Former MSU Grad Student Levels $100M Lawsuit, Alleges Cancer Caused by Herbicide Exposure

In a bombshell lawsuit that sends ripples through the academic and environmental communities, a former Michigan State University graduate student is leveling a staggering $100 million claim against the institution, alleging his devastating battle with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma was a direct consequence of prolonged exposure to toxic herbicides and pesticides on campus.

Peter Paulson, who pursued his graduate studies at MSU from 2004 to 2010, claims that while working in a horticulture teaching greenhouse, he was unknowingly subjected to a cocktail of dangerous chemicals, including the widely debated herbicide Roundup, containing glyphosate.

Paulson received his life-altering cancer diagnosis in 2011, a mere year after concluding his studies at the university, prompting a deep dive into the potential causes of his illness.

The lawsuit, filed against MSU, its Board of Trustees, and several former administrators and faculty members, paints a grim picture of alleged institutional negligence.

Paulson's legal team, led by attorney Frank N. Manley, asserts that the university "recklessly and wantonly exposed him to cancer-causing chemicals." The core of the complaint hinges on the accusation that MSU was fully aware of the inherent dangers associated with these powerful chemicals but egregiously failed in its duty to warn, train, or adequately protect Paulson and potentially other students.

Detailed in the court documents are allegations that MSU's handling of these hazardous substances was alarmingly irresponsible.

The lawsuit claims that chemicals were not properly stored, leading to spills and runoff, and that application methods were haphazard, creating an unsafe environment. Furthermore, Paulson alleges he was often tasked with mixing and applying these potent chemicals without receiving proper safety equipment, comprehensive training, or adequate warnings about the significant health risks involved.

Beyond MSU, the lawsuit extends its reach to major chemical manufacturers, including Monsanto (now owned by Bayer), Corteva Agriscience, Dow AgroSciences, DuPont, and Syngenta.

These companies face product liability claims, with Paulson asserting that their products contributed to his illness. This aspect of the lawsuit aligns with a growing wave of legal challenges against glyphosate producers globally.

The claims against MSU span gross negligence, fraudulent misrepresentation, battery, and failure to provide a safe working and learning environment.

The substantial $100 million sought in damages underscores the severity of Paulson's condition and the profound impact it has had on his life, as well as the perceived culpability of the university.

When approached for comment on the serious allegations, Michigan State University has maintained its standard position of not commenting on pending litigation.

This ongoing silence, however, only amplifies the gravity of the accusations and leaves many questioning the safety protocols within academic research and teaching facilities. This case serves as a critical reminder of the immense responsibility institutions bear in safeguarding the health and well-being of their students and staff, especially when dealing with potentially life-threatening substances.