The ability to create synthetic materials that mimic the structural and mechanical properties of native tissues, like skin and fibrous tissues, is crucial for many biomaterials applications. Unfortunately, design of such materials remains a significant challenge. Many native tissues and synthetic soft biomaterials are comprised of polymer networks. What are the minimum properties that must be build into a synthetic polymer network in order to reproduce the properties of native tissues? Dr. Bhatia will discuss this issue, while drawing parallels between lessons learned from design of soft materials and challenges faced by women in science and engineering fields.