Synthetic biology is a rigorous engineering discipline that aims to create, control and program biological behaviour. We have recently entered this field with the main goal of using rationally designed molecules to gain better control over biological processes. The RNA origami method can be used to express well-defined nanostructures in cell-like environments, where they can be used to scaffold biological components. By integrating our experience on biomolecular design processes with deep knowledge of biological and biochemical events, we aim to develop valuable tools for the production of complex synthetic nanodevices inside cells. AFM image by Cody Geary