WSL - Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research, Switzerland

General details of the WSL, Switzerland to start your career in the environmental and forest research to provide solutions improving quality of life in a healthy environment

WSL - Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research, Switzerland
WSL headquarters with the Alps in the background. Image: Gottardo Pestalozzi, WSL

The WSL Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research is concerned with the use, development and protection of natural and urban spaces. The focus of WSL research is on solving problems to do with the responsible use of landscapes and forests and a prudent approach to natural hazards, especially those common in mountainous countries. WSL occupies a leading position internationally in these research areas.

As part of an ETH Domain research institute, the Confederation requires the WSL to provide cutting-edge research and social benefits, particularly for Switzerland. One of the WSL’s important national functions is to conduct the Swiss National Forest Inventory (NFI) and long-term forest ecosystem monitoring (LWF). It is particularly active in applied research, but basic research is also among its duties. SLF employees develop tools and guidelines for authorities, industry and the public in order to offer them support in natural hazard risk management and in the analysis of climatic and environmental changes. They also share their knowledge by teaching at domestic and foreign universities and by training other professionals.

WSL strives for excellence in terrestrial environmental research to provide solutions improving quality of life in a healthy environment.

Research for People and the Environment

  • WSL explores the dynamics of the terrestrial environment, and the use and protection of natural habitats and cultural landscapes.
  • WSL monitors forests, landscapes, biodiversity, natural hazards, and snow and ice.
  • WSL develops sustainable solutions for socially relevant issues – together with its partners from science and society