In the world of modern science communication, few names resonate as powerfully as Dr. Michelle Dickinson. Known to thousands of children and adults alike as "Nanogirl," Dickinson has spent over a decade breaking down the barriers between complex laboratory research and public understanding. Based in New Zealand, her journey from a curious child coder to a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) is a masterclass in how passion, combined with a creative alter ego, can spark a global interest in STEM.
Early Foundations and Academic Excellence
The multidisciplinary nature of Dr. Dickinson’s work likely stems from her diverse upbringing across Hong Kong, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Born to a Hong Kong Chinese mother and an English Maltese father, Michelle was a digital native before the term was popular, displaying advanced computer coding skills by the age of eight.
Her academic trajectory was equally impressive. She pursued higher education with a focus on how things are built at the molecular level, completing a Masters’ in Engineering at the University of Manchester. She later moved to the United States to earn a PhD in Biomedical Materials Engineering from Rutgers University. This deep technical background provided the foundation for her later work as a senior lecturer at the University of Auckland, where she specialized in chemical and material engineering.
The Birth of "Nanogirl"
Despite her high level expertise, Dickinson initially struggled with the pressures of public speaking. On the advice of a speaking coach, she developed the persona of Nanogirl. What started as a psychological tool to overcome stage fright quickly evolved into a massive brand. Nanogirl became the face of accessible science, featuring a science blog, a popular YouTube channel, and eventually leading to high profile appearances at TED conferences and on national television.
In 2016, she brought science to the stage with her theatrical show, "Little Bang, Big Bang." The tour proved that science didn't just belong in textbooks; it could be explosive, entertaining, and educational. This unique approach earned her the Prime Minister’s Science Communication Award and cemented her status as a national treasure in New Zealand’s scientific community.
Nanogirl Labs and Social Impact
Believing that science should be hands on, Michelle Dickinson co-founded Nanogirl Labs in 2016 alongside her husband, Joe Davis. The laboratory functioned as a social enterprise, designing science education programs and products aimed at making STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fun and approachable.
The lab’s mission was deeply rooted in equity. Before Nanogirl Labs, Dickinson co-founded the charity OMGTech, which provided children from all socioeconomic backgrounds access to high tech tools like 3D printing, robotics, and coding. This commitment to low decile schools ensured that the next generation of innovators wouldn't be limited by their zip code.
While Nanogirl Labs faced significant financial hurdles in 2024 due to a "perfect storm" of government funding cuts and a cost of living crisis, the impact of its work remains. The thousands of "Kitchen Science" kits and educational videos produced continue to serve as a resource for educators worldwide.
A Multi Talented Author and Innovator
Dr. Dickinson’s influence extends well beyond the laboratory and the stage. She is an accomplished author who understands how to bridge the gap between innovation and everyday life. In 2017, she published No.8 Re-Charged, a tribute to New Zealand’s culture of "No.8 wire" ingenuity focusing on world changing inventions born in her home country.
Perhaps her most famous literary contribution is The Kitchen Science Cookbook. This book transformed homes into laboratories, using basic kitchen ingredients to teach fundamental scientific principles. Her ability to translate "hard science" into "household fun" is why she was called upon during the COVID-19 pandemic to join Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s panel, helping the public navigate complex health data with clarity and calm.
Awards, Recognition, and Legacy
The accolades bestowed upon Dr. Dickinson are a testament to her tireless work. In 2015, she was awarded the Sir Peter Blake Leadership Award and was named a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit. She has also received the Royal Society of New Zealand’s Callaghan Medal and was named the New Zealand Women of Influence for Innovation and Science.
Dr. Michelle Dickinson’s story is not just about nanotechnology; it is about the power of communication. By donning the mantle of Nanogirl, she proved that a scientist doesn't have to stay behind a microscope to change the world. Through her books, her charity work, and her media presence, she has inspired a generation of young girls and boys to look at the world and ask, "How does that work?"
As we look toward a future driven by technology, the work of educators like Dr. Dickinson remains vital. She has successfully humanized science, making it a "superpower" that is accessible to everyone.
