFRO).
- Translate results into applied forestry articles for outlets like Schweizerische Zeitschrift für Forstwesen.
👩🔬 Ideal Candidate Profile
| Must-Have Qualifications | Preferred Additional Skills |
|---|---|
| PhD in Biology, Forestry, Environmental or Life Sciences | First-author publications in ecological genomics |
| Experience in population genetics, bioinformatics | Prior work on white oak or temperate tree species |
| Skills in GWAS, landscape genomics, and simulations | Knowledge of R, Python, and HPC workflows |
| Fluent in English; capable of independent work | German/French proficiency for community and media outreach |
Diversity & Inclusion:
WSL encourages applications from individuals of all genders, backgrounds, and experiences.
🇨🇭 Why Work at WSL in Switzerland?
- Top European Postdoc Salary – Highly competitive, tax-friendly packages.
- Modern Research Facilities – Genomics core, dendrochronology labs, HPC clusters.
- Work-Life Balance – 41-hour work week, 5 weeks’ paid vacation, family-friendly culture.
- Relocation Perks – Safe, clean, and multilingual environment with world-class public transport.
- Alpine Lifestyle – Nature, culture, and career in one of Europe’s most livable countries.
📈 Boosted Keywords:
Relocation to Switzerland, cost of living in Switzerland, postdoc work-life balance Europe, research jobs in forest genomics
📑 How to Apply – Postdoc in Forest Genomics
Application Deadline: Ongoing until position is filled
Start Date: October 1, 2025
Submit your complete application package through the official WSL portal:
👉 Apply Here
Required Documents:
- Cover Letter (motivation & qualifications)
- CV with publication list and references
- PhD certificate and academic transcripts
- Contact details of at least 2 referees
Note: Applications sent via email will not be considered.
For Scientific Inquiries:
Dr. Christian Rellstab
📧 christian.rellstab@wsl.ch
📞 +41 44 739 25 42
🌱 Shape the Future of Forest Sustainability
This is your chance to drive innovation in climate-resilient forestry, apply genomic insights for real-world impact, and grow your career in one of the most beautiful and scientifically advanced countries in the world.
Start your postdoc journey in ecological genomics—apply now!