Mycologist - R&D team

Company Description Taftirium is an Israeli biotech startup focused on developing high-performance, biodegradable materials made from fungi (mycelium) and agricultural waste. The company creates bio-materials designed to replace synthetic foams in construction and interior design applications. Taftirium’s products combine sustainability, aesthetics, and durability while supporting large-scale industrial use. Team members collaborate in a science-driven, innovation-oriented environment that aims to reduce environmental impact through practical, commercially viable solutions. Joining Taftirium offers an opportunity to shape the future of sustainable building materials in a fast-growing startup.Role Description The Mycologist will work on-site full time at Taftirium’s facility in 'Shamir research institute' in Katzrin, leading and supporting research on fungal strains and mycelium growth for material production. Day-to-day tasks include designing and conducting experiments, cultivating and maintaining fungal cultures, optimizing growth conditions on agricultural substrates, and documenting findings in a clear, structured manner. The role involves close collaboration with materials experts, process engineers, and production staff to translate laboratory results into scalable, repeatable manufacturing processes. The Mycologist will also contribute to quality control, troubleshooting culture or contamination issues, and recommending improvements to protocols and equipment. Participation in internal knowledge-sharing, safety compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives is expected.QualificationsStrong foundation in mycology, microbiology, or fungal biology, with experience culturing fungi and working with mycelium-based materials.Hands-on laboratory skills, including sterile technique, experimental design, data collection, and basic statistical analysis.Understanding of biomaterials, fermentation, or bioprocess development, especially in applications related to construction, packaging, or sustainable materials.Ability to document protocols and results clearly, prepare reports, and communicate findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mycology, Microbiology, Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field; advanced degree is an advantage.Experience working in a startup, industrial lab, or pilot-scale production environment is beneficial.Comfort working on-site in a laboratory and workshop setting, following safety standards and good laboratory practices.Collaborative mindset, problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt to evolving priorities in a growing company.