Samuel Sternberg’s lab is broadly interested in discovering diverse, programmable functions of non-coding RNA molecules in the cell. From guiding the site-specific insertion of DNA transposons, to targeting foreign pathogens for DNA cleavage, to templating the synthesis of novel antiviral genes, RNAs direct remarkably complex biochemical reactions in coordination with accessory enzymes. Another cross-cutting theme of the lab is gene exaptation, whereby genes shift their function over long evolutionary timescales as they shuffle between cells, viruses, and selfish genetic elements. By mining these rich areas of biology, Sternberg’s lab also pioneers the development of RNA-guided genome engineering technologies.