Indian-Australian researcher Dr Ekta Sharma has received the National Intelligence Community Postdoctoral Award and Medal for Research Excellence 2025, recognising outstanding early-career research addressing strategic priorities for the Australian Government.
The award was presented by Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles at a ceremony attended by senior officials, including Ms Nina Davidson, Deputy Director-General (Intelligence) at the Office of National Intelligence.
Awarded annually, the highly competitive honour recognises one early-career researcher whose work demonstrates exceptional depth, rigour and impact in solving national strategic challenges.
Dr Sharma’s research focuses on artificial intelligence, contributing to unclassified projects aligned with the priorities of Australia’s National Intelligence Community.
In accepting the award, Dr Sharma said the recognition was not only a reflection of her research outcomes, but also a dedication to women returning to the workforce after significant career breaks. She highlighted the importance of maintaining confidence and resilience in the face of professional and personal challenges.
The National Intelligence Community Postdoctoral Program supports Australian citizens working across science, social science and technology, encouraging research that advances emerging fields of national importance.
Dr Sharma thanked colleagues and mentors for their support throughout 2025 and extended festive wishes to the community, saying she looked forward to a productive and positive 2026.
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