MIT Scientist Wins $6M Defamation Verdict After Five-Year Legal Battle Over Sexual Misconduct Claims
Dr. David Sabatini, a former MIT and Whitehead Institute researcher, was awarded $6 million in damages by a Suffolk County jury on October 17, 2026. The verdict followed a five-year legal dispute with former colleague Dr. Kristin Knouse, who had accused Sabatini of sexual misconduct and coercion. The jury rejected Knouse's counterclaims, finding that Sabatini had defamed her. Sabatini had lost his position at the Whitehead Institute in 2021 after an internal investigation found he had fostered a sexualized atmosphere in his lab, though he maintained the relationship was consensual. The case involved text messages and testimony regarding the nature of their 2018-2019 relationship. Sabatini’s legal team argued Knouse sought to have him fired out of jealousy. The verdict does not resolve claims against the Whitehead Institute, which Sabatini’s team intends to pursue. Knouse’s attorneys plan to appeal. Sabatini, who has since relocated to Prague and Boston, expressed relief but noted the personal toll of the allegations, including threats against his family.