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Renowned Indian-origin mathematician Professor Nalini Joshi AO has been honoured as the 2025 New South Wales (NSW) Scientist of the Year, becoming the first mathematician to receive the state’s premier science accolade. The recognition was announced at the NSW Premier’s Prizes for Science & Engineering ceremony held at Government House in Sydney.
Professor Joshi, a leading figure in applied mathematics at the University of Sydney, was selected for her transformative work in the field of mathematical sciences.
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Her research has advanced global understanding of complex systems, including how light travels through optical fibres and the emergence of unpredictable deep-sea rogue waves, phenomena with implications for climate science, communications technology and beyond.
The award comes with a trophy and a AUD 60,000 cash prize, cementing Joshi’s place among the most impactful scientists in Australia.
A FIRST FOR MATHEMATICS AND REPRESENTATION
This year’s honour marks a milestone: Joshi is the first mathematician ever to be named NSW Scientist of the Year, underscoring the importance of mathematics in solving real-world scientific and technological challenges.
Her recognition has also drawn global attention, with the Australian High Commission in India highlighting her achievement on social media, celebrating an Indian-origin academic’s contribution to science and international collaboration.
IMPACT BEYOND ACADEMIA
Joshi’s work extends into quantum technology and cybersecurity, a field she highlights as crucial given the advent of powerful quantum computing that could one day challenge existing digital security protocols. Her research helps build foundational mathematical tools to address such future challenges.
The University of Sydney
In addition to her scientific contributions, Joshi is widely recognised for championing gender equity in STEM. She co-founded the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) program, aimed at increasing participation and retention of women in science and mathematics.
VOICES FROM THE CEREMONY
At the awards ceremony, NSW Premier Chris Minns praised Professor Joshi’s work for helping “make sense of nature’s big mysteries” while also inspiring future scientists.
Joshi said she was “deeply honoured and humbled” by the recognition, and urged young people not to be intimidated by maths, describing it as a powerful tool for unlocking universe-scale mysteries.
NSW SCIENCE COMMUNITY HONOURED
Besides Joshi’s distinction, nine other leading researchers and innovators were recognised across categories, including biological sciences, engineering, and early-career research. These awards highlight the strength and breadth of scientific research in New South Wales.
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