https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9738-882X
Overview
The primary goal of research in the Patek laboratory is to examine the dynamic interplay between evolutionary processes and the mechanics of organisms.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Professor of Biology
·
2019 - Present
Biology,
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Recent Publications
Biphasic tentacle strike kinematics in predatory cuttlefish.
Journal Article The Journal of experimental biology · March 2026 Cuttlefish extend soft tentacles to capture evasive prey. High speed imaging of tentacle prey capture in two cuttlefish species reveals kinematically discrete, biphasic tentacle extension. A prolonged reach phase, often extending distances greater than the ... Full text CiteJEB launches a new article type for theory and modelling studies.
Journal Article The Journal of experimental biology · December 2024 Full text CiteThrough the looking glass: attempting to predict future opportunities and challenges in experimental biology.
Journal Article The Journal of experimental biology · December 2023 To celebrate its centenary year, Journal of Experimental Biology (JEB) commissioned a collection of articles examining the past, present and future of experimental biology. This Commentary closes the collection by considering the important research opportu ... Full text CiteRecent Grants
Collaborative Research: Moving with muscles vs. springs: evolutionary biomechanics of extremely fast, small systems
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Science Foundation · 2020 - 2026Evolutionary Mechanics of Impulsive Biological Systems: Guiding Scalable Synthetic Design
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Army Research Office · 2015 - 2024Fast Movements, Impacts and Deformations: Nature, Robotics and Materials
ConferencePrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Army Research Office · 2022 - 2023View All Grants
Education
Duke University ·
2001
Ph.D.