Yogyakarta, 23 February 2024 – Faculty of Biology UGM held a guest lecture featuring two professors from the Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Australia, they are Professor Wilhelmina Huston and Distinguished Professor Alaina Ammit. The lecture took place in the Auditorium of Tropical Biology, Faculty of Biology UGM and was attended by more than 200 students and lecturers from the Faculty of Biology UGM.
The public lecture was opened by Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.S., Ph.D. and continued with an opening speech by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. as Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM. He stated that the implementation of the guest lecture was part of the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Faculty of Science UTS. He also added that the double degree program collaboration with UTS will be realized in the near future so that students who are interested in pursuing study opportunities in Australia can prepare themselves.
Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, who acted as guest lecture moderator, invited Prof. Wilia and Prof. Alaina to present their research.
Prof. Alaina gave a lecture entitled “Combating inflammation in chronic lung disease”. She introduced the Woolcock Emphysema Center where she works together with other researchers in overcoming Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) through early diagnosis, and better treatment.
Prof. Wilia then explained her research with the title “The reproductive tract microbiome and chlamydial disease”. She began her lecture with an explanation of Chlamydia trachomatis and its transmission. She also explained the role of each microbiome in the female organs in protecting the organs from infections including Chlamydia bacteria, as well as his research studying each microbiome using next generation sequencing.
The lecture closed with a question and answer session guided by Dr, Eko. Prof. Alaina and Prof. Willa showed the important role of a biologist in the medical field so that they can expand the potential output of biological research in improving the quality of health.
This public lecture was part of a collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney. This collaboration also shows the Faculty of Biology’s commitment to expanding connections and collaboration with various partners to improve the quality of education, in line with its support for the Sustainable Development Goals for improving education and expanding cooperation (SDG 4 and 17), and of course improving community health and welfare better through renewable research (SDG 3).
Yogyakarta, 22-23 February 2024 – The Faculty of Biology in collaboration with the Faculty of Pharmacy and the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Public Health, Universitas Gadjah Mada received a visit from Prof. Dr. Herman Spaink from Leiden University of the Netherlands and as Adjunct Professor at the Faculty of Biology UGM and Dr. Christopher James Hall from Auckland University New Zealand. The visit was a follow-up to the collaboration between the Joint Research Center and Expertise in developing zebrafish as an animal research model for collaboration between Leiden University and three faculties at UGM. Prof. Herman and Dr. Chris visited the zebrafish research station at the Integrated Research Center Laboratory (LPPT) Universitas Gadjah Mada, before leaving to Bali to take part in the 2024 Asian Conference on Fish Models for Disease.
The development of zebrafish as a research animal model has become one of the research focuses at Universitas Gadjah Mada in recent years. Its application as a model animal for the study of diseases including diabetes, tuberculosis, and so on is expected to accelerate research in Indonesia. The Faculty of Biology played a role in this collaboration in collaboration with other researchers at Universitas Gadjah Mada and partners from Leiden University.
Visit of Prof. Herman and Dr. Chris will be followed by a workshop on gene editing of zebrafish embryos and sequencing which will take place in early March. It is hoped that this activity can accelerate the skills of UGM researchers, especially in animal model research, especially zebra fish for the study of this disease.
Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Faculty of Biology UGM said that the agenda was a follow-up to the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Faculty of Science Leiden University and was part of the activities of Prof. Herman Spaink as Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Biology, UGM. Furthermore, this collaboration also shows the Faculty of Biology’s commitment to expanding connections and collaboration with various partners to improve the quality of education, in line with its support for the Sustainable Development Goals for improving education and expanding cooperation (SDG 4 and 17), and of course improving health and better social welfare through renewable research (SDG 3).
Yogyakarta, 22 February 2024 – Faculty of Biology UGM received a visit from two professors from the Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Australia; Professor Wilhelmina Huston and Distinguished Professor Alaina Ammit. The visit was received in the KPTU Meeting Room, Faculty of Biology UGM and was also attended by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. as Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Wiratni, S.T., M.T., Ph.D. as Secretary of the Directorate of Global Partnerships and Relations of UGM, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Sukirno, M.Sc., Ph.D. as Head of the Undergraduate Study Program, Dr.rer.nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho as Head of the Masters Study Program, and Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.S., Ph.D. as Secretary of the Office of International Affairs, Faculty of Biology, UGM.
Prof. Budi warmly welcomed the presence of the two professors from UTS Australia. He said the visit was a continuation of the initiation of collaboration between the Faculty of Biology and the Faculty of Science UTS, last October 2023. Mrs. Wiratni further added that UGM had also collaborated with UTS so that the discussion with UTS was a good follow-up to the extension of UTS’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UGM. Mrs. Wiratni also mentioned the potential for research and academic collaboration through KONEKSI (Knowledge Partnership Platform Australia-Indonesia) and LPDP scholarships.
Dr. Eko as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs of the Faculty of Biology then gave an explanation regarding the profile of the Faculty of Biology and potential collaboration that could be implemented with the Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney. The explanation regarding the curriculum and undergraduate and master’s study programs was then also presented by the Head of the Undergraduate Study Program and the Head of the Master’s Study Program, Faculty of Biology, UGM.
Prof. Willia and Prof. Alaina expressed their enthusiasm for the potential for collaboration, especially in the double degree program in the field of biomedical science which can be supported by LPDP scholarships and research collaboration through KONEKSI. Prof. Alaina also conveyed UTS’s advantages in the field of environmental science as well as disease understanding and diagnosis in the biomedical field. Apart from that, the agreed collaboration is regarding the International Summer Course through the New Colombo Plan Program.
The visit continued with a tour of various buildings and facilities at the Faculty of Biology UGM and continued with a visit to the Integrated Research Center Laboratory (LPPT) Gadjah Mada University guided by Prof Yusril Yusuf. Prof Wilia and Prof Alaina also visited the Butterfly Park belonging to the Faculty of Biology which is located in the Wisdom Park area of Universitas Gadjah Mada.
It is hoped that the discussion and visit will be a good follow-up step in the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney. This collaboration also shows the Faculty of Biology’s commitment to expanding connections and collaboration with various partners to improve the quality of education, in line with its support for the Sustainable Development Goals for improving education and expanding cooperation (SDG 4 and 17).
On Sunday, February 18, 2024, the Inauguration of the Daily Management and Syuro Council (Supervisory Board) of the Congregation of Biology Muslim Student, Universitas Gadjah Mada (JMMB UGM), was held at the Al-Hayat Mosque, Faculty of Biology, UGM. The event was attended by Muhammad Ihsanuddin Al Abror, representing Dr. rer. nat. Abdul Rachman Siregar S.Si., M.Biotech, as the Trustee of JMMB UGM, representatives of the Study Clubs of the Faculty of Biology UGM, as well as representatives of the Campus and Faculty Da’wah Management at Universitas Gadjah Mada.
The activity was guided by the MC, namely Denianto Agung Wicaksono as the Staff for the Public relation and Media at JMMB UGM.The event began with a Working Meeting, where the Daily Management presented their annual work program followed by discussions as a forum for aspirations for all members of JMMB UGM 1445 H. The event continued with the Grand Launching of the cabinet, opened by the MC and followed by the recitation of Holy Quran by Rafli Nur Muhammad Fahrezi. Furthermore, reading of the Pledge of the Inauguration of the Daily Management and the Syuro Council of JMMB UGM, led by Muhammad Ihsanuddin Al Abror. After that was remarks from Muhammad Luthfi, the general chairman of JMMB UGM Period 1445-1446 H, continued with the Grand Launching of the “Ar-Rabbii’ud Daafi” Cabinet as the new JMMB UGM cabinet for the 1445-1446 H period.
The name “Ar-Rabbii’ud Daafi” means “Warm Spring”, where “Spring” symbolizes renewal and new spirit after the emergence of light, restoring JMMB as the center of Da’wah in the Faculty of Biology, and “Warm” symbolizes this resurgence accompanied by efforts to enhance brotherhood and religious guidance, making JMMB a comfortable and warm religious community and family. Now is the time for the dawn of revival with the warmth that is dreamed of as in the past. The warmth of the past means realizing Islamic brotherhood and providing a third home for all Muslim academics of the Faculty of Biology, UGM. This is in line with our Vision, which is to restore the function of JMMB as a center for the development of Islamic values for students of the Faculty of Biology, UGM (maintaining faith, piety, and Islamic brotherhood) and as an agent of Da’wah. The Grand Launching and Working Meeting were concluded with a forum for impressions and messages, as well as documentation.
Yogyakarta, 21 February 2024 – Faculty of Biology UGM received a visit from Dr. Shukum Ruangchai as Assistant Dean for International Relations and Communication of Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University (KKU), Thailand. Located in the KPTU Faculty of Biology Meeting Room, Dr. Shukum was warmly welcomed by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Faculty of Biology UGM. Visit of Dr. Shukum is aims to initiating collaboration between Khon Kaen University and Universitas Gadjah Mada, especially the Faculty of Biology.
Dr. Eko as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs of the Faculty of Biology then gave an explanation regarding the profile of the Faculty of Biology and the potential for collaboration that could be implemented with the Faculty of Science KKU. He also mentioned the ongoing collaboration with other universities in Thailand, including Kasetsart University and Prince Sonkla University, through participation in the 2023 International Summer Course.
Dr. Shukum also introduced KKU, especially the Faculty of Science, which has bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs in biology, both regular and international classes. He also mentioned the lack of interest among Thai students in continuing their education to master’s and doctoral levels. It is felt that the potential for double degree collaboration for bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs that can be initiated with the Faculty of Biology UGM can attract the interest of students in Thailand and UGM students in Indonesia to continue their education. Dr. Shukum is also enthusiastic about being able to invite lecturers and students to participate in the International Summer Course at the Faculty of Biology.
It is hoped that the discussion and visit will be a good follow-up step in the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Faculty of Science Khon Kaen University Thailand. This collaboration also shows the Faculty of Biology’s commitment to expanding connections and collaboration with various partners to improve the quality of education, in line with its support for the Sustainable Development Goals for improving education and expanding cooperation (SDG 4 and 17).
After a successful research collaboration regarding the biodiversity and conservation status of aquatic biota, especially fish and crustaceans, in Lake Siran in East Kalimantan, between the Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN) and the lecturers of Animal Systematic Laboratory of Faculty of Biology UGM. This time, YKAN conducted another research on aquatic biota, especially fish and crustaceans, in Berau, East Kalimantan. This research again involved lecturers, students, and alumni from the Faculty of Biology UGM. The lecturers involved from the Animal Systematics Laboratory were Donan Satria Yudha, S.Si., M.Sc., and Dr. Rury Eprilurahman, S.Si., M.Sc. Meanwhile, the students involved were Muhamad Afnisa’a Rozaqi (undergraduate student) and Maula Haqul Dafa, S.Pd. (graduate student) as well as Hastin Ambar Asti, S.Si., M.Sc. (alumni of the Faculty of Biology UGM) and assisted by Mr. Susilo Irwanjasmoro from Wagleri Foundation. YKAN staff who participated in field sampling was Eka Cahyaningrum, S.Si. as Biodiversity and High Conservation Value Specialist and also alumni of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Mr. Purnomo and Mr. Lebin Yen.
This activity was carried out because of the landscape of the Kelay River being part of the Wehea-Kelay Essential Ecosystem Area, which covers an area of 532,000 hectares. The Wehea-Kelay landscape was one of the significant habitats for flora and fauna in Kalimantan. This area covers 2% of the forest area in Kalimantan, and served as home to at least 35% of Kalimantan’s mammals (including orangutans), 41% of birds, 20% of reptiles, and 46% of amphibians. In order to support the formation of a water conservation action plan for the waters of the Kelay River, YKAN needs to conduct a survey of the biodiversity of aquatic biota and understand the role of freshwater biota in the economic needs of the community.
The research was conducted for 7 days in the landscape of the Kelay River. The sampling area was divided into 3 main parts: the Main Kelay River, the Duhung River, and several tributaries flowing into the Kelay River. Active sampling of freshwater biota was conducted from morning until evening, while passive sampling used traps. The traps were set up in the morning and the catches were observed the following day. The data obtained consisted of 37 species of fish, 2 species of shrimp, and 3 species of crabs. The results of this activity still require further analysis to determine the biodiversity of freshwater biota and understand the commercially important fish and crustacean species and the catch quantities for their economic value.
Yogyakarta, Indonesia – February 19, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada is participating in the Sakura Science Program hosted by Yamagata University’s Faculty of Sciences. Under the esteemed leadership of Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., Vice Dean of Academic Affairs and Student Affairs, and Dr. Nur Indah Septriani, M.Sc., Coordinator of the International Undergraduate Program (IUP), Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada.
The delegation is poised to engage in a transformative experience focused on “Understanding Asian Biodiversity by Advanced Molecular Techniques.” Scheduled from February 16 to February 24, 2024, this program represents a collaborative effort between Universitas Gadjah Mada and Yamagata University, with Professor Jun Yokoyama, Ph.D., serving as the Person in Charge (PIC).
The delegation comprises 14 students, including 8 males and 6 females, who have eagerly embraced the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of Asian biodiversity and cutting-edge molecular techniques.
The program itinerary is as follows:
- Day 1 (February 16): Snow Sightseeing – A captivating journey through the snow-covered landscapes of Yamagata, fostering camaraderie and appreciation for nature’s beauty.
- Day 2 (February 17): Expert Lectures:
- Professor Yutaka Miyazawa: Leading authority in Plant Physiology, providing valuable insights into the physiological processes governing plant life.
- Professor Naoyuki Fujiyama: Esteemed expert in Entomology, unraveling the mysteries of insect diversity and ecology.
- Professor Jun Yokoyama: Prominent scholar in Plant Systematics, elucidating the classification and evolutionary relationships of plant species in Asia.
- Day 3 (February 18): Laboratory Works – Hands-on sessions focusing on DNA Isolation and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), essential techniques for molecular biology research.
- Days 4-5 (February 19-20): Advanced Laboratory Work – Participants will engage in practical exercises including electrophoresis, sequencing, and constructing phylogenetic trees, enhancing their proficiency in genetic analysis.
- Day 6 (February 21): Group Presentations – Delegates will collaborate to present their findings and insights gleaned from the laboratory sessions, fostering academic discourse and knowledge exchange.
- Day 7 (February 22): Sightseeing and Museum Visit – A day dedicated to exploring the cultural heritage and historical treasures of Yamagata, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
Dr. Bambang Retnoaji expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating, “This collaboration represents a significant opportunity for our students to broaden their horizons, deepen their understanding of biodiversity, and strengthen international ties in scientific research and education.” This participation underscores Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada’s commitment to fostering academic excellence, global engagement, and scientific advancement in the field of biology. In addition, this collaboration is in line with the Faculty of Biology’s commitment to increasing cooperation for international recognition in accordance with its support for the Sustainable Development Goals, SDG 17 as well as improving the quality of inclusive and high-quality education (SDG 4) and competing with the best institutions in the world.
On Friday, February 16, 2024, the Department of Marine Affairs and Fisheries of the Special Region of Yogyakarta held the Workshop on Conservation Area Utilization at the Srigading Village Hall, Sanden, Bantul. Abdul Razaq Chasani, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D., as the Head of the Tropical Biology Department, attended the event representing the Dean of the Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada.
The workshop’s topic regarding the utilization of conservation areas significantly reflects the commitment of the Faculty of Biology UGM to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) concerning the preservation of underwater life, including diverse marine and aquatic ecosystems (SDGs 14). Although not directly related, this topic also positively impacts the goals of sustainable cities and communities (SDGs 11).
The workshop commenced with an address by the Head of the Department of Marine Affairs and Fisheries of DIY, represented by the Coastal Development Section Head of DKP DIY, Veronica Vony R., A.pi., MMA. She conveyed that in Bantul Regency itself, there were turtle conservation areas. Four out of the total seven species of turtles in the world were found in Bantul, namely the Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas), Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate), and Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea). She also explained that the activities carried out in the conservation areas include turtle conservation, capture fisheries, ecotourism, and research or internships by students. Additionally, activities such as coastal turtle festivals and the construction of turtle monument markers at Pelangi Beach have also been implemented. These activities will also be carried out on several other beaches in Bantul.
The event then proceeded with presentations by the Director of Conservation and Marine Biodiversity of the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Muh. Firdaus Agung Kunto Kurniawan, S.T., M.Sc., Ph.D., regarding Regulations on Utilization Permits in Conservation Areas in accordance with Ministerial Regulation No. 47 of 2016 concerning the Utilization of Conservation Areas for Fisheries. In his presentation, he highlighted the importance of conservation with protection and preservation approaches through control via permits. Mr. Firdaus also conveyed about activities in conservation areas, such as tourism, education, and research, which need to be controlled through licensing mechanisms in accordance with the Indonesian Standard Classification of Fields of Activity (KBLI).
The next material was presented by the Head of the Research Station for Marine and Fisheries Resources in Cilacap, Mr. Joko Pramono, regarding Integrated Surveillance of Conservation Areas. He conveyed that the surveillance of conservation areas has been implemented, as seen from the regulation of the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries No. 17 of 2022 concerning Conservation Areas in the Waters of the South Coast of Bantul, DIY Yogyakarta.
Yogyakarta, February 15, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), invited the Directorate of Education and Learning (DPP) UGM Team to conduct a socialization event about final assignment menus in Simaster, held in the Tropical Biology Auditorium from 08.00 to 10.00 WIB. This event was specifically organized for all lecturers and administrative staff who serve as final assignment enumerators in the academic unit of the Faculty of Biology UGM.
The event commenced with a speech from the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. He emphasized the importance of systems in organizing the education and learning process. He stressed that through the implementation of systems and technology, data integration between student academic activities and lecturers can be done more efficiently. His hope was that this socialization can provide a deeper understanding to all parties involved, so that the supervision and teaching process can proceed smoothly.
The first speaker was Dr. Sigit Priyanta, S.Si., M.Kom, Secretary of the Directorate of Education and Learning, provided a detailed presentation on the final assignment menu in Simaster and the administrative roles of the academic department, lecturers, and students in filling out the final assignment menu. The second speaker, Rochman Diansyah, S.T. (Coordinator of the Education and Learning Information System Division of the Directorate of Education and Learning), explained the connection between the final assignment menu as a record of the supervision to students and the SISTER system for lecturers.
With this socialization, it is hoped that all parties involved could gain a deeper understanding and effectively implement the final assignment menu, thereby enabling a more efficient and effective administration and learning processes for final assignments at the Faculty of Biology UGM.
On Thursday, February 15th, 2024, children from the Deresan State Elementary School (SDN) had the special opportunity to explore the world of science through an inspiring visit to the Animal Structure and Development laboratory Faculty of Biology UGM. This visit aims to provide a deeper understanding of the science concepts they learn in class and inspire their interest in science. A total of 58 grade IV children from SDN Deresan accompanied by 2 homeroom teachers and 4 accompanying teachers were received at the Faculty of Biology UGM by the Faculty Reception Team and welcomed by the Head of the SPH Lab, Dr. Ardaning Nuruliani, M. Kes. These children were then divided into 2 groups and invited to the SPH lab, Animal Histology & Embryology Section and Animal Anatomy Section. All SPH Lab lecturers, along with Master and Bachelor study program students who are conducting research at the SPH Lab, also welcomed the students.
In the SPH Lab, Animal Histology & Embryology Section, students are introduced to microscopes and how to use them. Apart from that, they observed the Diffusion process, a colorful microscopic preparation. Meanwhile, in the SPH Lab, Animal Anatomy Section, students were invited to observe skeletal preparations, internal organs, and several anatomical preparations. Children show extraordinary enthusiasm and deep curiosity while learning in the laboratory. The visit also included a question-and-answer session, where the children were given the opportunity to ask questions about science topics of interest to them to the Master and Bachelor students doing research in the SPH lab. Intelligent and creative questions poured in, reflecting the growing interest in science among the younger generation.
According to Mr. Paino, A. Ma (Class IVA Homeroom Teacher) and Mr. Danang Nor Wicaksana, S.Pd. (Class IVB Homeroom Teacher), this visit is part of the SDN Deresan efforts to provide diverse and in-depth learning experiences for their students. The students ended their visit with bright smiles on their faces and a deep feeling of inspiration. “I want to be a scientist someday!”; “I want to study here” and “I want to study at UGM,” chattered the fourth-grade students with sparkling eyes. Such hopes may seem far away, but with visits like this, the possibility feels closer.
This activity for admitting elementary school students to explore our laboratory is part of the Faculty of Biology’s commitment to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) goal no. 4 Quality Education, goal no. 5 Gender equality, and goal no. 17 concerning Cooperation.