Dr. Matthew Mickens is the Chief Science Officer of Elevate Farms, which is an up-and-coming launcher of indoor vertical farms globally. Current indoor farm construction locations include Canada, US, and New Zealand. Previously, he was a Plant Scientist at NASA Kennedy Space Center where he produced groundbreaking publications on LED lighting recipes for salad crops grown aboard the International Space Station and beyond.

As Executive Director, Derek provides overall leadership and strategic direction. Derek engages RII’s advisory bodies, including the Strategic Advisory Council and Technical Advisory Council Leadership Committees, develops global partnerships and oversees the organization’s policy work.

Before RII, Derek led Clean Energy Works, recognized as one of the most successful American Recovery & Reinvestment Act ("stimulus") programs. He has directed energy programs for the City of Portland, managed operations for a VC-backed start-up and created an award-winning corporate sustainability program for a national retailer. Derek has testified to the US Senate Energy Committee and briefed the US Secretary of Energy.

Derek enjoys playing and listening to a range of music, soccer (especially his hometown Portland Timbers), hiking and travel.