Otago University chemistry researcher Carla Meledandri (front) with Crowley research group members (from left) Daniel Ross, James Crowley, Dan Preston, Roan Vasdev, James Findlay and Natalie Lagesse. Photo: Christine O'ConnorWhile scientific funding comes from many places, members of a Dunedin research group admit $30.20 in cat-sitting money from a 7-year-old American girl is unusual. Dr Meledandri said Charlotte came up with the idea on her own after a distant cousin went through chemotherapy for breast cancer. She asked her aunt if any of her colleagues would be appropriate to donate to and Dr Meledandri suggested the Crowley research group. Charlotte is a ''very empathetic and caring girl'', Dr Meledandri says.

Source: Otago Daily Times October 30, 2017 18:45 UTC