Inspired by nature’s ability to make seashells from proteins and minerals, the Belcher Lab uses the tools of biological engineering to create structures from proteins and copper—not unlike a copper seashell. The resulting crystals, seen here under an electron microscope, artificially do the work of photosynthesis: turning water, carbon dioxide, and energy into sugars and alcohols. By experimenting with the orientation and organization of atoms in the crystalized copper, researchers are working to optimize their synthetic “seashells” to reduce waste and lower manufacturing costs for more effective production of carbon-neutral fuels.