Crenarchaea (crenarchaeota) are one of several phyla in the archaeal domain. They include hyperthermophiles with wide ranging pH optima and mesophilic neutrophiles that colonize soil and marine environments. Our development of genetic systems for thermoacidophilic crenarchaeota leverage available genome sequences and exemplify traditional academic strength in genetic systems analysis. Functional genomic strategies combined with directed metabolic engineering create new oppportunities for product development. Examples to be discussed include; i) Biomining focusing on the relationship between metal resistance and oxidation; ii) Bioenergy production using self replicating biocatalysts for lignocellulosic deconvolution and saccharafication; and iii) Biofeedstock development using redox-active hyperthermophilic enzymes.