The Patel Lab is a research group focused on evolutionary developmental biology, or EvoDevo, and the mechanisms that shape the diversity of animal forms. Based at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, the lab investigates how developmental pathways have been conserved or altered across arthropods. Its work examines how changes in developmental and molecular processes influence pattern formation and contribute to the diversification of body morphology and development.

Research areas include segmentation, body regionalization and limb formation; germline specification and regeneration; and structural color, scale morphology and compartment boundaries. The lab shares its research through publications and provides resources such as protocols, instructional materials, image galleries and movies. Its website also features lab members, former members, announcements and news.

Led by Nipam Patel, Ph.D., Director of the Marine Biological Laboratory and a Professor at the University of Chicago, the group includes researchers at different career stages, including undergraduates. The lab emphasizes a supportive, collaborative environment and welcomes prospective members to explore its opportunities.