EAST LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – LingLong Wei, a former student research assistant at Michigan State University, is filing a $100 million lawsuit against the university.
Wei claims that she is struggling with thyroid cancer after MSU ignored safety protocols and exposed her to dangerous chemicals without protective equipment or safety training.
Wei was enrolled at MSU from 2008-2011, pursuing a master’s degree in the Horticulture program.
According to the lawsuit, Wei and others were required to spray dangerous pesticides and herbicides, including glyphosate and oxyfluorfen, which have been linked to thyroid cancer.
The lawsuit alleges that MSU was aware of the dangers of these chemicals and failed to provide safety training and protective equipment to Wei and others, even after Wei requested it.
After Wei sought treatment for shortness of breath from Olin Health Center, officials said her symptoms were due to anxiety instead of exposure to toxic chemicals.
Wei was diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma on July 11, 2024, which the lawsuit says is directly linked to the chemical exposure.
Since then, she has had ongoing treatment, including having her thyroid removed.
“Let’s be clear. MSU knew these were dangerous, toxic chemicals, and they had the resources to protect Ms. Wei and her fellow student research assistants. But they chose not to,” said Maya Green, Wei’s attorney. “Once again, MSU has proven that they care more about cashing their students’ tuition checks than keeping them safe.”
In a statement to News 10, an MSU spokesperson responded:
While we cannot offer comment on pending litigation, we do want to emphasize that Michigan State University prioritizes the health and safety of our entire campus community. Appropriate and required training and necessary personal protective equipment is provided in compliance with applicable university policies and state and federal laws.
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