Indian-origin mathematician Professor Nalini Joshi AO has been awarded Australia’s prestigious 2026 Moyal Medal, recognizing her outstanding contributions to mathematics, scientific research and academic leadership. The honor further cements her position as one of Australia’s most influential mathematicians and celebrates a remarkable career spanning groundbreaking research, education and mentorship.
The Moyal Medal is one of Australia’s most respected scientific honors, awarded annually to distinguished researchers who have made exceptional contributions to mathematics, physics or statistics. Named after renowned mathematical physicist Professor José Enrique Moyal, the award acknowledges individuals whose work has had a lasting impact on both academia and society.
Professor Joshi currently serves as the Chair of Applied Mathematics at the University of Sydney and is internationally recognised for her pioneering research in nonlinear differential equations and integrable systems. Her work has significantly advanced mathematical understanding in areas that underpin modern technologies, including fibre-optic communications, climate modelling, quantum computing and artificial intelligence.
As part of the honour, Professor Joshi will deliver the prestigious Moyal Lecture, titled “Mathematics for Quantum-Era Security and Trust”. The lecture is expected to explore how mathematics is helping address some of the world’s most complex technological challenges, particularly in securing emerging quantum technologies and building trustworthy digital systems.
Professor Joshi has consistently broken barriers throughout her distinguished career. She became the first woman appointed Professor of Mathematics at the University of Sydney and has played a leading role in promoting diversity and excellence within the global mathematical community. Her achievements continue to inspire generations of students, researchers and aspiring scientists.
Beyond her academic accomplishments, Professor Joshi has held several influential leadership positions internationally. She made history as the first Australian elected Vice-President of the International Mathematical Union, one of the world’s foremost organisations dedicated to advancing mathematics and fostering international collaboration in scientific research.
Her recent accolades further highlight her extraordinary contributions to science. In 2025, Professor Joshi became the first mathematician to be named New South Wales Scientist of the Year, recognising her groundbreaking research and decades of dedication to advancing mathematical sciences in Australia and internationally.
In 2016, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to mathematics, tertiary education and mentoring young mathematicians. Throughout her career, she has remained a passionate advocate for STEM education, encouraging greater participation by women and multicultural communities in science and research.
The recognition also represents an important moment for Australia’s Indian diaspora, showcasing the remarkable achievements of Indian-origin academics making significant contributions to Australian society. Professor Joshi’s success reflects the growing influence of multicultural talent in shaping Australia’s scientific and technological future.
Professor Nalini Joshi’s 2026 Moyal Medal is not only a celebration of individual excellence but also a testament to the transformative power of mathematics in addressing global challenges. Her inspiring journey continues to demonstrate how scientific curiosity, innovation and perseverance can create a lasting legacy across generations and disciplines.
