The research in Rubinstein’s group focuses on developing simple physical models of soft matter and biological systems ranging from polymeric elastomers and gels to extracellular matrix and mucus in human lungs. We perform computer simulations and experiments to test our theoretical models, then modify our theoretical models or develop new theories to explain the results of experiments and simulations. We extensively collaborate with experimental, computational, and theoretical groups at Duke, within the Research Triangle, at other universities and research laboratories in the US and world-wide.