A diverse group of theoretical scientists and engineers will investigate the mechanical behavior of nanoscale crystalline solids, biological materials, and combined solid-state--biological systems. Our strategy will be to develop broadly applicable theoretical and computational methods by examining three paradigmatic nanomechanics problems: friction in NEMS, the mechanics of biological materials, and the design and simulation of bio-functionalized NEMS devices . We will supplement these research and educational activities with an extensive outreach program, consisting of a summer school on nanomechanics and a public lecture series on nanoscale science and engineering.