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The Faculty of Biology UGM Held a training on Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Technique: Operation, Optimization, and Analysis

News Release Thursday, 15 August 2024

On August 13, 2024, the Faculty of Biology UGM held a training on PCR technique at the Teaching Laboratory in Building B of the Faculty of Biology. It was attended by 30 participants and aimed to enhance their basic literacy skills in molecular biology while providing essential knowledge of modern technologies in the field. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting quality education and ensuring access to fundamental services in scientific training.


The event opened by Mulyanto S.T., M.M., Head of the Administration Office of the Faculty of Biology UGM and committee chair. In his opening remarks, Mulyanto emphasized the importance of this training to enhance technical skills and research within the Faculty of Biology, which would advance the quality of laboratory facilities and support research services for faculty and students.

The training featured speakers Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., a lecturer at the Faculty of Biology UGM, and apt. Ign. Adi Kurniawan, M.Farm., Director of PT Kairos Jaya Sejahtera. They shared insights on the fundamental principles of PCR, a crucial technique in genetic research and diagnostics. The training included theoretical and practical sessions on operating PCR machines, optimizing reaction conditions, and effectively analyzing results. This hands-on experience intended to equip laboratory technicians with the skills to stay at the forefront of biotechnology and health advancements while improving the technical competencies needed for diverse research activities.

This training represents a significant step toward enhancing basic literacy skills and education in biotechnology, aligning with the commitment of the Faculty of Biology to provide skilled laboratory technicians ready to face future challenges. The event ran smoothly for a day and was followed by independent work assignments at each participant’s laboratory.

Faculty of Biology UGM Enhances Research Quality through Collaboration and Introduction of Laboratory Equipment at Thermo Fisher Singapore

CooperationNews Release Friday, 9 August 2024

Singapore, August 7, 2024 – In an effort to enhance the quality of education and research, the Faculty of Biology UGM, represented by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., and the Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources, Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, S.Si., M.Sc., conducted a visit to Singapore. The visit aimed to establish collaboration and demonstrate laboratory equipment at the Thermo Fisher Scientific Customer Experience Center (CEC) in Singapore. The event, which took place from August 5 to 6, 2024, was organized by PT Nutrilab Pratama in collaboration with Thermo Fisher Singapore.


The event began with a welcome and safety briefing by Yu Xuan TEH and Anthony LIM, Ph.D., who serve as Product Manager for Southeast Asia and Technical Sales Leader SEATW, Bioscience Division, Life Sciences, and Laboratory Products Group. This was followed by an in-depth presentation on the MSC Workflow by Zou Yu, who also serves as Product Manager for Southeast Asia, Bioscience Division, Life Sciences, and Laboratory Products Group. The first day’s agenda provided valuable insights into the latest laboratory technologies that can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of scientific research.

The second day commenced with a presentation on the Cell Counting Workflow (Countess 3 FL) by Yu Xuan TEH, followed by a presentation on the Cell Imaging Workflow (EVOS and CX7) by Xie Wei. The session continued with a presentation on bigfoot/attune/ALF delivered by Nicholas. The event concluded with a practical demonstration of the iWestern Workflow and a presentation on the Luminex multiplex assay by Tian Sheng at the CEC laboratory, offering hands-on experience in utilizing the latest laboratory technologies.

This visit is expected to be a positive first step in strengthening the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM, PT Nutrilab Pratama, and Thermo Fisher Singapore. This partnership demonstrates the commitment of the Faculty of Biology UGM to expanding connections and enhancing the quality of education through collaboration with various partners. This initiative aligns with the Faculty of Biology UGM’s efforts to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Additionally, this event supports SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), which emphasizes the importance of research with cutting-edge technology and innovation. The Faculty of Biology UGM hopes to adopt advanced laboratory technologies to improve research and teaching capacity, as well as strengthen UGM’s position as a leading educational institution in the field of biology. This visit underscores UGM’s commitment to advancing science and technology for the betterment of education and research in Indonesia.

Tamarind Seeds: A Promising Antivenoms for Deadly Calloselasma rhodostoma Snake Bites

AchivementsNews ReleaseStudent Activities Monday, 29 July 2024

The Averin team (Antivenom use Tamarind) from UGM discovered the potential of tamarind seeds (Tamarindus indica) as an alternative treatment for ground snake (Calloselasma rhodostoma) bites. This research was conducted by Oktaviani Nisa Hanafiah (Veterinary Medicine), Fauzela Azira Ainaya (Biology), Fani Nur Maftukhah (Pharmacy), Rahmadina Nur Azizah (Pharmacy), and Khansa Fortuna Putri (Veterinary Medicine). The research was funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek) and Universitas Gadjah Mada. It hoped that this support will help address the issues of access and cost of snake bite treatment.


“This research aims to provide a theoretical foundation and preclinical data on the effectiveness of T. indica seed extract against C. rhodostoma snake bites. The results of this study could contribute to alternative treatments, reducing mortality rates from C. rhodostoma bites in Indonesia,” said Oktaviani.

Oktaviani emphasized the importance and urgency of this research. “According to WHO data, Indonesia experiences around 135,000 snake bite cases annually, with a mortality rate of 5-10%. The C. rhodostoma snake is a significant cause of death in Java. However, the Antivenom Serum (SABU) for these snake bites is not widely available and remains expensive,” Oktaviani added.

The tamarind seed extract was tested in vivo against C. rhodostoma venom, showing that in the group treated with tamarind seed extract, the hemorrhagic area was significantly smaller compared to the group treated with snake venom alone. Therefore, T. indica shows promise as a new treatment for snake bites, especially for C. rhodostoma. Our dedication to this research drives us to continue exploring nature’s potential to enhance human life, Oktaviani stated. These findings were presented at the National Seminar on Tropical Biology (SNBT) on July 20, 2024. [Author: Fauzela Azira Ainaya]

Strengthening Cooperation and Collaboration on Biodegradable Plastics With PT Greenhope, Indonesia: A Lecturer of Faculty of Biology, UGM, Conducts Capstone Project Activities

News Release Sunday, 28 July 2024

The issue of waste is becoming increasingly critical, posing threats to environmental health on land, marrine, and air. Thus, there is a need for well-structured waste management mechanisms, supported by advanced technology, to tackle this challenge. One long-standing effort has been implementing the 3R+1R approach: Reuse, Recycle, and Reduce, with an addition of Return to Earth. This approach has been developed by PT Greenhope Indonesia. “Return to Earth” addresses a missing piece by offering biodegradable and biopolymer-based plastic solutions to combat plastic waste pollution and the climate crisis. This theme aligns with the research conducted by the Smart Genetics Research Group, led by Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., a lecturer in the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM).

From July 22-24, 2024, Ganies had the opportunity to collaborate with PT Greenhope Indonesia in the implementation of the Capstone Project Program from the University Quality Assurance and Reputation Unit. The Capstone Project allows faculty members to integrate and apply their expertise and competencies to solve industrial problems. The theme for this collaboration focused on a new breakthrough in biodegradable plastic products derived from Microbial Cell Factory, specifically recombinant yeast. Biodegradable plastics contribute significantly to environmental health and sustainability, especially in reducing the impact of plastic waste. They can replace conventional plastics in various applications, such as food packaging, product packaging, and laboratory equipment.

The activities began with discussions and presentations, conducted both online and offline at PT Greenhope’s office, laboratory, and factory. Additionally, direct observation of the production process for biodegradable products such as Oxium, Ecoplas, and Naturaloop from PT Greenhope was conducted. Ganies also explained the genetic transformation processes and methods developed to produce biodegradable plastics from recombinant yeast. Both parties agreed to pursue joint research activities, supported by an MoU and collaboration proposal. Ganies expressed hope that this collaboration will continue to grow, producing sustainable, environmentally friendly, and forward-looking products. Representing PT Greenhope, Dr. Hardaning Pranamuda, M.Sc., Director of R&D, along with two researchers, Muhammad Ardiyansyah, S.Si., and Ir. Daffa Dewa Saputra, S.T., welcomed the collaboration with enthusiasm and commitment to mutual contribution. Research and development of biodegradable plastics can significantly contribute to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in efforts to reduce the impact of plastic waste on the environment and human health, said Hardaning during the closing of the discussion session.

In addition to its significant contribution to solving waste problems, this activity aligns with the achievement and implementation of several SDGs: SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Biodegradable plastics help meet the SDG 12 target related to waste reduction and hazardous material management. SDG 14: Life Below Water. Biodegradable plastics can reduce the impact of plastic waste on marine ecosystems and promote environmental health. SDG 15: Life on Land. Biodegradable plastics can help reduce the impact of plastic waste on terrestrial ecosystems, such as reducing soil and air pollution and promoting environmental health. SDG 13: Climate Action. Biodegradable plastics can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production and disposal of conventional plastics. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Research and development of biodegradable plastics can boost innovation and provide new opportunities for a more sustainable plastics processing industry.

Training and Competency Test for Orchid Planting Practitioners Successfully Held at UGM Biotechnology Competency Test Center

News Release Saturday, 27 July 2024

Yogyakarta, July 25, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) successfully conducted training in Orchid Cultivation and a competency test for Orchid Planting Practitioners qualification. The Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., officially opened the training on July 22, 2024. The training had 16 attendees, while the competency test saw participation from 22 individuals hailing from different regions across Indonesia, comprising academics, practitioners, alumni, and students. The event successfully enhanced the participants’ knowledge and skills in orchid cultivation.


The intensive three-day training, from July 22 to 24, 2024, focused on orchid planting techniques, from preparing planting media to caring for mature plants. The training materials were presented by orchid experts, including Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc., and Aries Bagus Sasongko from the Faculty of Biology UGM, Dr. Ixora Sartika Mercuriani from Yogyakarta State University, and Eniek Sulistyanti, an experienced orchid practitioner. The training covers theoretical and practical sessions on planting bottled orchid seedlings, repotting, grading, sorting orchids, and post-harvest handling of orchids. The training was a collaboration between the Laboratory of Biotechnology Faculty of Biology UGM and Orchid Enthusiasts Association (PAI) DPD DIY.

“This training aims to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills in orchid cultivation, thus contributing to the development of the orchid industry in Indonesia,” said Prof. Dr. Budi during the opening ceremony.

After the training, participants took the competency test held at the Biotechnology Competency Test Center, Faculty of Biology UGM, on July 25, 2024, with assessors from the National Agriculture Professional Certification Agency (LSP) Malang, Drs. Surini Santosa, M.Si., Ari Setyowati, M.P, and Drs. Kaswan Badami, M.Si. The exam assesses participants’ competencies, consisting of 24 competency units required by orchid planting practitioners. Coordinator of the Biotechnology Competency Test Center, Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc., welcomed the enthusiasm of the competency test participants, marking the first batch for Orchid Planting Practitioner competency at the Biotechnology Competency Test Center, Faculty of Biology UGM.

“Competency certification is important for orchid cultivation business actors, as it can enhance the competitiveness of their products in the market,” said Drs. Surini Santoso, M.Si., in his speech as Director of the LSP Agriculture Malang. The Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs officially opened the Competency Test. He stated, “Besides the competency for Orchid Planting Practitioners, the Biotechnology Competency Test Center also holds Competency Tests for other competencies such as Plant Tissue Culture and invites participants to take the competency test scheduled for late 2024.”

The competency test results announced on Thursday afternoon showed that all participants were recommended as competent. Responding to the recommendations, all participants were happy and hoped to continue orchid cultivation activities in their respective places. (A.B. Sasongko)

Contributing to Increasing Biosecurity Innovation and Biodiversity Conservation, Faculty of Biology UGM Holds the 8th National Seminar on Tropical Biology

CooperationHeadline Tuesday, 23 July 2024

Yogyakarta, 20 July 2024 — The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held the 8th National Seminar on Tropical Biology (SNBT) on 20 July 2024. This year, the seminar was held in a hybrid with “Biosecurity Innovation and Tropical Biodiversity Conservation” theme. This event, which was held at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Biology, aims to provide a platform for academics, researchers, practitioners and students to discuss current issues and innovative solutions in biosecurity and biodiversity conservation in tropical regions. This seminar activity began with a report from Dr. Siti Nurbaiti as chair of the 2024 SNBT Committee, followed by remarks by Prof. Dr. Mirwan Ushada, Director of Research representing the Rector of UGM and opened by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono. M.Agr.Sc., as Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM. This seminar was attended by around 100 participants from 21 institutions in Indonesia. On this occasion, an MoU was also signed between the Faculty of Biology UGM and PT. Rentokil Indonesia. It is hoped that this collaboration can be a form of synergy between academics and industry, especially regarding the issue of biosecurity and Indonesian biodiversity.


As the first keynote speaker, Ir. Medrilzam from BAPPENAS raised the topic “The Role of Government Policy for Biodiversity Conservation”. In his presentation, Ir. Medrilzam delivered the Indonesian Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (IBSAP), the Indonesian government’s strategy for preserving biodiversity, and how these policies are expected to shape people’s behavior towards a positive nature.

As the second speaker, Drs. Heri Susanto from PT. Rentokil Indonesia discussed “The Role of Biological Science and Digital Technology in Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Pest Control”. In this session, Drs. Heri Susanto conveyed the exploration of the integration of biological science with digital technology to develop pest control methods that are more effective and environmentally friendly.

The third speaker, Mrs. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, Ph.D. delivered material on “The Role of Fungi in Biosecurity and Biodiversity Conservation”. The focus of this discussion is the role of fungi as biosecurity agents in maintaining biodiversity, as well as how fungi can be used in conservation efforts.

The plenary session of the three speakers was enlivened with questions from seminar participants ranging from biodiversity protection related to infrastructure developments to opportunities for food source options with high nutrition from the variety of diversity that Indonesia has to meet food needs and in terms of handling. pest. The seminar activities were continued with parallel sessions filled with presentations by the participant speakers on various research titles, which were carried out offline and online.

The 8th SNBT in 2024 was closed by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs. In his closing remarks, he said that SNBT is a forum for increasing understanding of biosecurity and tropical biodiversity conservation through in-depth discussions with experts in the field, thereby inspiring innovation and collaboration between academics, researchers and practitioners in efforts to protect biodiversity, encourage policy development and new strategies that can be implemented to preserve the environment and support the sustainability of tropical ecosystems. It is also hoped that this national seminar will create synergistic cooperation between the participants who attend, which is expected to be a positive thing that can build and provide more impact regarding issues related to the topic of biosecurity and tropical biodiversity conservation in the future. Furthermore, this seminar plays a role in implementing several points of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s): 2. Zero hunger, 3. Good health and well-being, 4. Quality education, 6. Access to clean water and sanitation, 7. Affordable and clean and energy, 9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 11. Sustainable cities and communities, 13. Climate change action, 14. Maintaining marine ecosystems, 15. Maintaining land ecosystems and 17. Partnerships for the goals.

Highlighting on High Incidence of Stunting in Indonesia UGM Biology Students Win Silver Medals in International Essay Competition

AchivementsNews ReleaseStudent Activities Monday, 22 July 2024

The CEREALGAE team from The Faculty of Biology UGM, led by Hana Salwa (Biology 2022) along with Irfan Agus Nugroho (Biology 2021), successfully won a Silver Medal Quartile at the Agritech Research and Entrepreneurship Innovation (AGREETION) 2024 competition. The AGREETION 2024 is an international scientific paper and business plan competition organized by the Agritech Research and Study Club (ARSC) of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Brawijaya, with the theme ‘’Accelerating Agriculture and Agro-Industry Towards Sustainable Welfare with Eco-Friendly and Clean Production Principles.’’ Forty two universities from 3 countries participated in this competition that was held online from April 20 to June 1, 2024.


The team presented an essay titled “CEREALGAE: Cereal Formulation Based on Brown Algae (Sargassum sp.) Fortified with Moringa Leaves as a Food Diversification Strategy to Prevent Stunting.” The essay was motivated by the high stunting incidence in Indonesia. Aligned with the government’s efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) No 2, which aims to end hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition, along with the “Gerakan Nasional (GerNas)” program, food diversification can be a preventive measure to ensure that toddlers receive proper nutrition. One approach to achieving this goal is to optimize the utilization of natural ingredients, such as Sargassum sp. and moringa leaves, as functional food ingredients.

Sargassum sp. is a type of brown algae with high abundance and contains macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and several micronutrients. The protein in Sargassum sp. can aid in cell regeneration during growth and repair, making it recommended for children’s growth phases. Fortifying food with moringa leaf powder can increase the protein, zinc, iron, calcium, and magnesium content. Moringa leaf powder contains about 27.1 g of protein, making it an excellent alternative to animal protein. A study indicates that moringa leaf fortification can significantly increase toddler weight and reduce acute nutrient deficiencies two months after consumption. The Indonesian society’s tendency to consume instant or fast food prompted the biology student team to create a functional food innovation in the form of cereal made from Sargassum sp. and moringa leaves. This innovation is expected to be one solution to reduce the prevalence of stunting in Indonesia through functional food diversification utilizing natural ingredients. Author: Kamilia Hana Salwa.

The SilkWorm MBKM Research Team from the Faculty of Biology UGM visits Omah JAMTRA, Wates, Kulon Progo, DIY.

HeadlineStudent Activities Friday, 12 July 2024

Yogyakarta, June 1, 2024- The Independent Learning Independent Campus (MBKM) 2024 Research Team from the Faculty of Biology, under the supervision of Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., with the project titled “DNA Barcoding of the Wild SilkWorm Samia sp. Boisduval, in Yogyakarta,” made their first visit to their research partner, Jantra Mas Sejahtera, also known as Omah JAMTRA in Wates, Kulon Progo, DI Yogyakarta. This visit was attended by two members of the research team, Saifa Salwa Arrahma and Irenna Sheva Zahrani, along with their mentor, Siti Shofa Assyifa’ul Qulbi Barid, S.Si., M.Sc. The visit aimed to introduce the partner organization and to enhance the team knowledge regarding the Samia cultivation and species in Yogyakarta, identify superior Samia strains, and strengthen cooperation with JAMTRA.


The event began with an introduction by Mr. Yunianto Hargo Nugroho, S.Hut., the head of Omah JAMTRA. He explained the cultivation of Samia and the history of Omah JAMTRA. He shared his expertise and experience in Samia silkworm cultivation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the morphology of silkworms to avoid errors in morphological data collection. Pak Anto showcased the first instar larvae of Samia currently being cultivated and explained the metamorphosis process of the silkworms, as well as the environmental factors that need to be controlled for successful cultivation. He underlined the key factors in Samia silkworm cultivation, including jatropha leaves as feed, maintaining appropriate temperatures, and ensuring the cleanliness of the rearing cages.

The visit also included a discussion regarding silkworm cultivation at Omah JAMTRA and the research conducted by the team. The MBKM Research collaboration with JAMTRA is expected to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) specifically: No Poverty, Quality Education, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and Partnerships for the Goals.

UGM Students Empower Sompok Village Women to Process Fruit Peel Waste into Eco Enzymes.

News ReleaseWaste Management Thursday, 11 July 2024

Wednesday, July 10, 2024, The Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) proudly announces an event titled “Workshop on Eco Enzymes Production from Fruit Peel Waste.” This activity is part of the Community Service Program (KKN) coordinated by Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., a lecturer at the Faculty of Biology, UGM, and led by Rizquita Brillianti, a student from the Faculty of Biology, UGM. The workshop took place at the SSB Pavilion in Dusun Sompok, Sriharjo. The workshop was attended by 20 participants from the Sompok Women Farmers Group (KWT) and the village head, Mrs. Nur Latifah.


The workshop is designed to teach the Women Farmers Group to transform fruit peel waste into eco enzymes. Eco enzymes could reduce the reliance on chemical products in daily activities, promoting eco-friendly products to decrease environmental pollution. This objective aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs No.3 on Good Health and Well-being, SDGs No.6 on Clean Water and Sanitation, SDGs No.7 on Affordable and Clean Energy, and SDGs No.12 on Responsible Consumption and Production. It is hoped that the Women Farmers Group will obtain new knowledge and support the efforts to preserve the environment sustainably.

Buddy Counselor Training for New Student Assistance

News Release Monday, 8 July 2024

On Friday (5/7), the Health Promoting University (HPU) team and Faculty Counselors Faculty of Biology UGM Counselors organized a training session for Buddy Counselors to prepare their skills for assisting new students in 2024. This year’s Buddy Counselor team is the second cohort following the establishment of the peer counselor team, called Buddy Counselors, by the HPU team and Faculty of Biology Counselors last year.


The Buddy Counselor 2024 team consists of 28 active students who received training and inaugurated on May 20, 2024. The training session was guided by Yudhistira Adi Perdana, M.Psi., a psychologist from the Faculty of Biology UGM . This activity is part of the HPU Faculty of Biology’s work program, chaired by Titin Fauziah, SE., MBA. The Buddy Counselors supported by the Faculty Psychologist and assisted by Faculty Counselors, including Dwi Umi Siswanti, S.Si., M.Sc., Dr. rer. nat. Abdul Rachman Siregar, M.Biotech., and Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si.

The Buddy Counselors received training in active listening skills, life goal mapping, and practical sessions in active listening. This team will work alongside the PPSMB Faculty of Biology guides in assisting the 2024 new student cohort. The Buddy Counselor program is the first of its kind in the Faculty of Biology, aimed at helping new students adapt to their new environment, academic life, and all its intricacies. The team provides academic orientation and tracking the mental health of new students to minimize risks throughout their studies at the Faculty of Biology UGM.

“Active listening begins with our willingness to listen to the counselee’s story, paraphrasing, summarizing, clarifying, and providing support. We should focus on the counsellee,” explained Yudhis. “We hope that this new student assistance program becomes a tradition in our faculty, helping new students smoothly transition from high school to university life,” expressed Titin in her remarks. This assistance also facilitates the Faculty Counselors’ efforts in identifying mental health issues early and preparing measures to prevent self-harm and suicide.