CRISPR has revolutionized both gene editing and biomedical research since its discovery just over a decade ago. The CRISPR-Cas9 system is comparatively easy to use, cost-effective, and applicable to a wide range of model systems and organisms. In this talk, I will introduce the fundamental principles of CRISPR-Cas9, its applications, and various design and delivery strategies for both in vitro and in vivo studies. Additionally, I will discuss the expanded CRISPR toolbox, including the use of inactivated Cas9 (deadCas9) for gene activation and repression (CRISPRa/i).  Finally, I will briefly explore how CRISPR, in combination with human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), can be leveraged to create in vitro human model systems for developmental biology research and disease modeling.