Biology R&D Researcher - Fungal Cultivation & Bioassay Models

Axecium Therapeutics is a pharmaceutical R&D company specializing in fungi- and plant-derived medicines for unmet medical needs. As part of the Segal Pharma Group - a leading biotech and pharmaceutical organization with over five decades of experience (including Panaxia, Luminera, and more) - Axecium leverages the group’s expertise to design innovative pharmaceutical products while navigating complex regulatory landscapes in both Israel and the EU.

We are seeking a Biology R&D Researcher to lead and execute two core biological domains within Axecium’s pipeline:

1. Fungal Cultivation & Optimization

• Lead day-to-day fungal growth operations using medicinal mushroom species

• Develop, refine, and scale protocols for cultivation, harvesting, and extraction

• Drive R&D efforts to optimize growth conditions and yields

1. Bioassay Development & In-Vitro Models

• Design and perform in-vitro biological assays to evaluate the bioactivity of extracts and compounds

• Lead experiments using zebrafish embryo models and cell culture models - including protocol development, endpoint analysis, and optimization

As our main biological R&D team member, you will lead biology-focused projects from concept to execution. This includes reviewing scientific literature, designing and conducting experiments, optimizing protocols, and performing hands-on cultivation, extraction, and biological testing. You will collaborate closely with internal formulation and chemistry experts, as well as with external academic and commercial labs. Your work will play a central role in validating and advancing Axecium’s portfolio of fungi-based therapeutic candidates, from early discovery through preclinical evaluation.

This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role, ideal for a creative, independent researcher excited to work across mycology, cell biology, and pharmacological testing in a fast-paced and purpose-driven startup environment.

Requirements

• Education: MSc or PhD in Biology, Mycology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, or related fields. Talented current PhD students will also be considered.

• Hands-on experience (industry or academic) in at least one of the following is required (experience in more than one is a strong advantage):

 – Fungal cultivation and optimization

 – Zebrafish embryo models and assay development

 – Mammalian cell culture and assay development

• Strong skills in experimental design, troubleshooting, and scientific documentation

• Enthusiasm for research and creative solutions to scientific challenges

• Ability to work independently and proactively in a dynamic R&D environment

• Excellent time management, organizational skills, and scientific curiosity

• Comfortable working in a dynamic startup setting and ready to take ownership of biological R&D projects

Location: On-site, Lod, Israel

Position Type: Full-time

For CVs or questions: [email protected]