A former Michigan State University student, LingLong Wei, has launched a $100 million lawsuit against the institution, alleging exposure to harmful chemicals while working as a student research assistant. Wei, who conducted research as part of her master's degree in horticulture from 2008 to 2011, was diagnosed with thyroid cancer last year. Her attorneys claim that the cancer is directly linked to the toxic chemicals she was required to handle during her research duties.
According to CBS News Detroit, Wei was exposed to "dangerous pesticides and herbicides including, glyphosate, and oxyfluorfen," which have been specifically connected to thyroid cancer. The suit alleges that even after she requested safety equipment and training, which should have been provided by the university, her pleas were ignored. Compounding her situation, symptoms such as shortness of breath were reportedly dismissed as anxiety by the university's health center rather than being recognized as signs of exposure to dangerous substances.
Wei's litigation is supported by strong words from her legal representation. "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," attorney Maya Green stated, as reported by WILX.
In defense, Michigan State University spokesperson Amber McCann retorted, "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," as noted by WWMT. Despite the university's response, the legal team for Wei plans to press on, demanding accountability and recompense for her and other students allegedly put in harm's way.
The press conference announcing the lawsuit is set to garner further attention to the case, potentially affecting future policy and safety measures in university research settings. News Channel 3 is slated to livestream the event, giving the story and Wei's allegations a wider audience.
