11 April 2025
Dr Dianne McCarthy CNZM CRSNZ died peacefully on 5 April 2025 in Blenheim, her home of many years.
A member of the Malaghan Institute Trust Board from 2015-2024, she was recognised as Distinguished Trustee in 2024.
“Di has been a tireless and effective advocate for the role of science and scientists to benefit New Zealand and safeguard us against future economic and health challenges,” says Professor Graham Le Gros, Deputy Chair and former director of the institute.
“She had amazing connections across the science sector and was very astute in finding ways to foster partnerships and collaborations. This really set her apart in what can be a competitive and siloed environment – she somehow rose above all that.”
With an academic background in experimental psychology and behavioural neuroscience, Di went on to become a professor at the University of Auckland, where she also served in many leadership roles, including Pro Vice-Chancellor. Later she was-Pro Chancellor at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington. She was Chief Executive of the Royal Society of New Zealand from 2007–2014, and worked across a range of senior management and governance roles in the tertiary education, science and health sectors.
Professor Franca Ronchese says Di was passionate about nurturing women in science and leadership, as much as engaging and supporting those who are just starting out in their careers. She helped establish the successful New Zealand Women in Leadership programme with Te Pōkai Tara Universities New Zealand.
“She kept to that vision and was a passionate and generous advocate for women at the Malaghan and in academia, always ensuring that the achievements of women were acknowledged and given appropriate recognition. She was always 100% supportive.”
Dr Michelle Linterman, who recently returned to New Zealand to join the institute’s science leadership team, says Di came to Cambridge to “check her out” – as a sort of quality control mechanism from Graham. “She was just so supportive of me coming back, and probably more instrumental in getting me here than I realise. Her support of Kiwi women in science has broken barriers in Aotearoa, and has long-lasting meaningful impact.”
In 2008, Di was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to education, and in 2016, a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to science, business, and women. She won the Wellington Businesswoman of the Year Award in 2010.
“Di leaves an outstanding legacy of scientists, administrators and individuals from throughout our communities who have been motivated and encouraged by her passion, sincerity and incredible work rate, all matched by a ready wit and forever sparkling, twinkling smile.
“We will all miss her and commit to carrying on the work that she was so dedicated towards in helping others and making our place a better world.”