Many of the "next-gen" high-throughput whole-genome sequencing technologies are actually PCR using fancy substrates. This isn't that, but maybe it will turn you on a bit to PCR.
In general, PCR is useful anytime you want to isolate, amplify, or manipulate relatively short stretches of DNA.
Do you want to isolate a gene and knock-in a mutation that is known to cause a genetic defect so you can study it? Do you want to tag that gene with a fluorescent tail? Do you need to stitch together several shorter DNA components into a single unit (perhaps joining a zinc finger to a nuclease and creating your very own targeted DNA-cutting enzyme)?
In general, PCR is useful anytime you want to isolate, amplify, or manipulate relatively short stretches of DNA.
Do you want to isolate a gene and knock-in a mutation that is known to cause a genetic defect so you can study it? Do you want to tag that gene with a fluorescent tail? Do you need to stitch together several shorter DNA components into a single unit (perhaps joining a zinc finger to a nuclease and creating your very own targeted DNA-cutting enzyme)?
If so, PCR might be for you.