Yogyakarta, 27 August 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada received a visit from a conservation ecologist from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Australia, namely Prof. Raylene Cooke, and Prof. John White. Also present were colleagues from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Dr. Ristiyanto, Dr. Arlyna Budi Pustika, and Dr. Farida Handayani. The visit was warmly welcomed by the Faculty of Biology, attended by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Finance, Assets and Human Resources Affairs, Dr.rer.nat Andhika Puspito Nugroho as Head of the Masters Study Program, Rina Sri Kasiamdari, Ph.D. as Head of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Study Program, Nur Indah Sepriani, Ph.D., and Tyas Iksan Hikawan, Ph.D. as Chair and Secretary of the Office of International Affairs, Faculty of Biology, as well as several lecturers at the Faculty of Biology who have studied in Australia; Dr. Maryani, and Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D.

Dr. Eko warmly welcomed the meeting. He said that the visit could be a great moment to initiate academic and research collaboration between the two institutions. The Deputy Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation and Alumni then explained the profile of the Faculty of Biology UGM, introducing each study program and collaborations that could be initiated together.

Prof. Raylene and Prof. John appreciated the meeting agenda. The two ecologists from Deakin University are enthusiastic about the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program at the Faculty of Biology, as well as the initiation of double degrees at bachelor, master and doctoral levels which can be collaborated with the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, especially as UGM itself has established memorandum of understanding with Deakin since 2020.

The discussion also discussed plans for research collaboration between Deakin University, Faculty of Biology, and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) which focuses on mapping rodenticides in the Asia Pacific, one of which is Indonesia. This was also conveyed by Prof. John and Prof. Raylene gave a public lecture on Tuesday (27/8) afternoon which focused on ARMS or Anticoagulant Rodenticide Monitoring System research with researchers in the Asia Pacific region. The collaboration scheme is planned to involve researchers and students from Deakin University, Faculty of Biology UGM, and BRIN through KONEKSI or Knowledge Partnership Platform Australia-Indonesia, a collaborative research funding program between Indonesia and the Australian Government. Apart from that, collaboration through double degrees with LPDP support was also initiated.

It is hoped that this meeting will be the initiation of collaboration between the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University and the Faculty of Biology UGM, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) as well as through academic collaboration and sustainable research (SDG 4 and 17), especially in ecological and conservation research for ecosystem sustainability (SDG 15).

Yogyakarta, August 24, 2024 – The Plant Systematics Laboratory organized a training on Plant DNA Barcoding to introduce and enhance molecular data processing competencies. The activity included DNA extraction, PCR techniques for DNA amplification, agarose gel electrophoresis, DNA barcoding, and DNA sequence analysis for systematic research—the event attended by 15 participants from the Faculty of Biology and the Graduate School of UGM.

The event opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. He stated, “The diversity of living organisms is vast, and the genetic diversity is still not widely explored. This training was an excellent agenda to expand knowledge on genetic diversity.” Following this, the Head of the Plant Systematics Laboratory at the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Ratna Susandarini, M.Sc., delivered her remarks, expressing appreciation for the participant’s enthusiasm in joining the training sessions.

The day one training involved lectures and practical sessions delivered by Dr. Istiana Prihatini, M.Si. from the Center for Applied Botanical Research, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), on plant DNA extraction using the conventional CTAB method and DNA extraction kit. Dry and fresh leaf samples used for the DNA extraction practical session. All participants successfully isolated DNA from their samples, which will used for DNA amplification on the second day training.

The day two training involved the preparation of PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) using the DNA samples extracted the day before. This stage aimed to amplify specific DNA segments for further analysis. Subsequently, participants were given a lecture on the basic principles of PCR and sequencing by Prof. Dr. Ratna Susandarini, M.Sc., highlighting the essential steps in genetic analysis. Participants were also equipped with knowledge about DNA Barcoding, an essential technique in plant systematics research, presented by Abdul Razaq Chasani, M.Si, Ph.D., a lecturer at the Plant Systematics Laboratory. After the presentation, the analysis continued with electrophoresis.

One of the participants, Nabila from the Faculty of Biology UGM, appreciated the training activities. “The training was fascinating and enjoyable. The speakers and facilitators delivered theory and practical sessions excellently, clearly, and structured. The understanding of the DNA Barcoding process from start to finish was explained in detail, including data analysis.”

The Plant DNA Barcoding Training reflects the contribution of the Faculty of Biology UGM, particularly the Plant Systematics Laboratory, in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing high-quality training to enhance education (SDG No. 4). Furthermore, the DNA Barcoding training materials can improve participants’ skills, which can later provide positive benefits for the conservation of terrestrial ecosystems in line with SDG No. 15.

The event was officially closed by the Head of the Plant Systematics Laboratory, followed by a group photo session. This two-day training emphasized the importance of strengthening the capacity and capabilities of the Plant Systematics Laboratory in molecular activities, particularly DNA Barcoding.

On Sunday, 18 August 2024, the Entomology Study Group (KSE) and Biology Orchid Study Club (BiOSC) successfully conducted a collaboration event with the theme “Entomology and Orchid Collaborative Harmony”. This event is part of the KSE activity to explore each study group subject of interest.

The event was opened by Regina Nilamsari (KSE) dan Zahra Afriani (BiOSC) as MC, followed by a presentation delivered by Fadhilla Eka (KSE) on Insect and their role in Orchid. The event then continued with a sharing session and a game session. The event also included a workshop on insect preservation and orchid propagation through the Keiki method. The activity concluded with a tour to the Taman Kupu-Kupu Wisdom Park UGM and documentation.

Yogyakarta, August 21, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed a visit from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPIK) at Universitas Padjajaran (Unpad) for a benchmarking activity focused on the Biodiversity Curator Professional Study Program (PKKH). The visit took place on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, from 3:00 – 4:15 PM, in the KPTU Meeting Room at the Faculty of Biology, UGM.

The delegation from FPIK Unpad, consisting of 6 lecturers and 4 students, was warmly received by the leadership of UGM’s Faculty of Biology. The FPIK Unpad representatives included Dra. Sri Astuty, M.Sc.; Dr. Yeni Mulyani, S.Si., M.Si.; Dr. H. Sunarto, S.Pi., M.Si.; Buntora Pasaribu, S.Pi., M.Sc., Ph.D.; Dr. Eri Bachtiar, S.Si., M.Si.; and Dr. Yuniarti, MS, S.Pi., M.Si.

On behalf of UGM’s Faculty of Biology, the event was attended by Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs; Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni; as well as Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., Head of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program. Additionally, two staff members from UGM’s P2MKSA Unit were also present.

The visit aimed to study and gain a deeper understanding of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program, which has recently been established at UGM’s Faculty of Biology. During the meeting, both parties engaged in discussions about the curriculum, program management, and potential collaboration opportunities in academic and research fields (SDGs 4).

In his opening remarks, Dr. Eko stated, “We warmly welcome our colleagues from FPIK Unpad and hope that this benchmarking activity will serve as a starting point for closer collaboration in the future, particularly in the development of programs focused on biodiversity conservation and management (SDGs 14 and SDGs 15).”

On the other hand, Dr. Yuniarti, Head of Bachelor Program Study the FPIK Unpad delegation, expressed her gratitude for the warm reception from UGM’s Faculty of Biology. She also expressed her hope that the results of this benchmarking activity could be applied in the development of programs at FPIK Unpad.

The visit concluded with the exchange of souvenirs between the two institutions and a group photo session as a memento. This visit is expected to strengthen the synergy between the two institutions in advancing education and research in the field of biodiversity in Indonesia (SDGs 16 and SDGs 17).

Yogyakarta, August 21, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is honored to host Kantaro Okada, an exchange student from Japan whose academic journey reflects a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and global learning. Kantaro’s background in International Relations and his passion for environmental science have motivated him to participate in the student exchange program at UGM, where he is currently pursuing studies in Biology and Environmental Science.

Kantaro recognizes the challenges that come with living in Yogyakarta, including language barriers and cultural differences. However, he views these challenges as opportunities for growth, which have made him more open-minded and eager to learn. His ability to adapt and embrace a new environment is a testament to the resilience often seen in exchange students.

Supported by his family, Kantaro expressed gratitude for the unwavering encouragement from his father, mother, and younger brother. Their support has been instrumental in his decision to pursue studies abroad, reinforcing the importance of family in educational endeavors.

Kantaro’s hobbies, including watching Western movies and dramas and listening to Western music, have not only provided leisure but have also enhanced his English language skills. These interests have contributed to his broader understanding of different cultures, aiding his adjustment to life in Yogyakarta.

What sets Kantaro apart is his unconventional academic path. Despite majoring in International Relations in Toyo University Japan, his decision to join the Faculty of Biology at UGM is driven by a personal mission to combat deforestation. His father owns a furniture shop that uses Indonesian trees, which has made Kantaro acutely aware of the environmental impact of deforestation. Determined to contribute to nature conservation, Kantaro is pursuing biology to gain a deeper understanding of natural systems and explore sustainable practices.

During his time at UGM, Kantaro has expressed a particular interest in courses on Plant Biosystematics and Plant Structure and Secretory Tissue Products. He aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of biological sciences from a global perspective, which will enable him to make informed decisions that align with environmental sustainability.

Kantaro Okada’s academic journey at UGM aligns with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

Kantaro’s dedication to education and environmental conservation serves as an inspiration to his peers and underscores the critical role that international exchange programs play in advancing the SDGs. His journey highlights the importance of global learning and interdisciplinary approaches in addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Yogyakarta – Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, a lecturer from the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has made a significant contribution by becoming the first and only full member from Indonesia in the Society for Wildlife Forensic Science (SWFS). SWFS is an international organization dedicated to supporting and promoting wildlife forensic science and providing competency certification for wildlife forensic scientists. Dr. Sendi is also certified in Wildlife Forensic Testing (https://www.wildlifeforensicscience.org/swfs-membership-2/?paged=22).

Indonesia is known for its rich biodiversity, unfortunately it faces serious challenges in wildlife crime. The absence of a full member from Indonesia in SWFS was previously a concern, given the urgency in addressing wildlife crime cases that frequently occur in the country. Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, who also serves as the Head of the Animal Systematics Laboratory in the Tropical Biology Department at UGM, has significantly contributed to various wildlife forensic cases in Indonesia. He has assisted in forensic DNA testing in multiple cases, including suspected illegal trade of rare animal body parts such as tigers, elephants, orangutans, and Komodo dragons. Among his notable contributions are DNA testing on suspected dugong bones by the Indonesian Navy’s Main Base, DNA testing of Komodo dragon samples by the East Java Regional Police, and training on wildlife DNA forensics held in various locations across Indonesia.

Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono’s achievement as a full member of SWFS is also highly relevant to the efforts towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 15, “Protect, Restore, and Promote Sustainable Use of Terrestrial Ecosystems.” His expertise in wildlife forensics supports the conservation of endangered species and the prevention of wildlife crimes, which are crucial elements for global biodiversity conservation.

It hoped that this accomplishment will pave the way for more scientists from Indonesia to participate in international organizations like SWFS and enhance collective efforts to combat wildlife crime at both the national and global levels.

The Entomology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University held a guest lecture entitled “Baculovirus for Integrated Pest Management.” The event took place in the Upper Meeting Room of Building A and was moderated by Aryo Seto Pandu Wiranto, S.Si., M.Sc. The event was held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, starting with remarks from Drs. Hari Purwanto, M.P., Ph.D., as the Head of the Entomology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology. He emphasized the importance of innovative pest control strategies in increasing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.

The event continued with the presentation of material by Prof. Said Ali Eid Elsalamouny from Cairo University, Egypt. Prof. Said delivered an in-depth presentation on the importance of using microbes, especially entomopathogenic viruses, as pest control agents in agriculture. He explained that several genera of viruses, such as Alphabaculovirus and Betabaculovirus, can effectively target pests from the order Lepidoptera, which includes many agricultural pests. Prof. Said also explained the use of Gammabaculovirus to control pests from the order Hymenoptera and Deltabaculovirus to control pests from the order Diptera. His presentation emphasized the potential of these viruses in the integrated pest management (IPM) system, which is very important for sustainable agriculture.

One of the highlights of the lecture was Prof. Said’s discussion on the mechanism of virus isolation from Olive Leaf Moth larvae, Palpita vitrealis. He explained the identification process consisting of direct observation of symptoms, observation using light and electron microscopes, and molecular techniques. This research resulted in the identification of a new type of Nucleopolyhedrovirus. To increase the effectiveness of Baculovirus as a biocontrol agent, Prof. Said explained several important factors that need to be considered, namely observation of insect behavior, timeliness in Baculovirus application, use of feeding stimulants, UV protectants, ensuring the right concentration, use of surfactants and adhesives. These factors are very important to maximize the impact of Baculovirus in pest control.

The material delivery session ended with a Q&A session, where participants actively interacted with Prof. Said, seeking further insights into the practical application of Baculovirus in agriculture. The guest lecture was closed with a group photo and participants left the event with renewed enthusiasm, understanding the important role of innovative pest control strategies in achieving food security and environmental sustainability. This event not only demonstrated progress in the field of Entomology but also strengthened the commitment of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada to contribute to the global goals of sustainable development, especially in the field of agriculture to prevent hunger (SDG 2) and a healthy and prosperous life (SDG 3) and safe for the environment (SDG 15).

On August 7, 2024, the Faculty of Biology held The Campus Induction for New Students of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program (PKKH) for the Odd Semester of the 2024/2025 Academic Year. This event was attended by the Faculty Management, Lecturers, Laboratory Heads, and 18 new students of the PKKH program who participated in person or virtually. The event was opened by the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, S.Si., M.Sc., who introduced the course lecturers and laboratory heads of the Faculty of Biology. The event continued with remarks from the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc, who attended virtually. Prof. Budi expressed his hope that the PKKH program alumni would be ready to face the challenges of the workforce and contribute positively to biodiversity management.

The presentation session featured a speaker from BRIN, Prof. Dr. Ocky Karna Radjasa, M.Sc., who spoke on the theme “Challenges of Marine Biodiversity Curation.” He emphasized that Indonesia, as a global center of marine abundance and diversity, particularly with the Coral Triangle Initiative, holds the highest coral diversity in the world. This diversity necessitates expertise in managing it, such as scientific diving and biodiversity curation.

The Head of the PKKH Study Program, Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., explained that the goal of the PKKH program is to produce expert biodiversity curators who are excellent in their field, confident, professional, culturally aware, creative, innovative, collaborative, and embody the values of Pancasila for the welfare of the nation and country. This program also aims to expand opportunities for academics and practitioners to receive excellent professional curator education to develop competencies in collection planning, collection gathering and documentation, collection analysis, and collection care. This aligns with SDG 4, which ensures inclusive and equitable quality education and promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all. It also mentioned that the duration of the PKKH program is two semesters (1 year), with a total of 36 credits, divided into classroom lectures (36.1%) and practical/practicum sessions (63.9%).

The Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., discussed the Indonesia Biologist Association (IBA), an organization that serves to unite, guide, and empower biologists in Indonesia and plays a role in enhancing the role of biologists as professional biologists, agents of change, and agents of development in the field of biology. The PKKH program is the first of its kind in Indonesia and Asia and the second in the world after Cambridge University.

The Coordinator of Academic Affairs and Student Affairs, Emi Dwi Suryanti, S.Si., M.Sc., provided material on Simaster, the system used for the learning process. The event concluded with a tour to the Biology Campus, guided by Ardita Tri Anugrah Budaya, S.Si.

Yogyakarta, 2 August 2024 – The 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development: Sustainable Bioprospecting of Tropical Biodiversity in 2024 has finished. The closing of the Faculty of Biology UGM’s annual agenda was held at Padiku Coffee and Eatery, Sleman, Yogyakarta, attended by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs as well as General Chair of the ISC Program, Mukhlis Jamal Musa Holle, M.Eng.Env., D.Phil. as Chief Executive of ISC, all lecturers and organizing committee, as well as summer course participants who have completed a series of summer courses both online and offline.

Participants from each university and country took turns presenting testimonials and experiences throughout the summer course. They expressed their appreciation and enjoyable experiences during the summer course series, especially the offline and field agendas which provided new experiences for those from different countries. Appreciation awards were then given to participants who actively participated in the activities.

The screening of the compilation video for the 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development agenda was then held. The participants were enthusiastic about reminiscing about the series of activities they went through together.

Mukhlis Jamal Musa Holle, M.Eng.Env., D.Phil. as Chief Executive of ISC expressed his thanks to all participants who had taken part in the summer course activities until completion. It is hoped that this summer course can be an enjoyable experience and become a forum for various experiences and stories.

Dr. Eko expressed his appreciation for the implementation of this year’s summer course, starting from the online and offline lecture agenda, exploring local culture such as the Sultan Palace and Sonobudoyo museum, various trainings, to exploring the beach and studying local bioprospecting products. The International Summer Course held by the Faculty of Biology UGM has reached its 7th year. It is hoped that in the future there will be many innovations and wider collaboration with various world universities.

Greetings from Dr. Eko also closed the ISC this year. The implementation of ISC cannot be separated from the contributions of various parties, participants and resource persons from various universities and countries, presenting themes according to their scientific fields. It is hoped that ISC can become a forum for various and expand collaboration and sustainable knowledge.

Yogyakarta, 1 August 2024 – The 7th International Summer Course in Sustainable Development: Sustainable Bioprospecting of Tropical Biodiversity this year consists of various online and offline lecture series, workshops and cultural trips, as well as field studies. The ISC field study was held at Kukup Beach and Porok Beach, Gunung Kidul, DIY on Tuesday (1/7).

Kukup Beach is one of the famous beach destinations in the Gunung Kidul area, alongside several other beaches in the same area including Panjang Beach, Nglolang Beach and so on. Kukup Beach is a source of livelihood for the surrounding community who depend on marine products and tourism. Some of the products sold include processed shrimp, squid, fish, and antlion.

The participants enthusiastically explored the beach area. Divided into several groups, they went around to study marine bioprospecting products in the Kukup Beach area. Some of them conducted short interviews with the sellers there, and tasted processed products including fried antlion which some people are not too familiar with consuming.

The ISC agenda continued with exploring Porok Beach, which is one of the marine research stations managed by the UGM Faculty of Biology. Porok Beach is often used as a place for research and data collection for students to study marine ecosystems.

In the evening and into the evening, the participants enthusiastically took part in various simple games. Apart from familiarizing the participants, this also helped refresh their minds after the series of lectures and training on the previous ISC agenda. The evening closed by grilling sausages around the fire while sharing the fun experiences of the participants during this summer course.