We study a vast array of processes in rock physics, ranging in scale from 10-nm to 1-cm, where subsurface engineering interfaces with nanofluidics and with nanomechanics. Our goal is to quantitatively determine how small-scale processes control the large-scale (~ 1 cm) behavior in shale and carbonate formations. Our laboratory is designed specifically to conduct high-precision measurements to develop physically representative models. The standard measurements, conducted on core plugs or blocks, are used to test our results but they are not the main focus of our research. Current activities include laboratory experiments, theoretical investigations, developments of predictive models, and engineering and scientific applications.