WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF The WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF is part of the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL and thus of the ETH Domain. WSL focuses on the sustainable use and protection of the environment and on the handling of natural hazards. WSL employs approximately 600 people, of whom 180 work at SLF in Davos.
Within the and the Climate Change, Extremes and Natural Hazards in Alpine Regions, we are seeking a
PhD student „Large-Scale modelling of Snow Avalanches and Forest interactions" 80 - 100% (f/m/d)
As part of the SNSF project Ava-Force “Avalanche mitigation and forest dynamics under climate change in the mountains of southeastern Europe and the Alps” and in close collaboration with research partners in Romania and Bulgaria, you will develop methods for large-scale simulations of various avalanche scenarios under changing environmental conditions. A specific focus will be on optimally accounting for and integrating the protective effects of forests. The position also includes scientific publications, international presentations, and coordination of project management tasks with partner institutions. You will also be involved in the project management and the coordination between the international research partners. You publish your results in scientific journals and present them at international conferences. You have an MSc in Geosciences, Geoinformatics, Environmental Sciences. or a related field with a strong interest in modelling of gravitational mass movements and/or protective functions of mountain forests. Ideally you have experience with modern GIS-technology and are confident in alpine terrain, including in winter. Research or practical experience, for example by working for an engineering company dealing with natural hazards – is also an asset. You are fluent in English, have sound skills in German and like to work exactly and independently but are still a teamplayer.