Meet Our Team
Our team of polymer chemists and engineers are dedicated to solving the worldwide plastics problem together. Deimos Materials is an independent company committed to supporting its employees as we grow.
David J. Goldfeld, PhD
Founder and CEO
David received his PhD in Polymer Chemistry from the University of Minnesota in 2020, where he worked with Prof. Marc Hillmyer as a part of the NSF Center for Sustainable Polymers. After completing a postdoctoral research position with Prof. Craig Hawker at the University of California, Santa Barbara, David became the CTO of Phoam Labs, where he commercialized the world's first compostable floral foam, a product he had invented during graduate school. In 2025, David founded Deimos Materials to bring new sustainable plastics to traditional consumer products. David is an avid curler and film connoisseur.
Darren Smith
Co-founder
Darren received a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois and then started a 25 year career at General Mills. Working his way from plant engineer to plant manager to Vice President of the company, Darren served as the head of global Environmental Health and Safety before taking over as head of worldwide contract manufacturing. Darren retired in 2021 and spent several years as a consultant specializing in manufacturing operations and people management. Darren co-founded Deimos Materials in 2025, bringing his expertise to the sustainable resin market. In his free time, Darren is an active farmer and fisherman.
Deborah Schneiderman
Co-founder
Debbie received her PhD in Polymer Chemistry from the University of Minnesota in 2016, where she worked with Prof. Marc Hillmyer as a part of the NSF Center for Sustainable Polymers. Her work included the synthesis of novel monomers with a focus on sustainable polyester elastomers. Debbie completed a postdoctoral research position at the University of Chicago working with Prof. Stuart Rowan before returning to the Twin Cities to join 3M. She would later spin-off as a part of Solventum, working on resins for the medical industry. Debbie is an avid gardener and has a full flock of chickens in her backyard.