We are not emphasizing areas like genomics and combinatorial chemistry because we have mastered protein engineering, but because for many, a general solution of the problem does not appear anywhere in sight. Frequently, markets for protein engineering are perceived in a somewhat distorted way in the academic world. I believe, for instance, we have to overcome the emphasis on the huge market for therapeutics. There, a modified protein is primarily a potential immunogen. What is fascinating about proteins is, that they are complex systems.
Complex systems turn up wherever biology is really interesting.
Protein engineering provides one motif to seek a true understanding. An advance in this field would be truly fundamental. I would be glad to append comments on this page.