Professor Nalini Joshi from the University of Sydney has been named the NSW Scientist of the Year, recognised for mathematical research that has helped explain some of the most puzzling natural and technological behaviours we see in the world.
Her award was the centrepiece of the 2025 Premier’s Prizes for Science and Engineering, held at Government House Sydney, where 10 researchers, innovators and teachers were honoured for contributions spanning everything from medical science to space technology.
Professor Joshi’s work has shaped the way scientists understand complex systems. Her mathematical approaches have helped explain how light moves through optical fibres and how rogue waves form in deep water, rare events that can rise suddenly and powerfully across the ocean. These ideas feed into broader modelling of change over time in weather, climate and tides, and strengthen the tools used to examine how signals travel, interact and break down inside fibre-optic communication systems.
Her prize includes a trophy and 60,000 dollars. Reflecting on the recognition, she said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to be recognised as NSW Scientist of the Year.
“This award is a recognition of the power of the mathematical tools that my collaborators and I have been developing to shine clearer light on the questions of science, particularly the ones that have elusive information hidden within nonlinear models.
“I want to reach out to all the young people who may be daunted by the future and say that it is possible to find answers to questions about the universe by shining the clear light of mathematics on them.
“It is wonderful for me and the amazingly talented people who work with me to be recognised in this way in the company of the brilliant scientists we have in NSW.”
Premier Chris Minns said the decision reflects both the scale of her research and its practical importance. “Professor Joshi’s groundbreaking work helps us make sense of nature’s big mysteries.
“Her research is also working to unlock solutions to complex technological challenges.
“Importantly, in addition to her academic excellence, she is also a role model supporting of our next generation of mathematicians.”
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said the awards highlight the strength of the state’s research community. “Our state boasts a research and innovation sector that is the envy of the world. These awards are the NSW Government’s chance to recognise the best of the best.
“Importantly, the fine work of those who we saluted last night is being translated into real-world solutions in areas as diverse as space, construction and agriculture.
“I thank our winners for their contributions to the health, social, economic and environmental benefit of NSW.”
The evening also honoured nine category winners across fields including engineering, biological sciences, physics and science education, each receiving a trophy and 5,000 dollars.
NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte said the group demonstrated the depth of scientific achievement across the state. “Another year, another extraordinary cohort of research and educational excellence. Last night, we saluted leading work in dementia risk reduction, detection and treatment of stress responses in coral reefs, and technology that has improved the lives of literally millions of cancer patients, to name just three areas.
“We acknowledge the career achievements of senior academics and we welcome the impressive innovations of our best new researchers.
“My congratulations to all honoured last night, and especially to the 2025 Scientist of the Year, Professor Nalini Joshi for her highly impactful work in the field of mathematics.”
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