Overview
The research of the Rubinstein group is in the field of polymer theory and computer simulations. The unique properties of polymeric systems are due to the size, topology and interactions of the molecules they are made of. Our goal is to understand the properties of various polymeric systems and to design new systems with even more interesting and useful properties.
Our approach is based upon building and solving simple molecular models of different polymeric systems. The models we develop are simple enough to be solved either analytically or numerically, but contain the main features leading to unique properties of real polymers. Computer simulations of our models serve as an important bridge between analytical calculations and experiments.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Aleksandar S. Vesic Distinguished Professor
·
2020 - Present
Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science,
Pratt School of Engineering
Professor in the Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science
·
2018 - Present
Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science,
Pratt School of Engineering
Professor of Chemistry
·
2018 - Present
Chemistry,
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Professor of Physics
·
2018 - Present
Physics,
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Professor of Biomedical Engineering
·
2018 - Present
Biomedical Engineering,
Pratt School of Engineering
Recent Publications
Tuning the Ultimate Strain of Single and Double Network Gels Through Reactive Strand Extension.
Journal Article ACS central science · October 2025 The stretchability (ability to be elongated) and toughness (capacity to absorb energy before breaking) of polymer network materials, such as elastomers and hydrogels, often determine their utility and lifetime. Direct correlations between the molecular beh ... Full text CitePolymer Solutions under Steady Solvent Flow between Two Semipermeable Interfaces
Journal Article Macromolecules · August 12, 2025 Pressure differentials across polymer solutions cause fluid flow. We develop a theory for the spatial variation of polymer concentration in solutions under steady flow between two interfaces permeable to the solvent but not to the polymer. The balance betw ... Full text CiteRubber that lasts longer
Journal Article Nature Sustainability · June 1, 2025 Natural rubber has many uses in a variety of industries, enabled by ‘crosslinking’ between its tangled polymers, which creates elasticity. But rubber can crack and suffer fatigue. It is now shown that reducing the crosslink density in highly entangled natu ... Full text CiteRecent Grants
Multi-Scale Investigations of Respiratory Mucus/Mucin Structure and Function in Health and Disease
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill · 2022 - 2027NSF Center for the Chemistry of Molecularly Optimized Networks
ResearchSenior Investigator · Awarded by National Science Foundation · 2021 - 2026Multi-Scale Investigations of Respiratory Mucus/Mucin Structure and Function in Health and Disease
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill · 2023 - 2025View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
Harvard University ·
1983
Ph.D.