The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada achieved proud achievements at the international level following the release of the 2024 QS World University Rankings (WUR) by Subject from the world university ranking agency, QS Quacquarelli Symonds (QS). In the field of Biology through QS WUR by Subject Biological Science, the Faculty of Biology is ranked first in Indonesia and 501-550th in the world for two consecutive years (2023-2024). This position is equal to biology programs at several world-renowned universities such as Murdoch University, Australia to Okayama University and Tokyo University, Japan. These results prove Biology program of Universitas Gadjah Mada position as the best biology study program in Indonesia and is on par with similar fields of science with other world’s best universities.

The ranking carried out by QS WUR is based on five indicators including academic reputation, employer reputation, citation per faculty, h-index citation, and international research network. Universitas Gadjah Mada itself places 25 fields of subject in the 2024 QS WUR by Subject, one of which is in the field of biological sciences. For the last three years, the UGM Faculty of Biology has competed fiercely on the five assessment indicators with the field of biological sciences from several other best universities in Indonesia, namely the University of Indonesia, IPB University and Airlangga University.

The UGM Faculty of Biology is in first place, especially in the academic reputation and citation per faculty indicators in the QS WUR Biological Science assessment compared to other best universities in Indonesia. This is of course supported by the reputation and contribution of the entire Faculty of Biology academic community in improving the quality and quantity of research, as well as its international programs in the field of biological sciences, such as double degree programs, student exchanges, international summer courses, research collaborations, and joint publications. In addition, the Faculty of Biology also competes fiercely in the indicators of employer reputation, h-index citation and international research network, thereby demonstrating the quality of the Faculty of Biology at national and international levels.

Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. as Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM admitted that achieving first place for three consecutive years was a bonus and encouragement for the academic community to improve the quality of the tridharma of higher education. He said that his faculty was committed to encouraging improvements in the quality and reputation of academics, research and collaboration. This commitment is accompanied by an annual evaluation together with the Faculty’s Senate. The Dean of the Faculty of Biology admitted that these results also showed the work efficiency of the limited number of lecturers. In total, one of the smallest faculties at UGM is supported by 70 lecturers, 57 of whom have doctoral degrees, and 10 have been appointed as Professors.

Prof. Budi also added that the increasing research collaboration and international publications in the Faculty of Biology were supported by the promotion of faculty collaboration with various prestigious universities in the world, including universities in England, the Netherlands, Germany, Australia, Japan and several universities in Southeast Asia. This collaboration is encouraged through Double Degree programs, some of which are with the Australian National University (ANU), Western Sydney University (WSU), and the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Another program is student exchange which so far has collaborated with Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) Malaysia, Yamagata University Japan, James Cook University Australia, and Ankara University Turkey.

The increase in collaboration that continues to be carried out by the Faculty of Biology is also supported by the Faculty’s plan budget allocation of 10-15 percent. The funding allocation will also continue to be increased in line with the plan to open the Biodiversity Curator Professional Study Program (PKKH) in mid-2024, and has collaborated with several universities in the world such as Leiden University of the Netherlands, Leipzig University Germany, ANU-Australia, Cairo University, Egypt, and Pukyong University-South Korea in the field of Biodiversity Curator Profession in Indonesia.

Prof. Budi added that the Faculty of Biology is working to improve facilities and infrastructure for research and the downstreaming of research innovation, and support collaborative research collaboration and international publications. The Dean of the Faculty of Biology also expressed his hope that the Faculty of Biology could achieved top 200 world ranking.

Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs of the Faculty of Biology UGM, said that the faculty will continue to increase its recognition on the world stage through research collaborations and impactful publications, as well as expanding collaboration networks on the international level. This commitment is expected to provide color for the development of biological sciences in Indonesia in accordance with the Faculty of Biology’s support for sustainable development goals (SDGs) and contribute to increasing inclusive education through expanding international standard collaboration (SDG 4 and 17).

The 2024 Biology Open House and Research Topic Introduction (BIOENTRI) is an event organized by the Faculty of Biology UGM to introduce research topics led by faculty members to students. The purpose of BIOENTRI is to acquaint students with various research topics that faculty members are focusing on. The hope is that this event will inspire students for their thesis, facilitate the students to gather with supervisors whose research aligns with their interests, and enhance their understanding of research topics.

The event was attended by students of the Faculty of Biology UGM and lecturers from various subjects of interest as speakers. The event took place from Monday, April 22, 2024, to Thursday, April 25, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM in Rooms 1, 2, and 3 (as scheduled ) and Lobby 1, Building B, Sinarmas, Faculty of Biology UGM. The event led by MC Alifiansyah Sutama and began with an opening ceremony and prayer, followed by the singing of the national anthem “Indonesia Raya,” the Universitas Gadjah Mada hymn, and the Faculty of Biology’s march. The event continued by a welcome speech from Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, and a group photo session. Subsequently, the activities included presentation sessions by each thesis supervisor.

The event not only introduced a variety of research topics relevant to the advancement of science but also to directly contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 on Quality Education. Through this event, students will also understand how the faculty members research positively impacts other SDGs goals, such as biodiversity protection, ecosystem restoration (Goals 13, 14, 15), and enhancing community well-being through innovations in biotechnology and natural resource management (Goals 9, 11, 13).

On Saturday, March 23, 2024, the Community Social Department of BEM Biology UGM organized the ‘’ Bagi Buka Berlian’’ event (Sharing Nobility During Ramadan), as part of the department’s program to share and hold iftar gathering during the month of Ramadan. The theme of the event was “The Beauty of Sharing in a Blessed Month.” The event took place at the Islamic Orphanage of the Ibadah Bunda Foundation and was attended by 13 committee members from the Community Social Department and 25 children from the orphanage. The event aimed to welcome the month of Ramadan 1445 H, foster camaraderie among one another, and serve as a means to share blessings.

The event opened at 4:00 PM, and was led by the MC, followed by remarks from Okcarinda Wahyu Romadani, the Event Field Coordinator, and Muhammad Nurul Fathoni Adha, the 2024 Chairman of BEM Biology UGM, as well as by Mrs. Ningsih, the caretaker of the Islamic Orphanage of the Ibadah Bunda Foundation. The event included a guess the style game designed to boost spirits and foster unity between the committee members and the children, creating a closer and warmer relationship. This session was filled with fun and laughter as the committee members and children enthusiastically participated in the games.Following the games, there was a religious talk by Ustadz Muhammad Iqbal on the theme “Productive Ramadan,” aimed at increasing knowledge about Islam and bringing additional blessings. This session taught us to remain active in positive activities even while fasting and to always seek the favor of Allah SWT.The event then moved on to a communal iftar with the children of the orphanage, which included shared meals and warm conversations, followed by the Maghrib prayer led by Ustadz Muhammad Iqbal. The activity concluded at 07.00 P.M. with a group photo.

The conclusion of this event was hoped to foster good relationships among all participants through mutual assistance and joy. Additionally, this blessed month of Ramadan serves as an opportunity for us all to compete in doing good deeds, thereby enhancing our faith, earning multiplied rewards, and hoping to reunite in the holy month of Ramadan 2025. [Author: BEM]

On Friday, March 29, 2024, the Joyful Iftar Gathering event was held. The JMMB UGM collaborated with the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Yatim Mandiri Foundation to share more happiness with those in need. The Joyful Iftar program not only provided iftar packages but also offered valuable experiences. The participants were treated to a special storytelling session full of inspiration. Religious materials and motivation were delivered to foster spiritual growth and self-development.

The activity took place at the Al-Hayat Mosque of the Faculty of Biology UGM, and was attended by orphans and the underprivileged from the Yatim Mandiri Foundation. The activity was opened by Birrul Qisty Mutmainnah Nazara and Zidny Qonita Addini, followed by remarks from Prof Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., the Dean of Faculty of Biology UGM and Try Sujatmiko Ramadhani, S.Si representing the Yatim Mandiri Foundation. The activity followed by the distribution of blessings from Prof Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. The activity continued with storytelling by Kak Andria and playing games together. After playing games, the participants broke their fast together.

The purpose of the Joyful Iftar Together activity is to provide an opportunity for orphans and the underprivileged to experience joy and comfort in a warm and friendly atmosphere during the month of Ramadan, to provide valuable and inspirational edutainment experiences, and to foster spiritual growth and self-development. The activity concluded with the Maghrib prayer and group documentation. [Author: JMMB]

On Friday, April 19, 2024, the Department of Tropika Biology at the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, organized a Discussion and Refreshment session on the Tridharma of Higher Education. Held in the Tropika Biology Auditorium, the event was initiated upon the recommendation of the Faculty of Biology Senate and aimed to refresh the understanding of the significance of the Tridharma—teaching, research, and community service—in an ever-evolving academic landscape, and to share experiences, insights, and ideas related to Tridharma.

The event was inaugurated by Abdul Razaq Chasani, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D., the Head of the Department of Tropika Biology, followed by remarks from Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., the Dean of the Faculty of Biology. Prof. Budi expressed his gratitude to the Faculty Senate for their consistent support in maintaining excellence in education, research, and community service.

The first session was delivered by Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., Vice Dean of Academic Affairs and Student Affairs, who discussed the academic responsibilities, rights, and obligations of faculty members. The second session was presented by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., Vice Dean of Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, who emphasized the importance of synergy between research, publications, facilities, and community service among faculty and laboratories to fulfill the goals of the Tridharma.

This event reflects the Faculty of Biology UGM’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through enhancing quality education (SDG No. 4) and fostering innovation and infrastructure (SDG No. 9).

On Wednesday (17/4/24), the Faculty of Biology UGM held the Syawalan 1444 H and Halal Bi Halal, which is annual activities carried out by the Faculty of Biology UGM every Shawwal month, this time with the theme “Self-Improvement on the Day of Eid”. The recitation took place at the Tropical Biology Auditorium and was attended by all Lecturers, Education Staff, Association of Dharma Wanita Management, Retired Lecturers/Educational Staff, and Student representatives.

The event began with a recitation of the Qoran, by Zikri Ilham Putranto, a student from the Faculty of Biology. The Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., opened the event with a speech. “Thank you for your presence. Let us express our gratitude for the health and opportunities that allow us to be here today. The tradition of seeking and granting forgiveness is very beneficial, as no human is free from error. We sincerely ask for forgiveness, both openly and deeply, hoping that the spiritual growth developed during Ramadan will continue beyond,” said Prof. Budi.

Next the Syawalan Pledge was delivered, guided by Abdul Razaq Chasani, M.Si., Ph.D., Head of the Department of Tropika Biology, was recited by all attendees, embodying a mutual commitment to sincere forgiveness. The pledge is a hope that this mutual forgiveness will restore our innate purity and devotion.

The main event was a religious talk by Drs. Haryanto, M.Si., Psikolog., a retired lecturer from the Faculty of Psychology UGM. In his lecture, Dr. Haryanto emphasized that life involves constant improvement. He described three groups of people: those who improve each day, those who remain the same, and those who regress. The essence of self-improvement is to strive to be better than yesterday and better tomorrow than today. He related this to the philosophy of Syawalan and the tradition of “kupat” (admitting mistakes) and “laku papat” (hastening to seek God’s forgiveness to reach heaven). Dr. Haryanto concluded his talk by highlighting three noble deeds: giving to those who do not give to us, reconnecting with those who have severed ties, and forgiving those who have wronged us, noting, “Allah greatly favors those who perform good acts.”

The lecture was followed by a prayer led by Dr. Haryanto and handshaking, symbolizing mutual forgiveness. Attendees were then invited to enjoy the refreshments provided.

This annual Syawalan and Halal Bi Halal event is part of the Faculty of Biology UGM commitment to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including ending hunger, promoting good health and well-being, and fostering peace, justice, and strong institutions.

Mountaineering, often known as mountain climbing, is an activity that involves reaching, or attempting to reach, high points in mountainous locations. This activity is often undertaken for recreation, adventure, sport, research, or spiritual reasons. Mountain climbing offers numerous benefits, from improving physical and mental health to providing thrilling adventure experiences. It allows participants to connect with nature, develop skills, and strengthen social bonds.

On Saturday, March 9, 2024, Matalabiogama organized a group hiking trip to Mount Ungaran, Semarang, Central Java. Mount Ungaran stands at 2050 meters above sea level, presenting a challenging yet suitable climb for beginners. Ten members of Matalabiogama from AM XXIV, AM XXV, and AM XXVI gathered at the Faculty of Biology at 10:00 PM local time, where they checked their gear, prayed, and briefing, then departed by motorcycle at 10:30 PM. After a four-hour journey, the Matalabiogama team arrived at Basecamp Mawar at 2:30 AM. The team began to hike at 3:00 AM.

From Basecamp Mawar toward the Pintu Rimba, the path was flanked by vegetable and rose gardens, explaining the origin of the basecamp’s name. After entering Pintu Rimba, the team continued their trek, stopping briefly at five rest posts to ensure no one was left behind or injured, and to check hydration and oxygen needs. By the time they reached posts 3 and 4, it was dawn, and team members performed their morning prayers. Two-thirds into the journey, the team entered a mossy forest, followed by navigating through steep slopes, Ghost Valley, and Jinten Valley. As they climbed higher, the route became more difficult. Despite the challenges, the team enjoyed the experience and the views along the way. By 8:30 AM, the team reached their destination, Benteng Raiders Peak. There, the team bonded over a meal sharing, chatting, and joking, while enjoying the view. From that height, they could see the city of Semarang and its surroundings. They even experienced clouds during the day due to the high altitude.
At 11:00 AM, the team prepared to descend the mountain, retracing their path back to the basecamp. By 2:00 PM, all members had regrouped at the basecamp to rest, worship, and prepare for the return to the Faculty of Biology. They departed from the basecamp at 3:30 PM and arrived at the Faculty of Biology at UGM by 7:00 PM.

This bonding and mountaineering activity was a positive endeavor that helped to develop physical strength and solidarity among the members. It is hoped that mountaineering will become a regular activity for Matalabiogama to train and hone the skills of its members. [Author: Matalabiogama]

Yogyakarta, April 6 2024 – Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada is expanding their network in international collaboration and recognition through the initiation of collaboration with Durham University, especially the Faculty of Science. Together with the Faculty of Geography and the Faculty of Political and Social Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, collaborative discussions took place online and were attended by Prof. Olive Roberts as Executive Dean Faculty of Science, Prof. Jun Jie Wu as Deputy Executive Dean Faculty of Science as well as several other colleagues from Durham University.

Alfatika Aunuriella Dini, Ph.D. as Head of Office of International Office UGM guided the discussion on Friday (6/4) afternoon which began with a presentation on collaboration from the Faculty of Biology UGM, represented by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs at the Faculty of Biology.

Dr. Eko explained the various collaborations that could be established and had previously been established by the Faculty of Biology with various international partners. He conveyed that international classes (International Undergraduate Program) in the biology study program where all classes are delivered in English is an additional opportunity to collaborate on student exchanges from various countries. Dr. Eko also adds opportunities for students and lecturers, especially from Durham University, to participate in the International Summer Course for the Faculty of Biology which will take place next June.

The discussion continued with presentations from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, as well as the Faculty of Geography. Each faculty also delivers international programs that can be collaborated on, including student exchange, mobility programs and summer courses. Alfatika also adds the potential for 1+1 double degree collaboration through the LPDP funding scheme which can be collaborated with each faculty. It is hoped that this initiation can be followed by other, more comprehensive discussions.

This discussion is a great bridge to increase the collaboration network between Universitas Gadjah Mada, especially the Faculty of Biology and Durham University. It is hoped that this collaboration can support the improvement of education and research at the Faculty of Biology UGM and increase student learning opportunities at the international level, in line with support for the Sustainable Development Goals for improving education and expanding collaboration in international level (SDG 4 and 17).

Based on the results of the Faculty Level Achievement Student Selection (Pilmapres) at Universitas Gadjah Mada which was held on 19 March 2024 and taking into account the results of the meeting to determine the winner by the university jury team and the faculty jury team, the Director of Student Affairs appointed Eva Yuniar Reza Permana Putri (Biology 2021) as the winner of the 2024 Faculty-Level Pilmapres at Universitas Gadjah Mada. The Pilmapres was held from 29 February – 8 March 2024 as an initial stage of selection, namely registration and collection of committee files. These files include Outstanding Achievements (CU) which contain participant achievements, Creative Idea Papers (GK) for undergraduate category participants with the theme “Sustainable Development Goals” according to the participants’ fields of study, and English Language Certificates (TOEFL/ITP/IELTS/ ACEPT/TOEP/TOEIC). The files were then selected by the UGM Outstanding Student Community (Kommapres) on 12 March 2024, followed by Faculty Level selection on 16 – 17 March 2024. The Faculty level selection stage included interviews for Outstanding Achievements ( CU) and Creative Idea presentations (GK) based on the scripts made by each participant.The announcement of The Faculty level was made on 19 March 2024.

Eva Yuniar Reza Permana Putri (Biology 2021) has been known as an active student both in academic and non-academic fields. Eva actively participated in various activities and competitions including the winner of Nutrifood Leadership Award 2023; chosen for ASEAN+ Youth Summit 2023 and SDGs Annual Conference 2023; delegation of the The 27th National Congress IAAS Indonesia; 2nd place on Student Scientific Festival Essay Competition; and 3rd Place on Business Competition ENVROTECH 4.0 organized by PERTAMINA Hulu Indonesia. Eva is also active in organizations, namely the internal head of the ormada Ikatan Mahasiswa Magelang (IMAGE), Advocacy and Student Welfare by the Biology Student Executive Board, and the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association. Eva has been awarded the BSI Scholarship for Achievement, recognized as the Outstanding Non-Academic Student at UGM in the Category of Humanitarian Activity, received a Fully Funded Volunteering opportunity by Indonesian Youth Action in Banda Neira, and also a Fully Funded Sakura Science Program at Yamagata University, Japan, to further her interest in Molecular Biology and Biochemical Engineering.

Eva’s creative idea focuses on the bioprospecting of the local food plant Jali-Jali as a means to explore biodiversity for achieving Indonesia’s food sovereignty. This topic is inspired by her activities with Climate Reality Indonesia in Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, which align with the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

On March 30, 2024, thirty members of BiOSC participated in the BiOSC Cultivation Training x Labskill at the Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada. This event was a collaboration between the Research and Cultivation Divisions of BiOSC. The BiOSC Cultivation Training x Labskill focuses on subculture techniques and seed sowing training, The event included three sessions: a lecture by a postgraduate student in Biotechnology, Febri Yuda Kurniawan; a training on subculture techniques; and a final session on seed sowing techniques. This series of activities begins with a pretest for participants followed by a lecture on sterilization, in vitro culture techniques, contaminants, and culture media.

Next, participants were divided into four groups. The first two groups practiced seed-sowing techniques using a Laminar Air Flow (LAF) cabinet with Eulophia javanica and Coelogyne trinervis. Meanwhile, the other two groups carried out subculture techniques in incubators. Throughout the training, participants were guided by students mentored by Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc., Shiddharta Arya Anggoro Cen, and Nurul Istiqomah. The aseptic technique was emphasized as a critical component for the success of this activity.
“As I’m only in my second semester, I didn’t know much about orchid cultivation. This training on cultivation techniques has expanded my knowledge and feels like I’m cosplaying as a researcher,” said Golda, an active member of AD 18 who participated in the BiOSC Cultivation Training x Labskill. The event aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge of basic in vitro orchid cultivation techniques and expected to be able to apply this knowledge in the future.