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UGM Faculty of Biology Participates in AgriFest 2024: Showcasing 18 Innovations for National Food Security

News Release Monday, 9 September 2024

Yogyakarta, September 7, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) actively participated in the “Technology Innovation Exhibition of the Agrocomplex Faculties of Universitas Gadjah Mada,” held as part of AgriFest 2024. The event, which took place from September 5 to 7, 2024, was themed “Adapting to the Era of Technological Disruption in the Agricultural Sector to Achieve National Food Security” and was organized by the Pusat Inovasi Agroteknologi (PIAT) UGM.


During the exhibition, the UGM Faculty of Biology showcased 18 products and services resulting from research conducted by its faculty members. These products and services include a variety of innovations aimed at supporting national food security, ranging from biotechnology, plant breeding products, laboratory consultation services, to environmentally friendly ecological solutions. The Faculty of Biology’s participation in this event demonstrates its significant contribution to the adaptation of agricultural technology in the current era of disruption.

The exhibition was attended by curated academics from UGM and was open to various groups, including agricultural practitioners, representatives from local governments, academics, industry players, agricultural entrepreneurs, millennial farmers, and farmer group representatives. Over the three-day event, the exhibition attracted more than 1,000 visitors, highlighting the high level of interest from various stakeholders in technological innovations in the agricultural sector (SDG 2, SDG 9, SDG 12).

The involvement of the UGM Faculty of Biology in AgriFest 2024 not only introduced innovative research outcomes but also opened up opportunities for collaboration with various stakeholders, including those from academia, industry, and government. The Faculty of Biology at UGM hopes that through its participation, it can further strengthen its contribution to the development of agricultural technology, ultimately supporting the achievement of national food security in the future (SDG 17).

AgriFest 2024 has proven to be an effective platform for connecting technological innovations with relevant practitioners and stakeholders, fostering synergies in the effort to achieve national food security in this era of technological disruption (SDG 2).

UGM Faculty of Biology and HKTI Discuss Research Collaboration on Porang Development

News Release Wednesday, 28 August 2024

Yogyakarta, August 27, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a discussion with the Indonesian Farmers Association (Himpunan Kerukunan Tani Indonesia, HKTI) to explore research collaboration on the development of downstream porang products. The meeting took place on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM in the KPTU Meeting Room at the UGM Faculty of Biology, with the participation of HKTI representative Mr. Pahotan Sitonang.


The discussion focused on the significant potential of porang (Amorphophallus muelleri) as a strategic commodity for enhancing farmer welfare and national food security. Porang, a type of tuber widely grown in tropical regions, including Indonesia, is well-known for its high glucomannan content, which has various applications, particularly in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Glucomannan from porang is often used as a base ingredient for products such as flour and as a thickening and binding agent in various products. Mr. Sitonang emphasized the importance of optimizing porang development and highlighted how UGM’s Faculty of Biology could be a strategic partner in achieving these goals, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

From UGM’s Faculty of Biology, the discussion was attended by lecturers Prof. Dr. Purnomo; Aries Bagus Sasongko, S.Si., M.Biotech.; and Dr. Eng. Thoriq Teja Samudra, S.Si., M.Sc., along with educational staff members Eka Mega Sampurna, A.Md., and Annisa Mawarni, S.Si. During the meeting, UGM expressed its commitment to supporting porang development through research in tissue culture and the preservation of superior in-vitro cultured seeds. The research aims to produce high-quality porang varieties and ensure the sustainable availability of seeds for farmers, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

This collaboration aims not only to increase the productivity and quality of porang but also to strengthen Indonesia’s position in the global market as a leading producer of high-quality porang. UGM’s Faculty of Biology and HKTI are committed to accelerating the downstream application of research findings, so that the benefits can be quickly realized by farmers and the broader community.

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.

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.