Lars Patek was a male Human civilian scientist working for the Daystrom Institute in the 24th century. In October of 2380, Dr. Patek argued before the Federation Judiciary Council that the android B-4 was not a sentient being, and that the Institute should be permitted to dismantle it for study. Patek was opposed by Starfleet Captain Bruce Maddox. (ST novel: Articles of the Federation)