East Lansing, Michigan, August 26, 2025

News Summary

LingLong Wei, a former graduate student at Michigan State University, has filed a $100 million lawsuit claiming her thyroid cancer diagnosis was caused by exposure to hazardous pesticides during her studies. The lawsuit cites a lack of proper training and protective equipment while handling dangerous substances. Wei underwent surgery and has raised concerns about the safety protocols in place for student researchers, particularly those from international backgrounds. The case may prompt discussions on regulatory standards in educational institutions regarding pesticide exposure.

East Lansing, Michigan – Former Michigan State University Graduate Student Sues for $100 Million Over Thyroid Cancer

LingLong Wei, a former graduate student at Michigan State University (MSU), has filed a lawsuit seeking $100 million in damages due to a thyroid cancer diagnosis she claims is linked to her exposure to hazardous pesticides while studying at the university. The lawsuit was filed on Monday, alleging that the conditions during her time at MSU from 2008 to 2011 were detrimental to her health.

Wei pursued a master’s degree in horticulture during her studies at MSU. She asserts that her cancer diagnosis, confirmed last summer, directly resulted from her exposure to specific pesticides, including paraquat dichloride, glyphosate, and oxyfluorfen. These chemicals have been associated with various health risks and have raised concerns regarding their safety, particularly for researchers in agricultural studies.

The lawsuit outlines that Wei was not given proper training or protective equipment when handling these hazardous substances. In her claim, she mentions feeling responsible for not advocating for stronger safety protocols, as she was assured by MSU officials during her studies that the exposure was harmless.

In addition to her cancer diagnosis, Wei, who hails from China, has undergone surgery that left her with a permanent scar near her throat. She expressed specific concerns regarding international students’ wellbeing, suggesting that their health concerns may be neglected by the university.

Wei’s attorney argues that Wei was ill-equipped to handle the responsibilities of her research tasks and that other student researchers might have faced similar health risks due to inadequate safety measures at the university. The lawsuit also claims that in 2010, Wei experienced shortness of breath after being in contact with the aforementioned pesticides, but her symptoms were dismissed at MSU’s health center, where she was told her issues were merely anxiety-related.

The defendants named in the lawsuit include MSU, the board of trustees, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Department of Horticulture, and specific individuals connected with the university. MSU spokesperson Amber McCann, in response to the lawsuit, emphasized the university’s commitment to health and safety standards and claimed compliance with laws regarding training and the provision of protective equipment.

The allegations in Wei’s lawsuit underscore serious concerns about the safety protocols in place for student researchers at universities. This case could prompt discussions on regulations and protections for those working with hazardous materials in academic settings, particularly concerning the health and safety of international students.

Background Context

Michigan State University (MSU) is known for its agricultural programs, allowing students to engage with practical environmental sciences. However, the potential risks associated with pesticide exposure have become a topic of serious concern, particularly as studies increasingly reflect a correlation between pesticide exposure and health issues, including various forms of cancer.

As regulations continue to evolve regarding chemical use in educational institutions, the outcome of Wei’s lawsuit may set a precedent regarding standards of care and the handling of hazardous materials in academic settings.

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Additional Resources

• AOL News
• Detroit Free Press
• CBS News Detroit
• Wikipedia: Pesticide
• Google Search: Michigan State University pesticides lawsuit

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