Student Activities

Arsip:

Farewell of Student Exchange Students for Odd Semester of Academic Year 2024/2025 Faculty of Biology UGM

News Release Student Activities Tuesday, 17 December 2024

Yogyakarta, December 13, 2024 – Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a farewell event for Student Exchange Program students on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Bong O Bong Grill, Gejayan. The event was attended by the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., Head of Undergraduate Study Program Sukirno, M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of International Undergraduate Program, Nur Indah Septriani, M.Sc., Ph.D., Manager of Office of International Affairs, Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.S., Ph.D., several representatives of lecturers, namely Mrs. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., Dr. Miftahul Ilmi, M.Sc., and Mukhlish Jamal Musa Holle M.Env.Sc, D.Phil., and some academic staff.

The event was opened by the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., who in his speech expressed his high appreciation to the students who had participated in this exchange program. He emphasized the importance of international experience as a strategic step for academic and personal development, as well as broadening students’ global horizons.

The Head of the Undergraduate Study Program Sukirno, M.Sc., Ph.D., on this occasion hoped that this student exchange program could continue to be implemented in the future, providing greater benefits for students and strengthening academic relations between universities in various countries.

The event took place in a warm and lively atmosphere, where one of the representatives of the exchange students, Nur Asma’ binti Mohd Asri, expressed her gratitude in Javanese for the opportunity given through this program.

This year, the Faculty of Biology UGM accepted 11 exchange students from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, and Toyo University. This program is a real proof of the efforts of the Faculty of Biology UGM in strengthening international networks and opening wider learning opportunities for students. The Faculty of Biology UGM hopes that cooperation with international universities will continue and grow, providing benefits for all parties involved. [Aulia]

Year-End Evaluation and Member Deliberation of Formasigen 2024

Student Activities Monday, 16 December 2024

On Friday, December 13, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM WIB, the Year-End Evaluation and Member Deliberation of Formasigen were held at the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, UGM. The activity was attended by Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., the Formasigen supervisor, the 2024 Formasigen team, and prospective members of the 2025 Formasigen team. This event served as a platform to review the Formasigen Bylaws and Articles of Association (AD/ART), evaluate the performance over the past year, and conduct a member deliberation to elect the 2025 Formasigen Chair. The objectives included updating the AD/ART based on recent agreements, monitoring the work programs carried out by the GenomCity Cabinet, identifying challenges encountered throughout the management period, providing constructive feedback and recommendations for program improvement, enhancing the quality of future work programs, and determining the next Formasigen Chair.

The event began with an opening by the MC, Enjang Sekaryati Prasetyaningrum, who served as the Head of the Public Relations and Networking Division of the 2024 GenomCity Cabinet. This was followed by a review of the AD/ART led by the first presidium, Muhammad Sena Budiman, and the second presidium, Ihsanti Tsania Fajriati. During this session, articles in the AD/ART were reviewed and updated to align with current conditions and ensure relevance for future management periods. After this session, there was a break for prayer, lunch, and rest.

The activity continued with the Year-End Evaluation and Member Deliberation. Before starting this session, remarks were delivered by Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., who expressed gratitude to the 2024 Formasigen management team for fulfilling their responsibilities well. She also emphasized that the evaluations presented during this session should serve as valuable lessons for the next management team. Furthermore, she extended her encouragement and congratulations to the candidates for the 2025 Formasigen Chair and management team. Following the remarks, presentations were conducted by the heads of each division to report on the work programs implemented throughout the year, along with evaluations and suggestions for improvement. The presentation began with the Chair, followed by the Secretary and Treasurer, and continued with the heads of the PSDM (Human Resources Development), Scientific, Household, Public Relations and Networking, and Media and Information Divisions.

The event then proceeded with the 2024 Member Deliberation. This session included the introduction and presentation of visions and missions by the candidates for the 2025 Formasigen Chair, Denianto Agung Wicaksono, Muhammad Meshal Ramdhayesa, and Muhammad Rafi Fairuza. A question-and-answer session was held with the 2024 Formasigen team and the prospective 2025 team. Subsequently, a deliberation was conducted to elect the chair. The announcement of the elected 2025 Formasigen Chair, Denianto Agung Wicaksono, followed, along with the handover of responsibilities from the 2024 Chair to the 2025 Chair. The event concluded with a documentation session and a closing. [Author: Formasigen]

Students of the Faculty of Biology UGM Presented “Long-read Sequencing Technology Innovation for Molecular Detection of Hereditary Diseases” at the 2024 InaSHG Conference

News Release Student Activities Thursday, 28 November 2024

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.

Faculty of Biology Research Day 2024: From Molecule to Biosphere

News Release Student Activities Thursday, 14 November 2024

Yogyakarta, November 13, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) proudly presents Research Day 2024, an event aimed at disseminating research and community service outcomes while showcasing the latest advancements in biology to the public. With the theme From Molecule to Biosphere, the event highlighted the vital role of biological sciences in human life, encompassing studies from the molecular scale to ecosystem dynamics.

The first day of Research Day 2024 began with the opening ceremony. Dr. Ririn Tri Nurhayati, S.IP., M.Si., M.A., Head of the Research Program Sub-Directorate at UGM’s Directorate of Research, attended the event and praised Research Day 2024 as an effective platform for technology transfer to society, supported by mini workshops featuring advanced scientific instruments. The event was officially opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., who expressed his hopes that Research Day 2024 would deepen scientific knowledge, strengthen interdisciplinary collaborations, and introduce biological innovations to academics and practitioners alike. As part of the Faculty’s Dies Natalis (anniversary) celebrations, Research Day 2024 was supported by partners including CV Dynata Image Creative, IGF Faculty of Biology, PT Ditek Jaya, PT Indolab Utama, PT Nutrilab Pratama, PT Wadya Prima Mulia, and Elo Karsa Utama.

On the first day, the theme of Molecular Biology took center stage in two focused workshop sessions. The first session introduced participants to the Promega Maxwell Automated DNA/RNA Extraction system and DNA quality control using the Agilent TapeStation. These tools are critical for ensuring the accuracy of molecular-level research.

The second session delved into Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) Sequencing and Metabarcoding Data Analysis, exploring cutting-edge methods for sequencing and metabarcoding to analyze microbiome compositions and identify organisms at the molecular level.

Mastery of molecular biology technologies is essential for addressing challenges in health, environmental science, and agriculture. These techniques enable researchers to identify pathogenic microorganisms rapidly, gain insights into the genetics of specific species, and precisely map ecosystems. Such applications support solutions across scales, from cellular processes to ecosystem dynamics.

Participants had the opportunity to engage directly with experts and practitioners from UGM’s partners. Additionally, several leading laboratories within the Faculty of Biology, such as the Microbiology Laboratory and the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, provided hands-on experiences, enriching the practical knowledge of attendees.

With its overarching theme From Molecule to Biosphere, the first day of Research Day 2024 underscored the critical role of biology in building a comprehensive understanding of life—from cellular metabolism to ecosystem interactions. The Faculty of Biology at UGM hopes this event will continue to drive scientific progress and promote technological applications across various sectors of life.

[Written by the Research Day Committee]

The Marine Study Group(KSK) Kopdar Alumni 2024

News Release Student Activities Tuesday, 29 October 2024

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.

[Author: KSK]

The Biology Student Research Team Wins Silver Medal at the 3rd International Conference of Biological Science (ICoBioS) 2024

Achivements Student Activities Tuesday, 29 October 2024

Biology students at Universitas Gadjah Mada made another achievement by winning a silver medal at the 3rd International Conference of Biological Sciences (ICoBioS) 2024. The conference, held by Universitas Brawijaya on September 27-28, 2024, had the theme “Recent Update in Bioinformatics, Synthetic Biology, and Nanobio Science for Better Future.” This success strengthens UGM’s standing in the international scientific community, particularly in driving innovation and progress in modern biological sciences. This achievement was achieved by Thoriq Abdul Halim, Tiara Putria Judith, and Salfa Athallah Agtari Nabillah students from the 2021 cohort, under the guidance of Dr. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., presented research titled “Comparative Analysis of DNA Barcodes Based on Nuclear and Chloroplast Genes for Phylogenetic Reconstruction of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) in Java Island.”

In their presentation, the team discussed the importance of sugarcane (S. officinarum L.) production, which contributes to 80% of global sugar production. Despite Java Island supplying 61% of the national output, Indonesia only produced 2.23 million tons of sugar in 2019, while imports reached 5.46 million tons in 2021, mainly from Thailand. The low sugarcane yield is due to the narrowing of genetic diversity caused by domestication. Given the complexity of the genome and the difficulty in distinguishing morphological characteristics, the team utilized DNA barcoding techniques to analyze genetic variation in nuclear DNA and chloroplast DNA of sugarcane. This research aims to identify intra- and interspecific genetic variation among sugarcane cultivars as part of efforts to improve varietal identification, agricultural productivity, and food security in Indonesia.

The theme and goals of this research align with UGM’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs No.2 on ending hunger and enhancing food security, and SDGs No.12, which focuses on sustainable production and consumption through efforts to increase sugarcane productivity and reduce dependence on sugar imports in Indonesia.

BiOSC Stadium Genarale 2.0: Orchid Identification through Flower Dissection to Support Orchid Conservation in Indonesia

Student Activities Monday, 28 October 2024

The Biology Orchid Study Club (BiOSC) of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held its second Studium Generale event titled “Orchid Identification through Flower Dissection to Support Orchid Conservation in Indonesia” on Saturday, October 19, 2024, in Room 2, Building B, Faculty of Biology as part of scientific coordinators work programs, Akmal Bunyamin. The event was attended by 37 participants and aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills, and motivate members in orchid identification using flower dissection to support orchid conservation efforts in Indonesia.

The session featured a presentation by Ms. Aninda Retno Utami Wibowo, S.Si., M.Sc., a researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) specializing in biosystematics, who led participants through a detailed, step-by-step guide to identifying new orchid species. Following the theoretical presentation, participants engaged in hands-on dissection practice, where each member received an orchid flower to examine. They were tasked with identifying, measuring, and meticulously documenting various flower parts, highlighting distinguishing characteristics among different orchid species.

The event proceeded smoothly with enthusiastic participation, including an interactive discussion session between attendees and the speaker. The Studium Generale aims to deepen participants’ understanding of orchid identification processes and flower dissection techniques, fostering the scientific knowledge and commitment necessary to contribute to orchid conservation efforts in Indonesia.
Written by: BiOSC

UGM Faculty of Biology MBKM Research Team Actively Participates in ICOBIOS X OBC 2024 International Conference at Brawijaya University to Support the Development of Environmentally Friendly Bioinsecticides

News Release Student Activities Thursday, 24 October 2024

The MBKM Research Team from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), consisting of Fanny Najmi Faza and Syafa Erista Hidayah, actively participated in the ICOBIOS X OBC 2024 international conference, organized by the Indonesian Biology Generation (INBIO-Indonesia) at Brawijaya University, Malang, on September 28-29, 2024.

ICOBIOS is an international forum that brings together researchers, academics, and practitioners from various countries to exchange ideas and the latest discoveries in biological sciences. This year, ICOBIOS X OBC 2024 adopted the theme “Recent Updates in Bioinformatics, Synthetic Biology, and Nanobio Science for a Better Future,” aiming to explore innovations in bioinformatics, synthetic biology, and nanobio science. Through seminars, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive scientific competitions, participants are able to deepen their knowledge and expand their professional networks, fostering future collaborations.

At this event, the MBKM Team presented their research under the guidance of Dr. Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung from UGM’s Faculty of Biology and Dr. Didik Huswo Utomo from INBIO-Indonesia. Their research focused on screening 10 species of Citrus plants in Indonesia, including Kaffir lime (Citrus hystrix), Key lime (Citrus aurantifolia), Mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata), Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis), Pomelo (Citrus maxima), and Lemon (Citrus limon), known to contain volatile compounds capable of disrupting the olfactory system of mosquitoes and even causing their death.

This research aims to identify the most effective citrus species in controlling Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the vector of Dengue Fever, using an in silico approach. The results indicate that among the 10 species, four citrus plants—C. hystrix, C. aurantifolia, C. reticulata, and C. limon—show the greatest potential as bioinsecticide agents due to their high levels of the volatile compound Terpinen-4-ol, which strongly interacts with the mosquito odor receptor protein (Ace-1).

These findings are expected to support the development of environmentally friendly bioinsecticide products that can be applied by the public, reducing the use of conventional chemical insecticides that contribute to environmental pollution. Additionally, this research contributes to several targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. This research strengthens collaboration between academics, researchers, and practitioners to develop sustainable, nature-based solutions for public health challenges.

7 Students from Faculty of Biology UGM Enroll in Double Degree Program at Leeds University

News Release Student Activities Tuesday, 22 October 2024

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>

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.

Faculty of Biology UGM Students Participate in the Indonesia Marine Debris Social Issue Resident Participation Awareness Improvement Capacity Building Project

News Release Student Activities Monday, 14 October 2024

Five students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, namely Maidira Marsa Rabbani, Laras Ati, Dinda Luthfiani Nurul Ulya, Manika Rosalia Lysander, and Raja Steve Sudjatmiko Panggabean, joined representatives from the Vocational School, the Faculty of Economics and Business, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, and the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, UGM, to participate in discussions and training on marine debris management in the event titled “Indonesia Marine Debris Social Issue Resident Participation Awareness Improvement Capacity Building Project.” In addition to the students, this one-week event (October 14-18, 2024) was also attended by leaders and lecturers from the Vocational School, heads and staff from the UGM Directorate of Community Service (DPKM), and one of the Faculty of Biology’s lecturers, Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. Eng., who is also a member of the KKN-PPM UGM taskforce and RCE Yogyakarta.

This event is part of a multipartite collaboration between the Vocational School, RCE Yogyakarta (under the Directorate of Community Service at UGM), RCE Tongyeong, and the Gyeongnam International Development Cooperation Center (GNIDCC) of Gyeongsang National University, South Korea. The project focuses on raising awareness and building the capacity of local communities in managing marine debris in Yogyakarta.

One of the programs carried out was training and capacity-building activities involving the communities of Karangwuni Village and Bugel Village, Kulonprogo, D.I. Yogyakarta. This project aims to raise community awareness and knowledge about the impact of marine debris and how to manage it effectively. The event also includes seminars, workshops, and community training as part of the efforts to strengthen commitment to Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and better environmental management. This collaboration will not stop here but will continue with further training involving local residents and village leaders. The program will discuss concrete solutions to the marine debris problem in Yogyakarta and will involve more participants from various backgrounds.

This cooperation is also part of UGM’s commitment to supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of education, community empowerment, and the environment. This activity supports several SDGs, including SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. By engaging collaboration between various institutions, both local and international, this project aims to create a significant impact on marine debris management.

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