The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), organized the Open House and Introduction to Research Topics (BIOENTRI) 2026 on Monday to Thursday, February 9–12, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM WIB. The event took place in Lecture Rooms 1, 2, and 3, as well as in the Teaching Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology UGM. It was designed to introduce the range of research topics available within the Faculty and to provide a platform for direct interaction between lecturers and students regarding research opportunities for undergraduate thesis work.
BIOENTRI 2026 became a dynamic and well-attended forum, reflected in the strong enthusiasm of participants. In addition to the primary target group of undergraduate students preparing to determine their thesis topics, the event also drew participation from students across different cohorts, including the class of 2025 and postgraduate students, who attended the sessions, engaged in discussions, and explored potential research collaborations.
The program featured presentation sessions and discussions on research topics, with each lecturer allocated approximately 25 minutes to present and engage in dialogue regarding the research themes offered. The series of activities also included formally scheduled opening and closing sessions, marking the commencement and conclusion of BIOENTRI 2026.
Participants’ enthusiasm was also evident in the booth area organized by the committee. The booths were consistently crowded, reflecting the distinct creativity of each team, from the presentation of posters and research materials to the way scientific ideas were communicated, making discussions feel more engaging and accessible.
In accordance with the event guidelines, each booth was attended by two supervised students appointed by their respective lecturers, serving on the day their lecturer was scheduled to present. BIOENTRI is mandatory for undergraduate students of the 2024 cohort who are preparing to determine their Seminar or Thesis topics. Therefore, the program serves as an important platform for students to map their academic interests, understand the capacity of laboratories and research groups, and identify prospective supervisors.
Through both presentation sessions and booth discussions, students gained deeper insight into available research opportunities, interacted directly with potential academic advisors, and obtained valuable considerations in selecting topics aligned with their interests and future career plans. The event is also expected to foster motivation and inspire students to pursue their research process with greater dedication.
This activity was carried out well due to the collaboration between the student committee and the lecturer committee led by Prof. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., so that the entire BIOENTRI 2026 agenda ran smoothly and optimally.
Through BIOENTRI 2026, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening a research ecosystem and experience-based learning environment that is inclusive and collaborative.
This spirit aligns with the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Quality Education (SDG 4) through the enhancement of research literacy and mentoring practices, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9) through the introduction of strategic research topics, and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) by fostering cross-level academic networks between lecturers and students to promote meaningful scientific contributions for society and the environment.
