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News Release
Yogyakarta, 4 November 2024 – Faculty of Biology UGM received a visit from Medical Bioinformatics Expert from National Central University (NCU), Taiwan, Dr. Hui-Yin Chang. The visit took place at the Faculty of Biology UGM, attended by Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs. Also present were several lecturers with a focus on biomedical research, including Dr.biol.hom. Nastiti Wijayanti from the Animal Physiology Laboratory, Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, M.Biotech from the Microbiology Laboratory, and Tyas Iksan Hikmawan, Ph.D. from the Biochemistry Laboratory, as well as an NCU alumni and researcher at the Integrated Genome Factory (IGF) Faculty of Biology, Raden Aditya Aryandi, M.Sc.
Dr. Eko as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs welcomed the visit. He said that the Faculty of Biology had established good communication and initiated cooperation since Prof. Chien-Chia Wang, Dean for College of Health Sciences & Technology, NCU Taiwan some time ago. Dr. Eko also conveyed the profile of the Faculty of Biology, from study program profiles, facilities to international collaborations that are ongoing to date.
Dr. Hui-Yin Chang appreciated the opportunity for discussion and explained information about the Department of Biomedical Science and Engineering. She conveyed the potential for collaboration with experts and professors in the fields of bio-engineering, bio-materials, bio-medicine and bio-informatics. This matter was also discussed with lecturers at the Faculty of Biology who have research related to biomedicine. Dr. Chang expressed her enthusiasm for collaborative projects that could be initiated either with her in the field of bioinformatics, or with other NCU professors.
In this discussion, student exchange collaboration with the potential for double degrees with the College of Health Science and Technology NCU was also initiated. Experts from both institutions can also work together in guiding students through joint supervision, as well as collaborative research and publications through joint publications and joint authorship.
The collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and NCU is expected to be part of the Faculty of Biology’s commitment to its role in sustainable development in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely healthy living (SDG 3), inclusive quality education for all groups (SDG 4), as well as partnerships in achieving sustainable goals (SDG 17).
As a mega biodiversity country, Indonesia possesses extensive biological resources that hold significant potential not only for bioprospecting but also for biodiversity monitoring research. Distribution and biodiversity have become key indicators of environmental quality. With the advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, biodiversity monitoring can now leverage environmental DNA (eDNA), facilitating rapid and comprehensive community assessments. This approach enables the detection of a wide range of taxa, including not only conventionally sampled flora and fauna but also microbial communities that remain unculturable through traditional methods.
As part of its commitment to advancing research capacity, the Integrated Genome Factory (IGF) recently hosted the IGF MasterClass, a specialized training in eDNA metabarcoding for researchers from Universitas Sriwijaya. Held from October 28 to 30, 2024, at the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Yogyakarta, the event commenced with an opening address by Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, S.Si., M.Sc., Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources at UGM’s Faculty of Biology. Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., the Master Trainer, initiated the training with an in-depth introduction to eDNA theoretical foundations. The first day included field-based eDNA sampling techniques, led by Assistant Andryan, followed by DNA extraction and PCR sample preparation conducted by Adhisa F. P., S.Si., and Ashfiya Hanif, S.Si.
Once participants mastered rigorous sampling methodologies and acquired high-quality samples, IGF personnel guided them through hands-on library preparation workflows on the second day. This session was designed to prepare participants for metabarcoding sequencing using the Nanopore platform. The participants engaged enthusiastically, actively participating in each step of the training process.
On the third day, the focus shifted to the data interpretation necessary for accurate metabarcoding analysis. Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., led sessions on Nanopore software operation, data refinement, processing, and best practices for achieving publication-standard representation of sequencing data. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Engagement, Cooperation, and Alumni at UGM’s Faculty of Biology, concluded the event, expressing hope that the training outcomes would be directly applied by the researchers in their respective institutions and foster future collaborations with IGF and the Faculty of Biology at UGM.
“This training was exceptional. The materials were presented effectively by the young, experienced trainers, making complex concepts accessible,” commented Dr. Melki, S.Si., M.Si., at the session’s close.
IGF and the Faculty of Biology UGM are committed to enhancing research capacity and collective action to conserve Indonesia’s biological diversity by advancing genomics technology through the Nanopore sequencing platform. The IGF, equipped with ONT PromethION 24 and a Data Acquisition Unit (DAU) capable of processing up to 720 Gb of DNA sequencing daily, is well-positioned to offer high-throughput sequencing services and collaborative opportunities with institutions across Indonesia.
On Saturday, September 28, 2024, the Marine Study Group (KSK) of the Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada organized the Kopdar Alumni 2024, themed “Developing Career and Further Study Plans.” This event took place at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Biology, UGM, attended by KSK Biogama members from various cohorts.
The speakers featured in this event were Basith Kuncoro Adji, S.Si., M.Sc. from the University of Birmingham, and Muhammad Arief Budhiman, S.Si. from Pertamina Foundation. They shared insights regarding their experiences after graduation, discussing topics related to further studies and career paths in environmentally focused industries. Their presentations included information on study pathways, career opportunities, and essential skills for Biology students.
The event involved guided group discussions organized by the committee. Participants were divided into small groups to create mind maps regarding their career or further study plans. These mind maps were required to encompass information on the skills needed, career objectives, and strategies to achieve them. This group discussion lasted for 30 minutes, during which participants actively exchanged ideas and visualized their thoughts through mind mapping.
Following the group discussions, each group presented their mind maps to the speakers and the audience. The speakers provided feedback and suggestions regarding the steps that could be taken to achieve their planned career or further study goals.
The event concluded with the presentation of mementos to the speakers in appreciation of their participation and the knowledge they shared, followed by a group photo session with all participants, both in-person and online.
The event concluded with the presentation of mementos to the speakers in appreciation of their participation and the knowledge they shared, followed by a group photo session with all participants, both in-person and online.
[Author: KSK]
Yogyakarta, 28 October 2025 – Faculty of Biology UGM held a guest lecture featuring a plant engineering expert from Okayama University Japan, Prof. Yoji Kawano. The lecture took place in the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology, UGM and was attended by students and lecturers from the Faculty of Biology, UGM.
Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Faculty of Biology, gave his speech at the guest lecture Monday (28/10) morning. He said that the Faculty of Biology welcomed Prof. Yoji and opened various research and academic collaboration potential with Okayama University, especially the Institute of Plant Science and Resources. Dr. Bambang also told students to gain as much knowledge as possible from the lecture.
Prof. Yoji Kawano is a Professor from the Plant Immune Design Group, Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University, Japan. His research focuses on plant pathology, immunobiology, inflammation, and phytopathology.
In this lecture, Prof. Yoji gave a presentation entitled “Deciphering Rice Immunity”. The lecture was guided by a lecturer from the Faculty of Biology from the Biochemistry Laboratory, Dr. Yekti Asih Purwestri, whose research also focuses on the development of rice plants.
Prof. Yoji explained about diseases in plants, especially rice, which are caused by fungi and how this condition is a concern in the agricultural world because of minimal information on interactions between plants and microbes. The professor, who is also an expert in plant engineering, conveyed his research which developed plant breeding using the R (NLR) gene. It is hoped that his various research efforts can contribute to applied agricultural science to obtain superior varieties that are resistant to various pest and disease threats.
The participants were enthusiastic about attending the lecture and were critical in the subsequent question and answer session. Through this public lecture, it is hoped that it can encourage innovation, especially for the academic community, in contributing to research on sustainable ecosystem preservation (SDG 4 and 15) through collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Okayama University (SDG 17).
Thursday, October 24, 2024, The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, held a Graduation Ceremony for the Postgraduate Program 2024/2025 period I at 01.00 p.m. The event was attended by the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., the Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources, Dr. Slamet Widianto, S.Si., M.Sc., the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., the Head of Master in Biology Study Program, Prof.Dr.rer.nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si., and the Head of Doctor in Biology Study Program, Prof. Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M.Eng. and thesis supervisor of the graduates. The ceremony was opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology Prof. Dr. Budi Setyadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., and followed by singing Indonesia Raya, Hymne Gadjah Mada, and Faculty of Biology March. The event continued with performances of the traditional dance “Sarikalayu” from Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta.
Then, the graduation report was delivered by the Head of the Master in Biology Study Program, Prof.Dr.rer.nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si.. Up to this period, the Postgraduate program of Biology UGM had graduated 138 doctoral students and 1764 master students. In the I Period of the Academic Year 2024/2025, there were two graduates for the doctoral program, Dr. Nadya Sofia Siti Sa’adah, S.Si., with cumlaude predicate, and Dr. Ainun Nikmati Layli, S.pd., M.Sc. with very good predicate. The average length of study was 3 years and 11 months and GPA of 3.95. There were 33 graduates for the master’s program with the highest GPA was 3.99.
Next, representatives of the graduates, Hayu Swari Allimi, S.Si., M.Sc., gave a speech. She expressed her gratitude to the parents, the lecturers, and all graduates for supporting their academic journey. She underscored that graduation is the beginning of a greater contribution to the field of study. As postgraduate alumni, they are expected to be leaders and solve issues in the country. She congratulated the graduates and wished their achievements would motivate them to make continuous contributions and advancements in science and technology.
The ceremony continued with a remark from the representative of the parents, Mr. Suyarto, S.T…, father of Hayu Swari Allimi, S.Si., M.Sc. He congratulated and praised the graduates for completing their studies with exceptional excellence. He extended heartfelt thanks to the faculty of biology, lecturers, and academic staff. He also reminded the graduates that their achievements are not the end of their educational journey. The path they have traveled has not been easy, but behind the difficulties, there are many opportunities for personal growth and the development of their mindset. Lastly, he expressed his hope that the lecturers would be blessed by Allah SWT for the knowledge they have imparted to the students.
The ceremony continued with a pin awarding as a sign of membership in the Faculty of Biology Family by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., represented by graduates Dr. Nadya Sofia Siti Sa’adah, S.Si., and Muhammad Rivaldi, S.Pd., M.Sc. Following that was a speech by the Dean, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. He congratulated the graduates and their parents. He expressed the faculty’s hope that the graduates would remain optimistic in contributing to the development of Indonesia Emas 2045. He also noted that not everyone, especially those as young as the present graduates, could complete their master’s or doctoral studies. In this period, the youngest doctoral graduate at UGM, aged 26, was from the Faculty of Biology, and thus the graduates should be grateful for their achievements. However, he reminded them not to be complacent but to continue their studies and professional pursuits.
He concluded his address with a poem: “The fruits of perseverance, patience, and strength have brought the graduates to this long-awaited day, a day that was once a dream. Families share in the pride, strengthened by the sincere prayers of parents. In the quiet of the night, prayers are offered without pause. The first step has been achieved. Strengthen the dreams and aspirations to be attained. Though change and challenges lie ahead, fear not, for you are well-prepared. Knowledge is action, and action must be guided by knowledge. To face change head-on and the dynamics of the times, clothed and embraced in comfort, nurturing one another with love and support. A spirit of togetherness is our strength. Together, we create the beauty of life. Welcome, graduates, to the family of Gadjah Mada University Alumni (KAGAMA).”
The event continued with a presentation of mementos from the graduates of Period I, Academic Year 2024/2025, represented by Giano Excelsis Pangemanan, S.Si., M.Sc., to the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM. The ceremony ended with a prayer by Mr. Sumarno, S.Si., M.Sc., and a group photo. [Author: KMP Biology]
Yogyakarta, 25 October 2025 – Faculty of Biology UGM held a guest lecture featuring a wildlife conservation expert from the Australian National University (ANU), Australia, Dr. George Olah. The lecture took place in the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology, UGM and was attended by students and lecturers from the Faculty of Biology, UGM.
“This is a good opportunity for ongoing collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Australian National University, Australia” Dr. Bambang Retnoaji as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs in his speech Friday (25/10). Dr. Bambang also did not forget to tell students to actively seek knowledge during the lecture.
Dr. George is a wildlife conservation expert from ANU’s Fenner School of Environment and Society. His research focuses on tropical ecology, genetic conservation, and conservation management, especially bird conservation. Dr. George is also involved in various conservation projects in Indonesia, one of which is the Indonesian Parrot Foundation.
Dr. George explained his lecture presentation with the title “The role of conservation genetics in the study of parrot conservation”. Ecologists and conservation experts convey the phylogeny of the parrot tree, to the status that some species are on the verge of extinction. The threat of extinction is caused by agricultural activities, hunting, deforestation, climate change, the presence of invasive species, and human activities that affect the existence of parrot. Another big threat is the rampant illegal trade in exotic birds. ASEAN and Indonesia itself are one of the locations where this illegal trade is rampant. Dr. George invited students to be aware and participate in efforts to overcome the illegal trade in wild animals through various conservation efforts and increasing public awareness.
The participants were enthusiastic about attending the lecture and were critical in the subsequent question and answer session. Through this public lecture, it is hoped that it can encourage innovation, especially for the academic community, in contributing to research on sustainable ecosystem preservation (SDG 4 and 15) through collaboration between the UGM Faculty of Biology and the Australian National University (SDG 17).
Bogor, October 23, 2024, A public consultation was held to discuss the Proposal for the Reinstatement of Protected Status for Aquatic Biota listed in the Ministry of Environment and Forestry Regulation (Permen LHK) No. P.106 of 2018. The event was organized by the Directorate General of Marine Spatial Management of the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) at the Luminor Hotel in Bogor, and attended by various stakeholders, experts, and representatives from relevant institutions. The consultation addressed the transition of authority over protected wildlife management from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) to the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP).
In this meeting, Dr. Amir Hamidy, M.Sc., Director of the Secretariat for Animal Conservation and Innovation (SKIKH), and Ir. Pingkan Katharina Roeroe, M.Si., Head of the Fish Species Protection and Conservation Team at the Directorate of Marine Conservation and Biodiversity, PRL Directorate General of KKP, served as the primary presenter. They emphasized the importance of re-evaluating Indonesia’s aquatic biota protection status. The presentation included policies aligned with legal developments and current conservation needs, particularly following Law No. 32 of 2024, an amendment to Law No. 5 of 1990 on Conservation of Living Natural Resources and Ecosystems.
A key topic discussed was the shift in management authority over protected wildlife from KLHK to KKP. Participants offered insights and recommendations to support a smooth and effective transition process. Dr. Rury Eprilurahman, representing the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), contributed significant input, emphasizing the need for clear species identification in state documents and effective management during inter-ministerial authority transfer. He highlighted that accurate identification and sustainable management are critical in protecting aquatic mammals and reptiles categorized as protected species.
The meeting concluded with a signed statement of agreement, which included critical points to guide further discussions regarding the transfer of authority and the management of protected species.
This event underscored the commitment of various parties to ensuring the sustainability of Indonesia’s marine and aquatic ecosystems, safeguarding protected aquatic species in compliance with current regulations.
The public consultation on the proposed revision of aquatic biota protection status also addressed several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 15: Life on Land, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Through this event, Indonesia demonstrated its commitment to achieving the SDGs, focusing on environmental conservation and the sustainable management of natural resources.
Yogyakarta, September 2024 — The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is proud to announce that 7 students from the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) class of 2022 have officially enrolled in the double degree program at Leeds University, United Kingdom, starting in the September 2024 academic period. This significant achievement highlights the Faculty’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality education with a global perspective./div>
The seven students—Ibar Kairan Massadiah, Nikita Magdalena Tambunan, Felicia Zefania Rumimper, Mohammad Ibrahim Zidni, Eleora Ajeng Haraito Siburian, Kezia Uenike, and Zephaniah Marceila Maelissa—have been selected to participate in this program, which enables them to earn dual degrees from both UGM and Leeds University./div>
The those students embarking on this academic journey have successfully met the rigorous selection criteria, showcasing academic excellence, adaptability, and a deep interest in expanding their global understanding of biological sciences. Their enrollment in the double degree program at Leeds University marks a milestone in their academic careers, allowing them to gain invaluable international exposure and broaden their expertise./div>
Through the double degree program, the students will spend part of their studies at Leeds University, where they will engage with renowned scholars and cutting-edge research in various fields of biology. Upon successful completion, they will earn degrees from both UGM and Leeds University, positioning them as global leaders in the field of biology and better preparing them for future challenges in research, industry, and academia./div>
Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology, UGM, expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments:
“This collaboration with Leeds University not only strengthens the internationalization efforts of the Faculty of Biology but also opens up greater opportunities for our students to experience world-class education. We are confident that our students will excel and bring positive contributions to both universities and the global scientific community.”/div>
“This collaboration with Leeds University not only strengthens the internationalization efforts of the Faculty of Biology but also opens up greater opportunities for our students to experience world-class education. We are confident that our students will excel and bring positive contributions to both universities and the global scientific community.”/div>
The double degree program aligns with the Faculty’s dedication to advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By fostering international partnerships and providing students with global academic exposure, the Faculty of Biology continues to play a crucial role in preparing future biologists to tackle global challenges, particularly in the areas of biodiversity and sustainability./div>
Leeds University, one of the top-ranked institutions in the UK, offers state-of-the-art facilities and research opportunities that will enrich the academic experience of UGM’s students. The partnership is a testament to UGM’s ongoing efforts to enhance academic collaboration and knowledge exchange between Indonesia and the global academic community./div>
The Faculty of Biology looks forward to witnessing the success stories that will emerge from this collaboration and continues to encourage its students to pursue international opportunities to elevate the quality and impact of biological sciences on a global scale.