Former MSU Student Files $100M Lawsuit Over Alleged Pesticide Exposure

EAST LANSING, Mich. (Aug. 18, 2025) — A former Michigan State University student research assistant filed a $100 million lawsuit Monday, alleging that exposure to dangerous pesticides during her studies caused her to develop thyroid cancer.

LingLong Wei, who earned her master's degree in horticulture from 2008 to 2011, contends she spent thousands of hours spraying hazardous chemicals—including paraquat dichloride, glyphosate, and oxyfluorfen—without receiving required personal protective equipment or proper training. She says her requests for safety measures were ignored.

Wei was diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma in July 2024. The lawsuit says she underwent surgery, resulting in a permanent scar, hormonal imbalances, and anxiety over potential infertility.

Her attorneys seek compensation for medical costs, emotional distress, diminished earning capacity, and punitive damages, alleging gross negligence by the university and specific officials, including the horticulture department and the Office of International Students and Scholars.

University spokesperson Amber McCann declined to comment on pending litigation but emphasized that MSU "prioritizes the health and safety of our entire campus community" and claims it provides appropriate training and equipment in compliance with university, state, and federal policies.