When a synthetic polymeric material is exposed to a biological system, the response depends on its physicochemical properties. I think it is possible to exploit this response to maximize the performance of new biomaterials. Drawing on my experience working to understand the interactions of rod-like nanoparticles with cell systems as well as developing new and sustainable polysaccharide-based materials, I intend to engineer new polymer materials using intentional design strategies to direct biological responses and treat disease.