The Merck Young Scientist Award (MYSA) 2023 has announced the top 12 semifinalists on October 25, 2023. The MYSA program aims to engage young scientists in discussions, idea sharing, scientific research development, and collaboration to create new breakthroughs, while also recognizing the dedication of scientists in developing sustainable solutions to meet the healthcare needs of Indonesia’s society. Additionally, MYSA seeks to inspire and encourage young scientists to innovate in life sciences and provide solutions to various health challenges. This program, in its fifth year running since 2018, collaborates with the Research Organization for Life Sciences and the Environment, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and Universitas Gadjah Mada, who act as the judging panel to provide optimal assessments of the participants.

The 12 semifinalists of the Merck Young Scientist Award (MYSA) 2023 come from various institutions including Institut Teknologi Sumatera, Sumbawa University of Technology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia International Institute for Life Sciences, Universitas Indonesia, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), IMERI FKUI, and PT Bio Farma. Participants were selected by a judging panel led by Prof. Dr. apt. Edy Meiyanto M.Si from the Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, including Iman Hidayat., Ph.D, Prof. Dr. Nurul Taufiqu Rochman., M.Eng., Ph.D from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Ilma Equilibrina., Ph.D from Merck, and Dr. Riza Arief Putranto., D.E.A from The Indonesian Society for Bioinformatics & Biodiversity.

Through rigorous evaluation, Sigit Dwi Maryanto., S.Si., M.Sc from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada emerged as one of the top 12 semifinalists. His research focuses on the efficiency of nutrient absorption in palm oil. In general, Sigit Dwi Maryanto., S.Si., M.Sc explained that his research will yield short-term downstream products related to molecular markers for nutrient efficiency in palm oil, while the long-term target is nutrient-efficient palm oil progenies. This research significantly contributes to palm oil production.

The culminating event will take place on November 23, 2023, in Jakarta. During this final event, the 12 finalists will present their research, and the winners will be announced. Therefore, Sigit Dwi Maryanto., S.Si., M.Sc hopes to deliver the best performance during the presentation and bring home victory, thereby enhancing the reputation of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada. (Vita Meylani, PhD Program Student, First Semester 2023, Faculty of Biology).

Biology student at Faculty Biology UGM made another achievement by winning gold medal for Research Project for College Student and Runner Up-1 for Grand Award Research Project for College Student in 2nd International Conference of Biology for Students (ICOBIOS) x Open Bioproject Competition (OBC) 2023 at Brawijaya University on 12-14 November 2023. This achievement was achieved by a team from Laboratory of Genetics and Breeding, comprised of Azizah Tyas Nugrahanty (Biologi 2020), Bagas Alfian Dwiaryanda (Biologi 2020), dan Lucia Arum Sekar Meysari (Biologi 2020) under guidance Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D in collaboration with Raden Afif Pranaya Jati, S.P., M.Sc from Indonesia Bioinformatic Institute (INBIO-Indonesia).

The 2nd International Conference of Biology for Students (ICOBIOS) x Open Bioproject Competition (OBC) 2023 has the theme ”Inovative Approach in Investigating Biological Problem through Multidisciplinary Research and Startup” aimed to accelerate collaboration and enhance understanding of various biological aspect for young researchers. The competition was held from July to November 2023 and had several stages, including abstract submission, abstract announcement, proposal submission, presentation and ceremonial event.

The Poly-hydroxy butyrate (PHB) team is examining the issue of biodegradable plastic due to the fact that the development of plastic nowadays is inseparable from modern human life and will grow continuously every year. In addition, various efforts have been undertaken and are being made, one of which is to find alternatives for conventional plastics that are more environmentally friendly and sustainable. Based on these challenges, Azizah, Bagas, and Lucia focus on developing organisms as effective and efficient producers of PHB by utilizing genetic transformation technology. Until now, the PHB team has successfully combined synthetic genes constructed into plasmids into bacterial cells as candidates for naturally producing PHB microbes. This solution is expected to become an alternative to conventional plastics. Furthermore, the team and supervisors also hope that this research will evolve continuously every year to create a comfortable environment without conventional plastics. [Authors: Azizah Tyas Nugrahanty, Bagas Alfian Dwiaryanda, and Lucia Arum Sekar Meysari]

The Museum of Biology is a museum managed by the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, since 1956. Originating from the ideas of Prof. drg. RG Indrayana and Prof. Ir. Moeso Soeryowinoto, the establishment of this museum began with the merging of the Zoologicum Museum managed by Prof. drg. RG Indrayana and the herbarium collection managed by Prof. Ir. Moeso Soeryowinoto. In 1969, under the initiative of the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Ir. Suryo Adisewoyo, and coinciding with the Dies Natalis of the Faculty of Biology UGM, the Biology Museum was inaugurated at Jl. Sultan Agung No.22, Mergangsan Subdistrict, Yogyakarta.

The museum, with a concept of biological education, research, and community service, houses collections such as skeletons, animal fossils, plant specimens, wet herbarium, and dry herbarium. In the dry herbarium storage, there are more than 3000 plant specimens, both indigenous and foreign. According to Fahmi, one of the Museum of Biology’s curators, a comprehensive specimen data collection is currently underway for digitalization purposes. “Every day, students come for data collection purposes and assist in the maintenance of dry specimens by replacing paper in the aging herbarium,” said Fahmi. He also mentioned a special box containing voucher specimens from the USA and Russia. Additionally, there are about 1000 wet herbarium specimens in the form of preserved fruits and flowers. In addition to plant specimens, there are also fossils and preserved animals, each with information on display.

The Museum of Biology is open to students and the general public every day during museum hours. Monday to Thursday, it is open from 08:00 AM to 04:00 PM WIB, Friday from 08:00 AM to 03:00 PM WIB, and Saturday-Sunday from 08:00 AM to 02:00 PM WIB. In addition to being used as an educational attraction, this place is also utilized for the research of several students and professors. The Appreciation Award for the Sustainability and Maintenance of Cultural Heritage Buildings and Cultural Heritage in 2023 from the Yogyakarta City Culture Office is proof that the management of this museum is well-regarded. The well-maintained museum supports educational facilities for various groups.”

The Closing Ceremony and the Culminating Night of BIOSPHERE#6, themed “The Hustle Story from Empire of Underland,” successfully took place on November 12, 2023 from 3:00 PM to 8:45 PM WIB at the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada and was attended by 135 spectators. The event commenced with an opening by the MCs, Fauzi (2020) and Rima Arvisya (2022), followed by a performance of the Laskar Gebrar Dance by postgraduate students of the Faculty of Biology, UGM. This was followed by an address from Daffa Patria Putra Dewanto, the Chairperson of BIOSPHERE#6.

In addition to the postgraduate student performances, there were other performances by undergraduate students from the Faculty of Biology, including Paradisea with a modern dance, Biotimbre, and Syrinx, delivering a captivating musical performance. Subsequently, there was a announcement and distribution of prizes for the winners of the internal competition of BIOSPHERE#6. The event concluded with a closing statement from Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc, the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, and was enlivened by Olski as the guest star.

The Culminating Night of BIOSPHERE#6 was vibrant, fueled by the enthusiasm of the students from the Faculty of Biology, UGM. The event proceeded in a conducive, safe, and orderly manner until its conclusion. The successful execution of the Culminating Night marked the official closure of the entire BIOSPHERE#6 series. Therefore, it is hoped that all committee members and spectators can appreciate themselves after this long journey and continue to explore and develop their own potentials. [Author: BIOSPHERE Committee]

The Biochemistry Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada conducted the internationalization of the technical biochemistry course by inviting two foreign lecturers to deliver lectures in a hybrid format. The hybrid lectures were conducted four times, featuring Dr. Lin Qingsong from the Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, and Dr. Mohd Zuwairi Bin Saiman from the Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia.

Dr. Lin Qingsong delivered lectures on November 6 and 13 titled “Protein Isolation and Detection.” The first lecture covered protein isolation and purification techniques using chromatographic methods, while the second lecture focused on methods for protein analysis such as affinity chromatography, SDS Page, Western blot, and Elisa. Additionally, Dr. Mohd Zuwairi Bin Saiman delivered a lecture on November 20 titled “What is Chromatography and How Does It Work?” and on November 27 with the topic “What is Metabolomics All About?”.

The technical biochemistry course is a compulsory course for third-semester students, divided into four parallel classes totaling 250 students. The hybrid lectures were conducted where one class attended in person in room 2, while other classes followed the lectures online. After attending the lectures, students were required to create resumes. Students showed great enthusiasm for these lectures and actively engaged with the foreign lecturers by asking questions both directly and through the chat feature. This hybrid class is expected to enhance students’ competencies and broaden their understanding of the academic environment abroad. Additionally, it is hoped that this initiative won’t just stop here but will continue through research and academic collaborations with foreign institutions.

Biology student at Faculty Biology UGM made another achievement by winning silver medal for research idea proposal in 2nd International Conference of Biology for Students (ICOBIOS) x Open Bioproject Competition (OBC) 2023 at Brawijaya University on 12-14 November 2023. This achievement was achieved by Templus team, comprised of Muhammad Helmi Fauzan (Biologi 2020), Nisa Abidah (Biologi 2021), and Anandita Amalia (Biologi 2021) under guidance Dr. Miftahul Ilmi, S.Si., M.Si. in collaboration with Aditya Aryandi an alumnus from Faculty Biology in 2010.

The 2nd International Conference of Biology for Students (ICOBIOS) x Open Bioproject Competition (OBC) 2023 has the theme ”Inovative Approach in Investigating Biological Problem through Multidisciplinary Research and Startup” aimed to accelerate collaboration and enhance understanding of various biological aspect for young researchers. The competition was held from July to November 2023 and had several stages, including abstract submission, abstract announcement, proposal submission, presentation and ceremonial event.

Team Templus addressed the issue of stunting, which is not only rooted in a lack of socialization within communities but also in the insufficient variety of nutrients in daily meals, especially for micronutrients such as vitamin A. On the other hand, the presence of tempe as an affordable food source in Indonesia with sufficient nutrition could be an alternative for food fortification. Therefore, one solution proposed by Team Templus to address the stunting issue is fortifying tempe through genetic engineering using the fermentation agent Rhizopus oryzae induced with precursor genes for carotenoids by Mucor circinelloides.

Though initially encountering confusion in method construction, Team Templus successfully completed the proposal, hoping that the offered solution could likely progress to the research stage and succeed in testing. Subsequently, this solution is anticipated to serve as an alternative to reducing stunting rates in Indonesia. [Author: Anandita Amalia]

The National Higher Education Standard Regulation requires the implementation of education based on learning outcomes, also known as Outcome-Based Education (OBE). One of the goals of OBE implementation is to respond to the challenges of Industry 4.0 by providing Education 4.0 that prepares students to utilize their abilities, attitudes, knowledge, and skills to solve real-world problems. The expected outcome is that graduates are ready to apply their abilities according to the needs of Industry 4.0. The university anticipates a high absorption of graduates in the industrial world, contributing significantly to society and the country. Another impact is to meet the requirements for obtaining international accreditation, which can enhance the university’s reputation and global educational quality recognition.

To support the implementation of Outcome-Based Learning (OBE) and contribute to SDG no. 4 (Quality Education) in the Faculty of Biology UGM, on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, the faculty of Biology organized the OBA SIMASTER Training session with speakers Dr. Widya Wasityastuti, M.Sc., M.Med.Ed., Ph.D. from the University’s Quality Assurance and Reputation Unit (SPMRU), along with Akhmad Aminullah, S.T., M.T., Ph.D. supported by Budi Saptono, S.Kom. from the Directorate of Information Technology (DTI UGM). The event took place in the Tropical Biology Auditorium at the Faculty of Biology UGM and was attended by all lecturers from the faculty, both in-person and virtually.

The event began with an introduction by the MC, Asrindon, S.Ikom., followed by remarks from Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs and Student Affairs, officially opening the training. The training was divided into theoretical sessions presented by Dr. Widya Wasityastuti, M.Sc., M.Med.Ed., Ph.D., and practical sessions on using OBA SIMASTER guided by Akhmad Aminullah, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., and Budi Saptono, S.Kom. The theoretical aspects covered in the training included the concepts of Outcome-Based Education (OBE), assessment methods, course portfolios, and an introduction to using OBA SIMASTER. During the practical sessions using OBA SIMASTER, participants were guided through the process of compiling course portfolios from start to finish.

The materials presented in this training provided a deeper understanding and insight into course portfolios and the use of the OBA SIMASTER tool to support OBE implementation. Interactive discussions ensued regarding creating comprehensive and effective course portfolios that facilitate the implementation of OBE. The training aimed to provide an understanding of using OBA SIMASTER to facilitate easier course portfolio compilation. With this outcome-based assessment information system, it is expected that the monitoring and quality assurance processes in learning can be more measurable and well-documented, thereby realizing the Faculty of Biology UGM as a robust and high-quality educational institution (SDGs no. 16 and 04).

Two Biology students from Gadjah Mada University, Doni Dwi Prasetyo and Muhammad Maulana Ibrohim Al Ghozi, conducted research activities under the Merdeka Belajar – Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program from October 5th to December 31st, 2023, at the Center for Applied Microbiology Research – National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). They were guided by Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech. a lecturer from Faculty Biology UGM, Fitri Setiyoningrum, S.TP, M.Si., and Fifi Afiati, S.Pt., M.Si., as their mentors during their time at BRIN.

Microorganisms, including bacteria and yeast, have the capability to produce secondary metabolites, one of which is bioflavor compounds. Bioflavor compounds are volatile substances obtained from natural materials. Microbes can generate flavor compounds through biosynthetic pathways such as fermentation. During fermentation, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are broken down by microbes to produce flavor compounds. Saccharomyces cerevisiae has the potential to produce butyl butyrate bioflavor compounds resembling the fragrance of fruits like pineapple, while Kluyveromyces marxianus has the potential to produce 2-phenylethanol with the fragrance of roses and honey. Additionally, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Yarrowia lipolytica, Rhodosporidium toruloides, and Ashbya gossypii can also produce limonene bioflavor compounds, known for their distinct citrus peel scent. Among the bacteria, Lactobacillus sp.,is capable of producing ester-group bioflavor compounds and their derivatives, such as methyl esters characterized by fruity and floral scents. Limonene compounds can also be produced by Escherichia coli and Streptomyces bacteria.

Throughout their MBKM activities at the Center for Applied Microbiology Research, the students engaged in various tasks, including isolating endophytic microbes from various citrus varieties, documenting microbial isolates, and rejuvenating microbial isolates. They also conducted biotransformation of bioflavor compounds by adding substances like vitamins, enzymes, and precursors necessary for microbes to synthesize the desired bioflavor compounds. The students further analyzed compound contents using GC-MS and LC-MS. The experiences gained during this MBKM activity can serve as valuable knowledge for their thesis research.

According to Dr. Abdul, their supervising professor, this endeavor marks the initial step toward further research on the potential of bioflavors as substitutes for synthetic flavors. “I hope that the outcomes of this research can make a positive contribution to the development of safer flavor compounds compared to synthetic ones,” . This MBKM activity also aims to raise public awareness regarding the diversity of microbes and their potential in producing safer compounds compared to synthetic ones. Through this research, it is hoped that new innovations can be created in the fields of food, medicine, and cosmetics for the betterment of human welfare.

The team of Community Service Program – Independent Learning Independent Campus (PkM-MBKM) conducted a Socialization and Tissue Culture Training on Sunday, November 12, 2023. The event took place at PKBM Ibnu Hajar (Pasinaon Laboratory) in Sirahan Village, Salam District, Magelang Regency, with 30 participants from SMK Negeri 1 Salam. The event was successfully conducted with Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc., as the supervising professor, along with 19 biology students of the Faculty of Biology, UGM.

PKBM Ibnu Hajar is a non-formal learning institution initiated by the community. This institution facilitates learners to study and develop skills outside formal schooling. One of the facilities owned by PKBM Ibnu Hajar is the Pasinaon Laboratory, a household-scale laboratory that can be used for plant propagation using tissue culture techniques. This facility opens up new potential that can be utilized by various groups, both in terms of education and the economy. Therefore, the PkM-MBKM Orchid Team conducted tissue culture training for the young generation of Indonesia, especially students from SMK N 1 Salam, to maximize this potential in creating a skilled generation to realize Indonesia Emas in 2045.The topic of this activity supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) program for 4 goals, namely goals 3, 4, 11 and 17: Good health and well-being; Quality education; Sustainable cities and communities; and Partnership to achieve goals.

The activity was opened by MC Safira Ameliani Ifada, followed by remarks from Dra. Ida Fitri Lusiana, the Founder of PKBM Ibnu Hajar, and Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti M.S., M.Sc. in this event Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti M.S., M.Sc delivered material on “Introduction to Orchid Cultivation with Tissue Culture for Beginners” that covered the introduction of various orchid species and their importance as national biodiversity, cultivation and care processes, and economic prospects. After the presentation, the training on sowed orchid planting and subcultured Cymbidium ensifolium orchid explants was carried out and was guided by 6 students: Anisa Dewi Rahayu, Siddharta Arya Anggoro Cen, Novi Astuti Indra Paranita, Gerald Dafa Rizaldy, Khansa Huwaida, and Gina Septiani Agustin. The training concluded with an interactive discussion between the participants and the PkM-MBKM team. The activity ended with the presentation of certificates and the textbook “Plant Biotechnology” from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, to SMK N 1 Salam and the PKBM Ibnu Hajar Library.

It is expected that this activity will be the starting point for Sirahan Village and SMK N 1 Salam in developing tissue culture skills. The basics of tissue culture techniques taught in this event can be further developed and utilized by the participants. The advancement of technology has made tissue culture techniques easy and affordable, allowing them to be performed even with simple tools and materials. Furthermore, the rapid and uniform production of plants by tissue culture will enhance plant production, contributing to economic advancement. Collaboration between PKBM Ibnu Hajar and Pasinaon Laboratory with the Faculty of Biology UGM can continue to be sustainable to achieve the goal of improving the education of the younger generation which will support the community’s economy [Authors: Muhammad Fityatul Haq and Fitra Laras Wigati]

On Saturday, November 4, 2023, the Public Opinion Management Department of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), and the Student Press Institution of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIPOL) at UGM successfully held a seminar with the theme “Utilization of Biomass for New Renewable Energy” entitled “Potentials and Challenges of Biomass as New Renewable Energy” held offline at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology. The event addressed issues related to new renewable energy, focusing on both scientific and social perspectives.

The seminar was led by Muhammad Farrel Zharif Zidane and Fatiha Esti Murwani as the MCs and was attended by approximately 150 participants from various faculties within UGM and participants from outside UGM. The seminar commenced with an opening by the MCs, followed by the singing of the Indonesian national anthem, the Gadjah Mada University Hymn, and the Faculty of Biology March. The event continued with addresses from Rima Arvisya Natania Putri, the head of the organizing committee, and Fathur Syahrian Ramadhani, the head of the Biology Student Executive Board (BEM). Subsequently, the main activities included presentations moderated by Muhammad Fauzi. The first speaker, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., discussed renewable energy and its utilization from a scientific perspective. He is an expert in Plant Biology and algae and their utilization in developing renewable energy. The second speaker, Prof. Dr. Poppy Sulistyaning Winanti, S.IP., M.PP., addressed the social perspective related to the use of renewable energy in society. Poppy has extensive experience in research and analysis related to social issues.

This seminar provided a platform for participants to discuss current issues related to energy and to inspire positive actions in the development of renewable energy in Indonesia. The event was a result of collaboration between the UGM Biology Student Executive Board and SINTESA FISIPOL UGM in an effort to enhance understanding and awareness of the importance of renewable energy in both scientific and social contexts.