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.

On September 21, 2024, Dr. drh. Hendry Trisakti Saragih, M.P., from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, delivered a presentation on the proper maintenance of maron chickens to the residents of Dusun Pajangan, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta. The event was opened with remarks from Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., who explained that the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology, UGM, and Dusun Pajangan has been ongoing since 2019 and also involves students from the Faculty of Biology, UGM. In 2024, the community service programs in Dusun Pajangan include the Desa Mitra and MBKM-PkM Programs. The RW 16 village head, Mr. Sumadi, expressed his support for the program, which is coordinated by Mr. Gunardi, S.Si., the head of the Takmir Masjid Jami’ Darussalam Pajangan.

During this event as one of the activity series of Desa Mitra Grand in Wedomartani Village, Dr. Hendry explained the management of maron chickens, including the ideal cage design and the production of simple feed utilizing organic waste from the surrounding environment. Maron chickens, a crossbreed between Arab hens and Lingnan roosters, grow faster than local chickens and begin laying eggs at the age of seven months. The potential of maron chickens to boost the local economy is significant, as their eggs resemble local chicken eggs and can be sold at a higher price.

The cultivation of maron chickens aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including no. 1, no poverty, as maron chickens can lay eggs relatively quickly in large quantities and are highly marketable. It also supports no. 2, zero hunger, and no. 3, good health and well-being, as maron chicken eggs can be used to meet family nutritional needs. Moreover, this initiative contributes to SDG no. 12, responsible consumption and production, as the maintenance of maron chickens not only reduces organic waste but also produces manure useful for plants. The participants were highly engaged during the discussion, particularly about feed production and the idea of establishing a “chicken posyandu” for community care and oversight of chickens.

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, through the Laboratory of Animal Structure and Development and the Laboratory of Plant Structure and Development, in collaboration with PT. Miconos Indonesia, directed by Ahmad Nugraha Bayu Mukti, S.T., M.B.A., successfully organized a microtechnique training on September 10-12, 2024. This training was attended by five lecturers and technicians from the FKIP, Universitas Muhammadiyah Sukabumi.

The event began with remarks by the Head of the Laboratory of Animal Structure and Development, Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., representing both laboratories, and was officially opened by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. Both expressed that the training was an effort by the Faculty of Biology to share knowledge and experience in microtechniques, as well as to build collaborative bridges between educational institutions. The Faculty of Biology hopes that this training will mark the beginning of a closer and more sustainable partnership.

The training included both lectures and practical sessions, focusing on the paraffin method, an important technique in microtechniques. The training was led by a teaching team consisting of seven lecturers and two technicians from the Laboratory of Animal Structure and Development, as well as two lecturers and one technician from the Laboratory of Plant Structure and Development. Throughout the training, participants actively engaged in discussions and showed great enthusiasm for the material provided.

In addition to being a competency-enhancing event, this activity also contributed to efforts supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) No. 4 on quality education, SDG No. 10 on reduced inequality, particularly in education, and SDG No. 17 on partnerships to achieve the goal. As such, this training not only benefited the participants but also helped to strengthen the quality of education in Indonesia. It is hoped that this microtechnique training will serve as an inspiration for other educational institutions to continue improving the quality of teaching, especially in specific fields like microtechniques, to achieve excellence and global competitiveness in.