Summarised by Centrist

Dr Michelle Dickinson, known as Nanogirl, has shared a heartfelt message expressing gratitude to supporters following the liquidation of Nanogirl Labs, the science education company she co-founded with Joe Davis in 2016. 

Dedicated to promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects to young people, the social enterprise directly engaged over a million children through live events, workshops, and online programmes. 

“For eight remarkable years, Nanogirl Labs has dedicated itself to inspiring curiosity, creativity, and a love for STEM among young people across New Zealand and the world,” she said. 

Nanogirl Labs was placed into liquidation as funding for science education dwindled. BusinessDesk reported that the sector has faced severe challenges, with over 350 science jobs lost since July. 

The conclusion of the $64 million-per-year National Science Challenges programme and the government’s decision to abandon proposed sector reforms further impacted organisations like Nanogirl Labs.

Dr Dickinson, a biomedical and materials engineering expert with a PhD in nanotechnology, created the Nanogirl persona to build confidence in science and promote diverse role models. A member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, she has received numerous accolades, including the Prime Minister’s Science Media Communications Prize.

A full report from the liquidator is expected on December 2.

Read more over at The NZ Herald

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