Professor Nalini Joshi, Chair of Applied Mathematics at the University of Sydney, will receive the Moyal Medal and deliver the 2026 Moyal Lecture at Macquarie University on Wednesday 30 September.
Titled ‘Mathematics for Quantum Era Security and Trust’, Professor Joshi’s lecture will explore how mathematics underpins the technologies reshaping our world. Governments and companies across the world are increasing their investments in quantum computing and artificial intelligence, her research extends to quantum money, computers and devices that she argues will change the way we live in ways we cannot yet imagine.
In her lecture, Professor Joshi will explore these challenges and explain why their resolution lies in mathematics.
Professor Nalini Joshi AO FAA FRSN is a pioneering mathematician. Picture: Supplied
The annual Moyal Medal recognises significant Australian contributions in mathematics, physics or statistics. The accolade honours the memory of Professor José Enrique Moyal, who was Professor of Mathematics at Macquarie University from 1973 to 1978.
Spending her early years in Burma before her family emigrated to Australia, Professor Joshi is internationally recognised for her breadth and impact on her contributions to the mathematical sciences, together with her excellence and leadership in both research and education. Her innovative mathematical approaches have revealed new insights into how complex systems evolve and behave over time.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Moyal Medal,” Professor Joshi says. “Professor Moyal’s legacy reflects the power of mathematics to connect ideas across disciplines, and it is a privilege to be recognised through an award that celebrates excellence in the mathematical sciences.”
Professor Sam Muller, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Macquarie University, says Professor Joshi’s contributions have had a profound impact on mathematics both in Australia and internationally.
“Professor Joshi is one of Australia’s distinguished mathematicians, whose research has advanced our understanding of complex mathematical systems and their applications to real-world challenges,” Professor Muller says.
“Alongside her outstanding research extending to post-quantum cryptography, she has demonstrated exceptional commitment in mathematical science and tertiary education as an academic, author and researcher, to professional societies, and as a role model and mentor of early career academics. Professor Joshi’s strong advocacy for women and minority groups in mathematics and her commitment to mentoring and inspiring the next generation of researchers make her a highly deserving recipient of the 2026 Moyal Medal.”
Professor Joshi is a former President of the Australian Mathematical Society and served as the first Australian Vice-President of the International Mathematical Union. She is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science and was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2016 for distinguished service to mathematics. In 2025, she became the first mathematician to be named NSW Scientist of the Year, recognising both her groundbreaking research and her contributions to the broader scientific community.