<p>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 landscapes and habitats, and a responsible approach to natural hazards. WSL employs approximately 500 people, of whom 130 work at SLF in Davos. The Mountain Ecosystems research team studies the protection potential of vegetation against superficial soil failure and within the National Research Program 68 "Sustainable use of soil as a resource" is offering a position from spring 2013 for a </p><p>PhD student - Quantification of biological effects on soil stability</p><p>Based on direct shear tests, soil aggregate stability analyses, and rain simulation experiments you will analyse the contribution of plants and mycorrhizal fungi to soil stability in the laboratory and field. You will perform the soil mechanical investigations in close collaboration with the Institute for Geotechnical Engineering IGT at ETH Zürich. Furthermore, you will assist in micro- and molecular biological analyses of the plants and mycorrhizal fungi applied.</p><p>You have a Master degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering or environmental sciences, experience in experimental and practical work as well as data evaluation and database management and are fluent in English. You bring a sound basis in geotechnical engineering and are interested in ecology. You are a well organised and efficient worker with good oral and written communication skills, are able to work in a team, and willing to work at different Institutes (WSL, SLF, IGT). </p><p>Please send your complete application using reference number 772 to Jasmine Zimmermann, Human Resources WSL/SLF. Frank Graf, e-mail: [email protected], will be happy to answer any questions or offer further information.</p><p>Deadline for applications is mid-March 2013</p><p>- For applications in English, please login here: https://sv1.refline.ch/273855/0257/index.html?cid=1&lang=en </p><p>- Für Bewerbungen in Deutsch, bitte hier einloggen: https://sv1.refline.ch/273855/0256/index.html?cid=1&lang=de</p><p>WSL-Institut für Schnee- und Lawinenforschung SLF Flüelastrasse 11, CH-7260 Davos Dorf, Telefon +41-81-417 01 11, Fax +41-81-417 01 10, www.slf.ch</p>