The Biology Research Genetics Student Forum (FORMASIGEN) in collaboration with the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology UGM has held the Formasigen 2023 Training of Trainers (TOT) activities on 8 – 10 & 14 – 15 March 2023. TOT is a laboratory training activity related to basic techniques in genetics for Formasigen members. The purpose of implementing this activity is to help all Formasigen members to improve laboratory skills which are lacking due to the disruption of learning and practicum activities during the pandemic in the last few years.
In this training, trainers present material in the form of explaining the basic principles of DNA extraction and selecting techniques based on the type of sample used. In addition, the participants directly carried out each step of DNA extraction, preparation of the PCR mixture, and electrophoresis. There is also the use of MEGA 11 software for DNA Barcoding and phylogenetic tree creation, as well as MVSP (Multivariate Statistical Package) for clustering analysis.
Through the implementation of the Formasigen 2023 Training of Trainers (TOT) activities, it is hoped that all Formasigen member students will obtain basic competency fulfillment as preparation for data collection and analysis in thesis research. Apart from that, it is also hoped that there will be a continuation of the activity as a forum for Formasigen members to better contribute to genetic research activities