The ability to manipulate the chemistry of small molecules and macromolecules has long been a focus of modern chemical research. Post-genomic advances in DNA sequencing and synthesis have revolutionized our ability to re-encode genetic function and begin designing living cells and organisms using synthetic biology approaches. Living systems have evolved streamlined solutions to many challenges that face chemists today, such as the ability to carry out multi-step chemical syntheses from renewable resources, to sense target analytes with high selectivity and sensitivity, and to construct advanced materials from earth-abundant elements. Thus, synthetic biology offers new opportunities for innovation in chemistry by tapping into these functions and providing an inexpensive and sustainable path for chemical production and device engineering. This symposium explores recent advances in the design of parts and devices used for construction of new chemical functions in cells, as well as either application to the production of pharmaceuticals, fuels, and materials.