The Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) iGEM 2024 team has once again achieved remarkable success at the Bioinformatics and Synthetic Biology (BIOS) 2024 competition, organized by Synbio.id. Competing virtually from August to December 2024, two of UGM’s leading teams Phytovac and Gamanthrax brought home an impressive array of accolades, including Best Presentation, Best Website, Best Poster, the prestigious Gold Medal, and the ultimate Grand Prize.

The UGM iGEM team consists of 19 interdisciplinary students, including eight talented members from the Faculty of Biology: Anandita Amalia Dewi (2021), Salma Rohmaniah (2021), Erwinda Dwi Chofifah (2022), Tan Rendy (2022), Angga Firza Pratama (2023), Geraldine Yara Amritasahmi (2023), Nauval Rajwaa Raysendria (2023), and Tsaqifa Zuhayra Emery Bagus (2023). The synergy among students from diverse academic backgrounds was key to the team’s success, fostering creativity and innovation to address real-world societal challenges.

Under the guidance of Dr. Yekti Asih Purwestri, M.Si., the UGM iGEM team adopted molecular farming as an innovative approach to develop therapeutic solutions for pressing health issues in Indonesia. Team Phytovac, led by Farrel Alfaza Marsetyo (Faculty of Medicine, 2021), introduced a project titled “Immunoinformatics Design of Virus-Like Particle-linked Dengue Vaccine for Expression in Nicotiana benthamiana System”, targeting the prevalent issue of dengue fever. Team Gamanthrax, led by Fahmi Ihsanuddin Jauhari (Faculty of Pharmacy, 2021), presented a project titled “In Silico Design of Plant-Based Anthrax Vaccine using Recombinant DNA Method”, focusing on the development of a plant-based anthrax vaccine.

Both projects successfully leveraged computational modeling and mathematical simulation technologies to design plant-based vaccines—groundbreaking advancements in biotechnology.
The BIOS 2024 competition featured a rigorous selection process, beginning with abstract submissions, proposal videos, website showcases, posters, and presentation videos from August 24 to November 10, 2024. Both UGM teams advanced to the final round on November 29, 2024, where they engaged in interactive judging sessions.

The journey culminated in the Grand Final on November 30, 2024, where Phytovac emerged as a grand finalist alongside two other top teams. In the final round, the teams presented their projects to judges and audiences. The competition’s pinnacle was marked by the Awarding Ceremony on December 1, 2024, where both Phytovac and Gamanthrax were crowned champions, earning multiple prestigious awards.

This outstanding achievement highlights the competitive excellence of UGM’s Faculty of Biology students on the national stage. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, relentless hard work, and a passion for innovation, the UGM iGEM team has proven that science and technology hold the key to driving sustainable and positive societal change.

On November 26, 2024, Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., a lecturer at the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) had the opportunity to become one of the speakers in the training entitled From Basic to Advanced: Preclinical Animal Models for Human Disease organized by the Integrated Research and Testing Laboratory, UGM. The event, which was held hybrid, was attended by 8 offline participants and 12 online participants from various institutions such as from Surabaya, Riau, Purwokerto, and Yogyakarta. In this training, Dr. Ardaning provided one of the materials from the entire series of training, about Laboratory Animals (Rodents: Rats and Mice): Handling, Housing, Treatment. Dr. Ardaning explained in detail about the correct and proper ways to handle, care for, and treat laboratory animals, especially rats and mice, in order to meet ethical standards and ensure valid and reliable research results. This is very important to ensure animal welfare and the credibility of the data produced in the research.

The training aims to provide insight and practical skills regarding the use of pra-clinical animal models in human disease research, as well as an in-depth understanding of the welfare of the animals used. Therefore, in this training, participants in addition to receiving various materials related to the ethics of using laboratory animals; handling-housing-treatment of animal models; and animal models of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, lung cancer, and hypertension, they also have the opportunity to practice directly related to the materials provided. With this training, it is hoped that the lecturers, researchers, and laboratory technicians involved can apply new knowledge and skills in their research so as to support SDGs programs no. 3 (healthy and prosperous life) and 4 (quality education). This activity is also an important step in improving the quality of animal-based research in Indonesia, as well as encouraging the development of more effective pra-clinical models to study human diseases.

Banjarmasin, November 27, 2024 – The Green Edge Lubricants team claimed first place in the Call for Business Idea category at the Greenovation 2024 organized by Bank Indonesia of South Kalimantan. The event drew over 400 participants, including innovative startups, industry experts, and academics. Green Edge Lubricants captured the judges’ attention with their groundbreaking eco-friendly lubricant derived from palm oil, outshining intense competition.

The team comprised Soen Eliora Valerie Natania (Biology), Dania Husna Huwaida (Chemical Engineering), and Khabib Abdul Aziz (Chemical Engineering). Soen Eliora focused on the product’s sustainability, emphasizing environmental compatibility, biodegradability of raw materials, and potential impacts on wastewater. Dania Husna Huwaida led the lubricant formulation, optimizing material composition for optimum performance. Meanwhile, Khabib Abdul Aziz designed an efficient production system, tailoring industrial-scale processes to ensure the product’s readiness for real-world implementation.

This innovative lubricant is tailored for cold rolling steel and metal stamping processes, which traditionally rely on expensive and environmentally harmful mineral oil-based lubricants. By incorporating biodegradable materials like oleic acid and synthetic esters, the lubricant reduces water consumption during cleaning processes by over 50%. Additionally, it offers superior lubricity, extending the tool’s lifespan while minimizing the environmental impact of wastewater.

“Biology is often perceived as unrelated to the industrial sector, but we aim to demonstrate its pivotal role in sustainability. My responsibility was to ensure that this product is not only efficient but also environmentally friendly, aligning with circular economy principles,” explained Soen Eliora.

Dania Husna Huwaida added, “Creating this lubricant faces unique challenges. It needed to meet high-performance standards while remaining cost-effective and easy to manufacture. Palm oil is the ideal raw material to achieve these goals.”

“Our focus was to design an adaptive, efficient production system to ensure the product’s readiness for industrial-scale application, meeting the demands of Indonesia’s market,” said Khabib Abdul Aziz.

The Greenovation 2024 participants have to present their innovative ideas and defend their concepts before a panel of industry experts, academics, and Bank Indonesia representatives. Teams were required to demonstrate both the economic and environmental impact of their products, tackling detailed technical questions.

“Every team presented great ideas, making the competition extremely fierce. We worked hard to highlight the technical strengths and sustainability of our innovation,” said Khabib.
With this victory, Green Edge Lubricants opens the door to further product development and potential collaborations with industry partners. Their lubricant is expected to drive a significant impact on Indonesia’s metal industry while contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

The Greenovation 2024 competition underscored the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration in developing impactful solutions. Green Edge Lubricants has proven that sustainability is not just a necessity but also an opportunity to build a more efficient, environmentally friendly future for industry.

Yogyakarta, November 29, 2024 – The Mine-Eye Gama team from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) secured second place in the Business Challenge Track of the Astranauts 2024 competition, organized by PT ASTRA DIGITAL on June 7, 2024. Competing against over 2,400 registered teams, Mine-Eye Gama stood out as one of the top seven finalists thanks to their innovative UAV drone and 3D LiDAR-based technology designed for real-time mining monitoring efficiency.

The team comprised Daniel Imanuel Manafe, Himawan Wicaksono, Stephanus Kevin Andika Rata (Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technology, 2022), Menliman Joyfal Gulo (Cartography and Remote Sensing, 2022), Sabila Hestuning (Management, 2023), and Soen Eliora Valerie Natania (Biology, 2023). Guided by mentor Jans Hendry, S.T., M.Eng., the team leveraged their multidisciplinary expertise to develop a comprehensive solution. Their system, built on a private broadband network, optimizes geospatial data acquisition in dynamic mining environments.

A Solution to Mining Monitoring Challenges
Representing the team, Daniel Imanuel Manafe explained that rapidly changing mining topographies often pose significant challenges to maintaining safety standards and productivity. “Traditional methods like terrestrial surveys are precise but inefficient for highly dynamic areas. Our system leverages UAV drones and 3D LiDAR to overcome these limitations,” he stated.
The technology enables real-time data acquisition using a private broadband-based control and transmission system. The vast data collected is processed and delivered to a specially designed Ground Control Station. This solution significantly reduces data collection and analysis time, providing operational advantages for the mining industry.

Collaboration and Valuable Experiences
For team member Eliora, a Biology student, participating in the competition was challenging and enlightening. “This competition was an invaluable experience. I hope more students expand beyond their comfort zones and expertise. That’s where the greatest opportunities can emerge,” she shared.

In addition to winning second place, the Mine-Eye Gama team gained access to numerous opportunities, including mentorship from industry experts, collaboration prospects with the Astra Group, and the chance to present their ideas to venture capitalists. Furthermore, the team will join the Astra Innovation Lab, a continuation program to develop innovative ideas and solutions in collaboration with top industry professionals.

“This competition has been a significant milestone for our team. We hope this innovation will make a tangible impact in the mining industry, particularly in enhancing efficiency and safety,” Daniel concluded.

The Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is committed to delivering world-class education. Following its successful attainment of ASIIN (Akkreditierungsagentur für Studiengänge der Ingenieurwissenschaften, der Informatik, der Naturwissenschaften und der Mathematik) international accreditation for undergraduate and master’s programs, the Faculty is now preparing to extend this achievement to its doctoral program.

As part of this strategic endeavor, on Thursday, November 28, 2024, the Faculty of Biology convened a working meeting to prepare for LAMSAMA’s national accreditation and ASIIN’s international accreditation. This initiative underscores the Faculty’s dedication to supporting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No.4, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all.

The meeting brought together the Accreditation Preparation Team, the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, and the Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources. In his remarks, the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs emphasized that this accreditation effort extends beyond merely meeting standards. It seeks to equip doctoral graduates with the global competencies needed to navigate the complexities of multidisciplinary challenges in the modern era.

The meetings’ discussions focused on strengthening the curriculum and devising strategies to produce exceptional graduates ready to excel on the international stage. These efforts are expected to solidify the Faculty of Biology UGM’s reputation as a world-class institution and nurture biology doctorates who can make meaningful contributions to global advancement.

Undergraduate students from the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University—Alifia Nur Hidayah, Ardiza Puspa Rahmaningtyas, Farah Ayu Kamayani, Hana Magista Qathrunnada, Tazkia Mahsya Syavira, and Luisa Ramyahastri Paramatatya—participated in an international human genetics conference. This conference was the 3rd Indonesian Society of Human Genetics (InaSHG) Conference, held simultaneously with the 2nd Indonesian Society of Genetic Counselors (ISGC) Annual Meeting 2024. In collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine at Brawijaya University, the event took place from November 21-23, 2024, at the Grand Mercure Hotel, Malang. With the theme “Genomics Medicine: Translational from Bedside to Bench to Business,” the conference emphasized a comprehensive approach to the development of medical genetics. The program included research presentation sessions aimed at disseminating the latest research advancements, innovations in clinical practice, and developments in genetics policy. These sessions were designed to optimize knowledge exchange, strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhance the professional competence of participants. The conference also featured symposia with speakers from prominent national and international genetics experts.

During the event, students under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc., and Indra Lesmana, S.Si., M.Sc., presented their research on the development of a Long-read Sequencing Application for Genotyping Hereditary Diseases in Humans. This research aims to develop an efficient genetic screening methodology for detecting various hereditary diseases, focusing on hemophilia A, obesity, thalassemia, and atopic dermatitis using long-read sequencing technology developed by Oxford Nanopore Technologies. The students gained valuable experience presenting their research at an international scientific forum, honed their scientific communication skills, and were inspired to further develop their research and broaden their knowledge about the latest advancements in genomics.

This research has significant implications, not only in academic contexts but also in supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3, which focuses on Good Health and Well-being. The contribution of this research to the development of genetics-based healthcare services represents a strategic step toward advancing the health system. The implementation of the developed technology is expected to have substantial impacts in several areas: optimizing preventive efforts and the management of genetic diseases, improving life expectancy for populations, and ensuring equitable, sustainable access to modern healthcare technologies.

On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), hosted a discussion titled “Alternative Mosquito Control Measures for Reducing Malaria Infections” at the Faculty’s Upper Meeting Room. The event, held from 9:00 to 11:00 AM, was attended by more than 30 participants, including lecturers and undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students. The session featured Micanaldo E. Francisco, a PhD student at Ehime University, Japan, and a lecturer at Lurio University, Mozambique, as the keynote speaker. The discussion was moderated by Atikah Fitria Muharromah, S.Si., M.Eng., a lecturer from the Entomology Laboratory, with Dr. Raden Roro Upiek Ngesti Wibawaning Astuti, DAP&E, B.Sc., M.Biomed., from the Animal Systematics Laboratory as the supervisor.

Micanaldo presented innovative approaches to mosquito control, emphasizing the role of a clean environment and advanced technology. One of his main experiments involved designing houses in Nampula District, Mozambique, with structural modifications such as doors, ventilation, windows, and roof eaves to prevent the entry of Anopheles mosquitoes, the primary malaria vector.

Additionally, Micanaldo elaborated on a drone and AI-based mosquito habitat and breeding site mapping method. This process involved:

This approach offers an efficient solution by reducing the time and cost associated with planning and implementing vector mosquito management programs. The method positively impacts public health by significantly lowering mosquito populations and the risk of malaria infections.

The discussion was interactive, with participants actively engaging through questions, reflecting high enthusiasm for these new technology-based methods. The Faculty of Biology UGM demonstrated its continued commitment to supporting global research relevant to public health and environmental sustainability.

The event concluded with remarks by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni of the Faculty of Biology UGM, who emphasized the importance of such discussions in fostering innovative solutions for pressing global challenges.

The approaches presented during this discussion contribute directly to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being: Strategies to control mosquitoes align with SDG 3.4 (reducing communicable diseases) and SDG 3.8 (ensuring access to essential healthcare services). SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation: Mapping mosquito habitats and identifying water bodies support better water resource management, aligning with SDG 6.6 (protecting and restoring water-related ecosystems). SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: The use of drones and AI reflects technological innovations supporting public health, corresponding to SDG 9.5 (enhancing scientific research and innovation) and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: Collaboration between UGM, Ehime University, and Lurio University exemplifies global partnerships for sustainable development.

This discussion represents a tangible step forward in addressing global health challenges through innovative and sustainable solutions.

Yogyakarta, 21 November 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada successfully held the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test, located in the Upper Conference Room and Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM. This activity followed the implementation of Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Training last Monday (18/11) and Tuesday (19/11), which was managed by the Biotechnology Competency Test Center (TUK) of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

A total of 18 participants were registered for the Competency Test. Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, Chief Executive of TUK, said in his speech that the participants came from various backgrounds, students, lecturers and researchers including from the Indonesian Education University (UPI), Gadjah Mada University (UGM), Riau University (UnRi), Medan State University, PPKS Bogor Unit, and PUIPT Microalgae Biorefinery UGM.

Chairman of LSP Agriculture, Drs. Surini Santoso, M.Si., was also present at the opening of the Level II Network Culture Competency Test Thursday (22/11). He expressed his appreciation for holding the Competency Test which was facilitated by TUK Biotechnology UGM. He added that this competency test can not only be used to support Main Performance Indicators (IKU) for lecturers or student competencies, but also to support university accreditation.

Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc. as Deputy Dean for Finance, Assets and Human Resources, Faculty of Biology UGM, was present to open the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test. Representing the Dean and other leaders, he expressed his support for the continuation of the Biotechnology Competency Test at the Faculty of Biology which is supported by the Agricultural Professional Certification Institute (LSP) under the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP).

The Level II Network Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test consists of three series of exams: written exams, practical exams and oral exams. The three exams are divided into two categories: regular and portfolio. The competency test is supported by assessors from LSP Agriculture, Woro Anondito S T., Ph.D. and Diah Purnamasari, S.TP.

The competency test closed with the announcement of the graduation of the 18 participants who took the competency test and were declared competent. Abdul Razaq Chasani as Chair of the TUK Faculty of Biology UGM expressed his appreciation as well as closing the implementation of the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test.

The implementation of this competency test is part of the UGM Faculty of Biology’s support for sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially in educational inclusiveness and contribution to ecosystem conservation. This competency test is expected to contribute to the competency of the participants and society in general.

Yogyakarta, 18 and 19 November 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada successfully held Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Training, located in the Upper Conference Room and Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM. This activity is part of a series of Competency Tests for the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme which will be held on Thursday (21/11), which is managed by the Biotechnology Competency Test Center (TUK) of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, Chief Executive of TUK, said in his speech that the activity was attended by 12 participants from student, lecturer and researcher backgrounds including from the Indonesian Education University (UPI), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Universitas Riau (UnRi), State University Medan, PPKS Bogor Unit, and PUIPT Microalgae Biorefinery UGM.

The first day of training was filled with lectures and discussions with Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc. entitled “Introduction and Basics of Tissue Culture Techniques”, and Aries Bagus Sasongko entitled “Competencies in Tissue Culture Techniques”.

The second day was a practical agenda held at the Biotechnology Laboratory and Karanggayam Research Station, Faculty of Biology UGM. The practicum consists of preparing mother plants and explants, introducing the tools used, medium, and basic techniques used in tissue culture, as well as practicum at the research station.

This training is part of the UGM Faculty of Biology’s commitment for sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially in educational inclusiveness and contribution to ecosystem conservation. It is hoped that this training will provide insight, especially to the participants, and society in general.

On November 14–17, 2024, the Asian Ornithological Conference (AOC) was held in Beijing, China, bringing together 528 delegates from 39 countries (505 from Asia and 23 from outside Asia). Attendees represented 76 universities, 37 research institutions, and 28 exhibitors, sponsors, and event supporters. This quadrennial conference, previously held virtually in Zhuhai, China, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to foster academic exchange across Asia, promote ornithological research and conservation, and enhance the international status and influence of Asian ornithological organizations.

The vibrant conference was supported by the International Ornithology Union (IOU) and organized by the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, in collaboration with the International Zoological Society, China Ornithological Society, and the journal Avian Research. Over four days, the event facilitated knowledge-sharing on bird-related research across participating countries through plenary talks, symposia, and poster presentations.

Key conference highlights included:

• Plenary Talks: Eight speakers, including Indonesia’s Prof. Dr. Dewi M. Prawiradilaga from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN).
• Keynote Talks: Four speakers, with Indonesia represented by Mohammad Irham, M.Sc. (BRIN).
• Youth Talks: Three speakers from various countries.
• Symposia: 26 sessions with 190 delegates, including Indonesia’s Dr. Anik Budhi Dharmayanthi and Yohanna Dalimunthe, M.Si. (BRIN), Prof. Pramana Yuda (Universitas Atmajaya Yogyakarta), and Dwi Agustina (UGM graduate student and Program Coordinator at the Indonesian Cockatoo Conservation Association, KKI).

The conference also featured a bazaar of research tools and equipment, showcasing products from leading companies in China and beyond.

• Dudi Nandika received the First Prize Poster Award for his poster, “Recent Data Analysis on Feeding Guilds of Bird Communities as Bioindicators for the Management of Manusela National Park, Maluku.”
• Dwi Agustina earned the First Prize Presentation Award for her oral presentation, “Aligning Cockatoo Conservation Efforts with Local Huaulu Customary Wisdom on Seram Island, Maluku, Indonesia.”