David is a senior associate with RMI, leading research efforts across various technology verticals in the industry and energy sectors on the Third Derivative team. He plays a key role in sourcing and conducting diligence on startups for inclusion in Third Derivative’s portfolio. David also develops investment insights and evidence-based frameworks to help Third Derivative’s investors and corporate partners identify and deploy the most promising emerging climate solutions based on impact and competitiveness.

Background

Before joining RMI, David spent 10 years in academia as a materials science researcher, where he focused on developing nanomaterials for application in energy production/storage, next-generation computing architectures, and solid-state battery technologies. During his academic career, David developed deep appreciation for the ways in which materials science innovations could change how we make and store energy and manufacture products globally and its effect on climate. This led him to pursue a career focused on helping these technologies scale out of the laboratory. Originally from Iowa, David now lives in New York City and enjoys Broadway, the excellent NYC cuisine, and escaping to the mountains of the Northeast.

Education

PhD, Materials Science, Yale University
MS, Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Yale University
BA, Physics and Mathematics, Coe College