Challenges for Polymer Theory and Simulation

I will discuss some contemporary topics in polymer physics that represent challenges for theorists and computer simulators in the coming decade. These are: \begin{itemize} \item The challenge of multiple scales -- bridging the atomistic to the continuum \item Structure-property relations for nanocomposites \item Supramolecular polymer assembly \item Science and engineering of conjugated polymer interfaces -- electronic structure meets polymer physics \item Rheology and structure of inhomogeneous polymers \item Ultimate mechanical properties of everything polymeric \end{itemize} There are common aspects to these challenging topics; for example, multiple scales and the curse of dimensionality are pervasive. My presentation will touch on the theoretical tools that are needed to conduct research in these areas, and will highlight a few contributions from my own group.