Swiss Federal Research Institute WSL

Research 19.11.2025

Where pepper grows

Pepper was overtaken by climate change during its post-glacial spread, a new study by the WSL shows.

A dense cluster of green leaves can be seen, growing in different sizes and shapes. Some leaves are shiny and show water spots, while others appear dull. The plants convey a feeling of freshness and lush growth.

Research 13.11.2025

Beavers create habitats for bats

A study shows that land animals benefit from beaver dam construction – for example, endangered bats.

A beaver stands near a riverbank, amidst green foliage and fallen branches. It is engaged in chewing on some plant material, showcasing its characteristic fur and sturdy build. The setting is natural, with water visible in the foreground and dense vegetation in the background.

Institutional 12.11.2025

Seven highly cited researchers at WSL

Katrin Meusburger and Yann Vitasse from WSL are now on the list of the world’s most influential researchers in their field.

A woman with long brown hair is smiling at the camera, wearing a dark sweater. She stands outdoors surrounded by autumn foliage, with warm tones of orange and yellow in the background. The overall scene conveys a sense of warmth and approachability.

Research 05.11.2025

Dead wood brings life to the forest

In a study based on long-term data, WSL researchers show that woodpecker populations grow when there is more deadwood.

Three-toed woodpecker perched on dead tree trunk against clear blue sky.

Research for people and the environment in a changing world ¶

News

Institutional

24.11.2025

Man standing in front of a blackboard with physics formulas

The students of ETH Zurich have voted: SLF researcher Johan Gaume receives the Golden Owl 2025 for excellent teaching.

Research

18.11.2025

Two hikers stand on rocky terrain, looking towards a large, glacial formation that contrasts with the surrounding arid landscape. The sharp spikes of snow and ice are typical of dry mountain regions. Meltwater streams pour from the glacier. The backdrop features rugged mountains.

Study shows: Andean glaciers will not be able to buffer a megadrought similar to the current one.

Research

14.11.2025

DNA from air, soil and water is analysed in WSL's clean laboratory. See how this method is used to identify fungi species.

Services and products

07.11.2025

The Best of Swiss Apps jury has named White Risk, the SLF app for avalanche prevention, Master of Swiss Apps.

Research

06.11.2025

Art meets science: an animated film shows how WSL researchers are monitoring mountain hares in a changing climate.

Services and products

03.11.2025

Diagram shows different tree species in a three-dimensional grid with labels for growth, competition, reproduction, seed production, seed dispersal and mortality.

Forests, rockfalls and insects: researchers at WSL and SLF are modelling nature. How, why and for whom explains the new DIAGONAL.

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Events

26 February 2026

Dieser Workshop bietet eine Plattform, um sich über die Herausforderungen und Herangehensweisen bei Planung, Gestaltung und Umsetzung von…

12 March 2026

Dieser Workshop bietet eine Plattform, um sich über die Herausforderungen und Herangehensweisen bei Planung, Gestaltung und Umsetzung von…

17 March 2026

Der Waldboden speichert im Schnitt mehr Kohlenstoff als die oberirdische Biomasse – und er tut weit mehr: Er ist Lebensraum für unzählige…

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Research for people and the environment in a changing world ¶

News

“Everything should be made as simple as possible.”

The Future Fate of Glaciers in the Andes

Analysing DNA from the environment

White Risk is Switzerland's best app

Animated film on the mountain hare and climate

Top models and hard facts: calculating the world

Events

Multifunktionale Lösungen für Städte der Zukunft

Multifunktionale Lösungen für Städte der Zukunft - Tag2

Waldböden im Klimawandel - Runder Waldtisch