On Friday, 21st of March 2025 at 1-2.30 PM, Gentalk 4 was held in the Laboratory of Genetics and Breeding, Faculty of Biology UGM. This program is targeted for all Formasigen members and Biology UGM students in general. Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., as Formasigen’s supervisor lecturer, also attended this program. Gentalk is an active discussion and sharing session between alumni or senior student and Formasigen’s member about the undergraduate thesis they are working on. In this Gentalk edition, the speaker is Laura Silka Karawina Rokhmat, Faculty of Biology UGM students batch 2021 under the supervision of Prof. Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D for her undergraduate thesis.

This program started with an opening from the Master of Ceremony, Ghefira Nurrahima Tsuraya, as a part of the Public Relation Division of HomeoGenesis Cabinet, followed by an opening speech by Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. as the supervisor lecturer of Formasigen. The next activity is a presentation about “Genetic Variation Northern Calling Fiddler Crab, Gelasimus Borealis (Crane, 1975), from Kulon Progo, D.I.Yogyakarta Using 16s rRNA Mitochondrial Gene”. In this session, she shares about identification methods and genetic variation analysis of Northern Calling Fiddler Crab, Gelasimus Borealis, using 16s rRNA mitochondrial gene. After that, is the Q&A session followed by closing from the master of ceremony. Through Gentalk, we hoped that this could be a good start to create a vessel for an interesting and beneficial discussion. We also hope that this program can give a better understanding about all the research done by all the lecturers and their students in the Laboratory of Genetics and Breeding, Faculty of Biologi UGM. This research also hoped to help actualize the 15^th Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that is Life On Land.

On Sunday, 9^th of March 2025, Open House Formasigen 2025 was held in the Auditorium of Tropical Biology, Faculty of Biology, UGM. This event was held for all Formasigen’s members, study group and organisation delegates, and all faculty of biology’s students. This event was attended by Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., as Formasigen’s supervisor lecturer. Open House Formasigen 2025 is aimed to introduce the cabinet’s ministry and program for the following year to all related student organisations, especially organisation of Faculty of Biology UGM. Beside that, this event also used to open a discussion forum and partnership opportunity with external organisation. This event had 2 main session that are program socialisation of HomeoGenesis cabinet and talkshow from alumni.

The event was started by socialisation of this cabinet’s fundamental work approach by the chairman and vice chairman of Formasigen 2025 cabinet HomeoGenesis. The program socialisation carried on by program of each division from each head of division. After each presentation, the audience was given room to discuss and having QnA session. The next activity was a little ice breaking session followed by talkshow from Formasigen’s alumni. The main topic of the talkshow was the century of biology from Adib Fakhruddin Yusuf, S.Si., M.Sc. as the speaker. After that, the speaker was given souvenir from Formasigen’s current chairman followed by documentation. All guest that attend Open House were also asked to give their feedback and hopes for Formasigen 2025. With the realisation of this event, we hoped that all assigned program can be held without any significant challenge and the relation of Formasigen and external party can be better and can lead to more opportunity.

Currently, science develop rapidly, one of which is related to anatomical characteristics, which are essential parameters in the study of botany and zoology, including systematics, evolution, and ecophysiology related to adaptation. The mega diversity of plants and animals in Indonesia directly proportional to the characteristics of their internal structure. To analyse the anatomical characters of an organism properly, special knowledge related to the sample preparation technique is needed. Therefore, the microtechnique training is required. This event also important for sharing information.

The Laboratory of Plant Structure and Development and the Laboratory of Animal Structure and Development of the Faculty of Biology, UGM collaborate with PT. Miconos Indonesia conducted community service and initiated collaboration with the lecturers from FKIP, Universitas Pattimura Four lecturers from FKIP, Universitas Pattimura were Prof. Dr. Hermalina Sinay, S.Pd., M.Sc., Dr. Sriyanti I.A. Salmanu, M.Pd., Dr. Prelly M.J. Tuapattinaya, M.Pd., and Dr. Syahran Wael, S.Pd., M.BioMed. This training was held for three days, on October 16-18, 2024. The welcome speech was carried out at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology, UGM, by Dr. Maryani, M.Sc. as the Head of the Laboratory of Plant Structure and Development and opened directly by Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc. as the Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources. They stated that through this training, Faculty of Biology eagerly to share knowledge and experience especially in microtechniques and initiate collaboration between educational institutions.

This training focus on animal and plant microtechniques, especially the paraffin method (embedding). Then continued with the laboratory work. During the training, the participants actively discuss with the mentors and showed high enthusiasm for the material provided.
Dr. Maryani, M.Sc., at the Laboratory of Plant Structure and Development, officially closed the activity. She hope that this training can be used to develop their institution. In the future, we hope this training can initiate collaboration between two institutions.

this activity also contributes to support sustainable development goals (SDG) No. 4 on quality education, SDG No. 10 on reducing inequality, especially in education, and SDG No. 17 on partnerships to achieve goals. This training is not only beneficial for the participants but also helps strengthen the quality of education in Indonesia.

Malang, September 29, 2024 – A team of students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has successfully earned a nomination at the 3rd International Conference of Biological Science x Open Bioproject Competition, held at Universitas Brawijaya from September 28-29, 2024.

The team, consisting of Angela Puspa Larasati (Biology, 2021), Abisha Yoofi Yudhatama (Biology, 2021), and Abigail Yemima (Biology, 2021), under the supervision of Yustinus Maladan, S.Si., M.Si., presented their research titled, “Design of an HIV-1 Epitope-based Vaccine from Glycoprotein-41 (Gp41) through a Bioinformatics Approach.” Their research earned them the Bronze Medal in the Research Competition for College Students category.

The study focused on developing an HIV-1 epitope-based vaccine using an in silico approach. Through bioinformatics, the team conducted epitope prediction targeting T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes, molecular dynamics simulations, molecular docking, and immune system simulations. This process resulted in a stable HIV-1 vaccine design with promising potential for further development.

On October 5, 2024, Mr. Susilohadi, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D., from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, conducted a socialization on the definition, role, and management of riparian zone, particularly concerning conservation, to the residents of Pajangan Hamlet, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta. This event was part of a series of activities under the 2024 Program Hibah Desa Mitra in Wedomartani Village, Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta.

The event began with an explanation regarding the definition of a riparian zone. Riparian zones are narrow and elongated areas that act as a transition between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. For people living in rural areas, the riparian zone is the only “forest” remaining amidst settlements and rice fields, which occupy nearly 90% of the village area. The role of the riparian zone is crucial, not only as a buffer zone between water and land but also as a carbon sink, erosion preventer, water filter, soil health maintainer, a place for natural vegetation to grow, and a habitat for various wildlife species.

On this occasion, Mr. Susilohadi, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D., as the speaker, emphasized that the role of riparian zone for the community has become even more important, given that many of these areas are being converted, particularly due to the expansion of housing developers and the emergency state of waste management. In Yogyakarta city and Sleman Regency, environmental crimes such as the uncontrolled disposal of domestic and industrial waste around riparian zones are widespread. This socialization also aligns with SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) number 15, which focuses on the management of terrestrial ecosystems, including specific goals like the protection of protected areas, water flow management, vegetation restoration, wildlife rehabilitation, waste and pollution management, as well as community education and participation. Community participation, especially from Pajangan Hamlet in Wedomartani, in this socialization event was quite large and enthusiastic, particularly with the active involvement of women who participated in discussions about the future of the river and its borders in their village, considering it as part of the local community’s ecosystem.

On Sunday, September 1, 2024, the Marine Studies Group (KSK) organized “KSK Mengajar” program at Mafaza Orphanage in Warungboto, Bantul, Yogyakarta in collaboration with the Graduate Student Association (KMP). The event took place from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM WIB and was attended by 63 participants and 17 committee members.

The event began with an introduction to marine life and the Marine Studies Group (KSK), followed by an interactive game session. In the second session, participants received inspirational material on motivation for achieving their dreams. The program concluded with the distribution of prizes and a group photo session.

The success of this event was supported by donations, which were collected from August 27 to 31, 2024, Rp1,430,000 was raised and directly handed over to the orphanage on the day of the event.

We would like to extend our gratitude to all the donors, Mafaza Orphanage, KMP, and everyone who contributed to the success of the “KSK Teaching #2” program in 2024.
[Writer: KSK]

On Sunday, September 1, 2024, the Marine Studies Group (KSK) organized “KSK Mengajar” program at Mafaza Orphanage in Warungboto, Bantul, Yogyakarta in collaboration with the Graduate Student Association (KMP). The event took place from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM WIB and was attended by 63 participants and 17 committee members.

The event began with an introduction to marine life and the Marine Studies Group (KSK), followed by an interactive game session. In the second session, participants received inspirational material on motivation for achieving their dreams. The program concluded with the distribution of prizes and a group photo session.
The success of this event was supported by donations, which were collected from August 27 to 31, 2024, Rp1,430,000 was raised and directly handed over to the orphanage on the day of the event.
We would like to extend our gratitude to all the donors, Mafaza Orphanage, KMP, and everyone who contributed to the success of the “KSK Teaching #2” program in 2024.
[Writer: KSK]

To mark its 69th Anniversary, the Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has launched the Integrated Genome Factory (IGF), a facility designed for advanced multi-omics research. The launch occurred during the Open Senate Meeting, themed “Biology in Action, Biology Goes Global,” on September 19, 2024, at the Tropical Biology Auditorium. The IGF was inaugurated by UGM Rector, Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG(K)., Ph.D., symbolized to begin DNA sequencing using Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT).

The IGF is equipped with the ONT PromethION 24, capable of sequencing up to 720 Gb of DNA per day, supported by a Data Acquisition Unit (DAU) with powerful quad Nvidia A100 GPUs and a 160-core CPU for efficient data processing. The facility also features automated systems like the Opentrons Flex and automated DNA extraction, which streamline high-precision library preparation for large-scale research.

This facility was established with funding from Panin Bank, managed by the Satriabudi Dharma Setia Foundation (YSDS), and through support from the Inter-University Center for Excellence (IUCfE) program of the Directorate General of Higher Education (DIKTI). IGF aims to position UGM as a leader in ONT sequencing and multi-omics research in Indonesia. It is also supported as a biotech start-up by UGM’s Innovative Academy, allowing further development and expansion.

The Faculty of Biology UGM is committed to utilizing and conserving biodiversity for food security, renewable energy, medicine, and ecosystem health. The Dean of the Faculty noted that the IGF will enhance research capabilities in genomics and multi-omics, especially in biodiversity, food, and health sciences, contributing to Indonesia’s competitiveness. The IGF supports SDG goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

Yogyakarta, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) celebrated its 69th anniversary with a lively Tasyakuran event held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, in the Auditorium Biologi Tropika. The event took place following an Open Senate Meeting earlier that morning, which was part of the official anniversary celebration before transitioning to the Tasyakuran festivities in the afternoon.

The Tasyakuran was filled with warmth and attended by faculty leaders, lecturers, educational staff, students, the Dharma Wanita Persatuan of the Faculty of Biology, and invited guests. The event was opened by Asrindon, S.I.Kom., and Annisa Mawarni, S.Si., who enlivened the atmosphere with humor.

The Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., delivered a speech focusing on gratitude towards all administrators and members of the Faculty of Biology. “Not all educational institutions reach 69 years, so we should be grateful that our beloved Faculty continues to exist and thrive,” said Prof. Budi.

Following this, a traditional “cutting of the tumpeng” ceremony was conducted by the Senate Chair, accompanied by the Dean and Vice Dean. The first portion of the tumpeng was given to the youngest lecturer, Aryo Seto Pandu Wiranto, S.Si., M.Sc., and the second portion was awarded to the Chairman of the 69th Anniversary Committee, Mr. Abdul Razaq Chasani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D.

In addition to the tumpeng ceremony, the Tasyakuran featured various performances by lecturers, educational staff, and students. The mascot Mefi performed, followed by a Bio Line Dance to the song “Kupu-Kupu,” poetry reading by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., titled “3K+69,” song performances by Fani Sukria and Kalleb William, and a flash mob titled “Gugur Gunung” added to the festive atmosphere.

After the entertainment session, the event continued with the presentation of mementos to retiring lecturers and educational staff for the year 2024: Dr. Siti Sumarmi, Slamet Riyadi, Haryanto, and Harjana.

The Faculty of Biology also recognized the best educational staff of 2024, including Siti Nur Haidah, S.E. (Administration), Yuni Hartati (Laboratory), Maria (Cleaning and Environment), and Dwi Ristanto (K5L). Awards for outstanding students from both undergraduate and graduate programs were announced, including Ridho Nur Alam (Undergraduate Academic Category), Maidira Marsa (Undergraduate Sports Category), Kheysa Alvina Handayani (Undergraduate Arts Category), and Aryan Mustamin (Graduate Academic Category).

In the next session, as a commitment to environmental responsibility, the Faculty of Biology symbolically handed out tumblers that will be distributed to all new students in the 2024 cohort as part of a campaign to reduce plastic waste on campus. Educational assistance was also provided by the Dharma Wanita Persatuan of the Faculty of Biology UGM to eight students selected by the Academic team with the Dean’s approval.

The event concluded with a door prize draw, further enlivening the Tasyakuran atmosphere. Prizes were donated not only by the Faculty of Biology but also by CV. Tri Mitra Jaya, CV. Asih Manunggal, PT. Diastika Biotekindo, BPR Bank Bantul (Perseroda), and WK Group. The 69th Anniversary Tasyakuran of the Faculty of Biology UGM ended with hopes for continued achievement, innovation, and global recognition.

Happy 69th Anniversary to the Faculty of Biology UGM!

Yogyakarta, September 21, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) once again held a cross-generation alumni gathering as part of the 69th Anniversary celebrations. The event, which took place at the B Building of the Faculty of Biology, was attended by more than 120 alumni from various generations who are part of the Keluarga Alumni Biologi Gadjah Mada (Kabiogama).

The event began with an Obah Gumregah exercise session led by an instructor, inviting participants to join in a lively workout in an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm and camaraderie. Following the exercise, a welcoming speech was delivered by Dr. Drs. Ario S. Setiadi, MM, PhD, CPM, CHRM, President of the Kabiogama Central Board (PP Kabiogama). In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of maintaining resilience and synergy among alumni to strengthen the network and support the future development of the Faculty of Biology at UGM.

The Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., then conveyed his gratitude for the enthusiasm shown by the alumni. He emphasized that the contributions of alumni play a vital role in advancing the faculty, not only in academic development but also in expanding collaborative networks.

The core part of the event featured a presentation by Prof. Dr. Sofyan Anif, M.Si., with the theme “Weaving Synergy, Towards Alumni Independence and Resilience.” In his presentation, he encouraged alumni to continue contributing to national development through independence, resilience, and collaboration, both academically and professionally. The session also included the symbolic launch of the new Kabiogama membership card by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni at the Faculty of Biology, along with the President of PP Kabiogama.

After the presentation, the event became even more lively with various fun games. Laughter, sing-alongs, and nostalgic stories filled the air, strengthening the bonds among alumni. The event concluded with the distribution of door prizes, generously donated by alumni of the Faculty of Biology UGM, adding to the joy of the participants.

This alumni gathering served as a crucial moment to strengthen the relationships between cross-generation alumni and enhance synergy in the collective effort to build a stronger and more resilient Faculty of Biology UGM for the future.