Story highlights Frances Arnold is researching how to "build through evolution"

Her techniques could help alleviate disease and climate change

Video producer's note: To some, it may seem like Caltech professor Frances Arnold is playing God. But to hear her say it, she is improving upon what nature started and solving some real-world issues in the process.

CNN caught up with the presidentially honored professor at her Caltech lab. In the video above she explains just how her theory and process of "directed evolution" works -- and what problems her research could help solve.

Do you think "directed evolution" is overstepping the bounds of science? Let us know in the comments.