The WSL offers research scientists an outstanding environment for conducting research on terrestrial ecosystems. We apply state-of-the-art technology to providing maintenance for thousands of monitoring sites being managed on a long-term basis, as well as for various laboratories. We promote both transdisciplinary and intradisciplinary research through special programmes and initiatives.
Many students perform their practical work at the WSL at all stages of their educational careers. The fact that we are funded by the Federal Government through the Board of the ETH (Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology) not only ensures the continuity of financial resources, as well as infrastructure and personnel at the highest technical and scientific level, but also the greatest degree of scientific independence possible. Approximately one third of the budget comes from external third-party funds and is invested primarily in research projects.
Scientific integrity
Truthfulness, openness, self-criticism and fairness are the basis for the credibility and acceptance of science in society. Researchers at the WSL are committed to these values.
Clear rules form the foundation for excellence in research. The brochure on integrity in research highlights such rules and standards. It is based on guidelines issued in the ETH domain and on the recommendations of the Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences. In order to sustain a high level of research quality, each employee of the WSL is called upon to act responsibly and to comply with these guidelines.
Integrität in der Forschung an der WSL / Research Integrity at WSL (pdf, 2 MB)
Richtlinien für gute wissenschaftliche Praxis / Guidelines for Good Scientific Practice