Current Protests Against Sabatini for Alleged Sexual Harassment
Recently, sexual harassment allegations led to a staged walkout at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine. Graduates, faculty and alumni protested a potential hiring of Dr. David Sabatini. Dr. Sabatini is a biologist involved in a legal case over alleged sexual harassment.
The New York Times reported that students felt betrayed over the fact the university was considering Sabatini.
Facts from a Legal Perspective
Prominent in his field, Dr. Sabatini is well known for the discovery of mTOR protein. It is a protein that regulates cell growth in animals.
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) placed Sabatini on administrative leave in August 2021. Sabatini ran a research lab through the Whitehead Institute of Biomedical research. MIT conducted an investigation into the sexual harassment allegations made against him. A law firm separate from the university conducted the investigation, and their conclusion was he had violated the institute’s sexual misconduct policy. Sabatini also resigned the same day and Howard Hughes Medical Institute which had funded his work at M.I.T. fired him.
What the school had found was that he violated the school’s policy on consensual romantic relationships in the workplace. His “unprofessional” behavior with lab members concerned them.
The school also received letters written by faculty members urging the school not to recruit Dr. Sabatini.
Sabatini’s Legal Actions
In October 2021, Dr. Sabatini filed a lawsuit against the Whitehead Institute and his accuser, a former colleague. He claimed he had been falsely accused by the colleague and that they had had a consensual relationship. He said he “intended to set the record straight and stand up for his integrity.”
The accuser filed a countersuit in December based on claims that Dr. Sabatini coerced her into having sex and had created a “toxic and sexually charged lab environment.” She alleged he “groomed” her while she was still a graduate student.
The Employer’s Position
The university finds itself uncompromising position dealing with a challenging PR situation. It released a letter stating:
“While we understand there are still legal proceedings in progress and that the public does not yet have all of the facts, we are worried that this hiring would signal a shift in policy that conflicts with our commitment to provide a respectful training environment, a culture of respect for women, and zero tolerance of misconduct.”
How the courts rule on the two cases that allege sexual harassment remains to be seen.
As an employer, do you have questions about how to deal with sexual harassment allegations?
If you have questions or concerns, it is wise to get a legal opinion. You can consult with our attorneys at Stephen D. Hans & Associates, P.C. We are glad to provide you with experienced legal guidance. Call (718) 275-6500 to arrange an appointment.