ABSTRACT: Through centuries of evolution, nature has developed biopolymers capable of folding and assembling into discrete structures with a functional consequence. Inspired by this, our lab focuses on engineering “intelligent” protein materials with entirely new properties and function. In particular, our lab has fabricated protein-derived nanomaterials: helix-elastin block polymers and coiled-coil fibers. We investigate the fundamental self-assembly and molecular recognition capabilities of these systems. More importantly, we are able to harness these structures to interface with small molecule therapeutics, cells and inorganic metals as theranostic agents.