Yassine Damergi

Yassine earned his Master’s degree in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics from ETH Zurich, completing his thesis in Jonathan Weissman’s lab at MIT. His research dissected the mRNA sequence requirements driving ILF3-mediated transcriptional adaptation, uncovering short RNA sequences capable of modulating gene expression through antisense interactions—pointing to the potential of trigger RNAs and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) as novel therapeutic tools for genetic disorders.

In the Aguirre’s lab, he focuses on optimizing datopotamab-based antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) for pancreatic cancer. His work integrates 2D cell line and 3D organoid models to identify potent payload–antibody combinations and to elucidate mechanisms of ADC internalization, drug sensitivity, and resistance, supporting the design of next-generation targeted therapies.

Outside the lab, Yassine is passionate about functional hybrid training (HYROX).