PostDoc Social scientist in Digital spatial planning – data and algorithms 80-100% (f/m/d)

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.

PostDoc Social scientist in Digital spatial planning – data and algorithms 80-100% (f/m/d) The research unit Land Change Science studies patterns, causes and processes of landscape change. The research group Land-Use Systems is offering a position within the DISCLOSE-project for the duration of two years (with the option for extension), starting in spring 2025, as a
Driven by digitalisation, spatial planning is undergoing significant change. This disruption has the potential to influence the way we plan and the way we deliver values such as equity, transparency and efficiency. The DISCLOSE project, funded with an advanced grant from the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), aims to understand the effects of the digital transformation of planning in the plan-making and plan-implementation process. You will investigate selected geoportals with planning data with a focus on the current state and recent development in terms of data and algorithms. The analysis of technical aspects of the portals, as well as documents and interviews with portal users and developers will provide input to develop a set of tools to assess the impact of digital data and algorithms on planning practice. Furthermore, in collaboration with the DISCLOSE team, you will integrate the findings into an overall theoretical model of how digitalization is changing spatial planning.
You hold a PhD degree in spatial planning, GIS-studies or related field. Furthermore, you have strong skills in qualitative social sciences and GIS. Knowledge of European spatial planning is an asset. A good publication record with respect to your career stage and a strong interest in the digitalization of planning complete your profile. A good command of English (spoken and written) is required, and knowledge of German and other European languages would be an advantage. You are interested in theory development and motivated to work in an interdisciplinary and international working environment.
Please send your complete application to Jeanine Gehrig, Human Resources WSL, by uploading the requested documents through our webpage. Applications via email will not be considered. The evaluation of applicants will begin in mid-February 2025, but the position will remain open until filled. Anna Hersperger, phone: +41 (0)44 739 2515, email: anna.hersperger@wsl.ch, 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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