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SDG 15 : Advance Life On Land

Training on Making Natural Hair Oil and Hand Gel by the PkM-MBKM Team of the Faculty of Biology UGM in Segoroyoso, Pleret, Bantul

Community ServiceNews Release Wednesday, 15 October 2025

The 2025 Community Service – Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (PkM-MBKM) Team from the Faculty of Biology UGM, led by Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., held an event themed “Training on Making Natural Hair Oil and Hand Gel for the Community” in RT 1 (Dahromo Indah group) and RT 3 (Cempaka group), Segoroyoso, Pleret, Bantul, Yogyakarta. This activity was presented by a student team consisting of Lusiyana Prihatini, Zahra Karimah Nuha, Kholish Naufal Pamungkas, and Elisabeth Kurniawati, with support from the technical team. The interactive event was attended by 15 members of the GEMI partner forum (Women’s Economic Movement) and two GEMI administrators, who actively supported this community empowerment activity.


The event took place on Monday, October 13, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, at the home of Mrs. Zanimah (RT 1). The session began with socialization about the contents and benefits of lemongrass and aloe vera as natural body care ingredients. Participants learned that lemongrass contains essential oils that can reduce dandruff and itching, cool the scalp, and provide a naturally fresh aroma to their hair. Meanwhile, aloe vera is rich in gel containing vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that moisturize and nourish the skin and hair.

The next session was a hands-on practice of making natural hair oil and hand gel. Three demonstrations were conducted: (1) making hair oil from Aloe vera mixed with olive oil, (2) making hand gel from Aloe vera and lime juice mixed with alcohol as a natural antiseptic, and (3) making hair oil from lemongrass and cloves, heated together with oil, then adding vitamin E, which functions as an antioxidant to extend product shelf life.

The activity was highly interactive, with a Q&A session covering ingredient variations, additional benefits, and product shelf-life. The most active participant received a door prize, which boosted the spirit of the event. As a form of program sustainability, each participant also received aloe vera and lemongrass seedlings to plant at home, so they could immediately put the training material into practice at home.

The PkM-MBKM program is part of the Faculty of Biology UGM’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). The activity is designed to run for two semesters, namely the Even Semester of the 2024/2025 Academic Year and the Odd Semester of the 2025/2026 Academic Year, as a continuous effort to educate the community on the independent and sustainable use of natural ingredients.

 

Ph.D. STUDENT FROM BIOLOGY UGM CONDUCTED JOINT RESEARCH AT NATURALIS BIODIVERSITY CENTER & HORTUS BOTANICUS LEIDEN NETHERLAND

Student Activities Tuesday, 14 October 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University (UGM), has a long-standing partnership with Leiden University, including a joint research program. Dany Lesmana Hakim, a doctoral student in Biology at UGM, had the opportunity to undertake this program at the Naturalis Biodiversity Center and Hortus botanicus Leiden, Netherlands, from October 7th – 19th, 2025. During his visit to Leiden, Dany conducted research related to his dissertation.


During his visit to the Naturalis Biodiversity Center Leiden, Dany observed all herbarium specimens of Myristica fragrans Houtt. originating from Asia including: Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. The herbarium specimens of Nutmeg are located in the 4th floor Collection Lab or known as CoLa4. On the first day, the Collection manager of Botanie (Susana Arias Guerrero) provided an introduction to the storage location of the plant herbarium specimens and also safety instructions in the laboratory. Several parts of the nutmeg plant were observed including: leaves, fruit, and seeds and a comparison of the unique morphology of nutmeg plants from various regions of origin of the collection was carried out. This source of information obtained will later be used as supporting data in the dissertation research.

In addition to visiting the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Dany visited the Hortus botanicus Leiden which is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands and Western Europe built in 1590. This botanical garden has an area of ​​​​up to 4 hectares. This first visit, Dany met with Prof. Dr. rer.nat. Paul Kessler as his dissertation Co-supervisor lecturer at the Hortus Grand Café located inside the Hortus botanicus Leiden. In addition to discussing his dissertation research, Dany and Prof. Dr. rer.nat. Paul Kessler also toured the Hortus botanicus. Prof. Dr. rer.nat. Paul Kessler explained the history and also the plant collections in the Hortus botanicus Leiden. The initiation of the establishment of the Hortus botanicus Leiden after the establishment of Leiden Universiteit by building a herbal garden for teaching media for medical students located behind the academic building of the Rapenburg campus.

The collection of plants in the Hortus is very complete originating from all over the world including Indonesia which are grown both in the greenhouse and outside the greenhouse. The plants in the greenhouse generally contain tropical plants that cannot survive in the Dutch environment. Examples of these plants include: Jade flower (Strongylodon macrobotrys), tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera), giant water lily (Victoria amazonica), lotus flower (Nelumbo nucifera ‘Pekinensis Rubra’), Japanese terbas tree (Zelkova serrata), pitcher plant (Nepenthes sp.), giant corpse flower (Amorphophallus titanum), various orchids (over 4000 species, one of which is Grammatophyllum speciosum), Fagus sylvatica tree, Wollemi pine (Wollemia nobilis), Thunbergia mysorensis, Ginkgo biloba, banana cultivar ‘Siam Ruby’, Myristica fragrans Houtt. from Indonesia, Aristolochia arborea, sweet starfruit (Averrhoa carambola) which originates from Java to Maluku, Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides), Monstera sp., Hibiscus sp., pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merr. ‘Victoria’), Acalypha hispida, Citrus sp., Pseudocydonia sinensis, Aster tataricus, Helonias thibetica, Clerodendrum bungei Steud., Rostrinucula dependens, Gaultheria borneensis, and Gaultheria procumbens.

This joint research program supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): zero hunger (SDG 2), quality education (SDG 4), life on land (SDG 15), and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17). The joint research program is funded by the UGM Directorate of Global Cooperation 2025 and the INUCoST 2025 research fund.

Ethnobiology Lecture at the Yogyakarta Palace: Exploring Cultural Wisdom in Preserving Biodiversity

News ReleaseStudent Activities Wednesday, 8 October 2025

On Saturday, September 27, 2025, students of the Master’s Program in Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, who are enrolled in the Ethnobiology course, participated in a unique field lecture held at the Yogyakarta Palace (Keraton Yogyakarta). The session, which began at 11.00 a.m., took the form of an open discussion on cultural wisdom within the Palace environment and its relationship to biodiversity. The students, accompanied by the course lecturer, Dr.Eng. Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., engaged in an interactive discussion with two speakers representing the Palace: R.A. Siti Amirul Nur Sundari (Carik Kawedanan Radyo Kartiyoso) and Mas Jajar Praba Hanendra (Mas Irmawan).


The activity began with introductions between the students and the speakers, followed by a brief explanation of the genealogy of the Yogyakarta Palace, the meaning of candrasengkala (symbolic inscriptions) on palace buildings, and the etiquette of dressing within the royal grounds. The main discussion then focused on cultural wisdom and its connection to biodiversity. The speakers explained that many plants growing within the Palace grounds hold specific symbolic meanings and ecological functions. Some of these—such as beringin (banyan), sawo kecik, gayem, and kepel trees—are cultivated and maintained with special care by the Palace. There are also naturally growing plants, such as various ferns that attach themselves to large trees.

Through this activity, students not only learned about the close interrelation between culture and the environment but also came to understand that biodiversity conservation has long been an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Yogyakarta Palace.

The vegetation within the Palace grounds serves not merely as landscape decoration but carries deep philosophical and ecological significance in Javanese life, particularly within the royal setting. These plants are arranged meaningfully to serve various purposes—as shade providers, pollutant absorbers, water retainers, and windbreaks. According to R.A. Siti Amirul Nur Sundari, each plant in the Palace embodies both symbolic and ecological roles that complement one another. She explained the meanings and functions of several important plants, including the beringin, gayam, jambu dersana, sawo kecik, and kepel.

Banyan Tree (Beringin): A Symbol of Sacredness and Life Sustenance

The banyan tree is regarded as sacred within the Palace grounds. Ecologically, it plays an essential role as a source of oxygen, a groundwater reservoir, and a habitat for various small animals and epiphytic plants. Due to its importance, only the Sultan has the authority to plant a banyan tree. The Sultan also prohibits excessive planting of banyans to maintain biodiversity and prevent a monoculture environment that could threaten other plant species. Additionally, the tree’s large, spreading roots can damage building foundations and drainage systems if planted too close to infrastructure.

Jambu Dersana: A Symbol of Serenity and Inner Peace

The jambu dersana symbolizes tranquility and calmness. The word durs refers to rain that brings coolness and peace. This philosophy teaches that anyone entering the Palace area should carry an aura of peace and composure, both outwardly and inwardly. It reflects the importance of emotional intelligence, calmness, and courtesy within the Palace setting.

 

Gayam Tree: Strength and Balance

The gayam tree represents resilience and stability. It thrives even under harsh conditions, symbolizing steadfastness, purity, and balance in life. This value teaches that individuals entering the Palace should maintain harmony between nature and spirituality.

 

Sawo Kecik: Patience and Virtue

The sawo kecik tree symbolizes patience and perseverance. Its sweet fruit takes a long time to ripen, representing that goodness and wisdom are achieved through time and effort. In Javanese philosophy, the word sawo is associated with refinement and gentleness. Though modest in appearance, the fruit’s sweetness and nutritional value reflect the idea that a person’s true worth lies in their words and actions, not in outward appearance—echoing the Javanese proverb, “Ajining diri saka lathi, ajining raga saka busana” (One’s dignity comes from their speech, one’s honor from their attire).

 

Kepel: A Symbol of Purity, Grace, and the Soul of a Warrior

The kepel tree holds profound meaning in Javanese royal culture. It symbolizes purity and inner fragrance—traits of a person who is virtuous, gentle, and pure-hearted. The kepel also embodies the noble qualities of a Javanese warrior, summarized in four philosophical principles: nyawiji (unity and harmony), greget (enthusiasm), sengguh (self-confidence), and ora mingkuh (responsibility and perseverance).

Philosophically, these four values represent stages of a warrior’s inner journey—beginning with unity and dedication to one’s duty (nyawiji), fostering passion and commitment (greget), building confidence (sengguh), and culminating in integrity (ora mingkuh), which signifies resilience in the face of challenges. Within the Palace, kepel trees are typically planted in sacred areas or near the keputren (the royal women’s residence). Being a rare species, its conservation is carried out by the Palace in collaboration with supporting institutions to ensure its preservation.

Beyond their symbolic and ecological meanings, many plants are also used in traditional ceremonies and daily activities within the Palace, reflecting a balance of local wisdom, cultural symbolism, and environmental sustainability.

A notable example is the Yasa Peksi Burak ceremony, held to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad’s Isra Mi’raj. In this ritual, the Palace creates a bird replica symbolizing Buraq, the Prophet’s mythical mount, crafted from pomelo peel. The base of the figure is decorated with a nest made of pacar leaves and layers of fruits, representing beauty and prosperity.

Other traditional practices, such as thanksgiving ceremonies, feature polo-poloan, a classification of foods derived from plants with distinct growth characteristics:

  • Polo Kesimpar: fruits growing along the ground, such as watermelon, melon, and cantaloupe.
  • Polo Pendem: underground crops like yam, cassava, potato, taro, and peanut.
  • Polo Gantung: fruits growing above ground, hanging from trees such as mango, guava, pomelo, and grape.
In addition to ceremonial use, plants also play practical roles in daily palace life. For instance, tamarind is used for cleaning royal carriages to enhance their durability, while lime and young coconut water are employed to cleanse royal heirlooms (keris) during the sacred month of Suro. These practices reflect how the Yogyakarta Palace preserves harmony between nature, spirituality, and tradition—continuing the legacy of ecological and cultural wisdom passed down through generations.

The meeting with Ibu Amirul and Bapak Irmawan left a profound impression on the students. They gained valuable insights into the use of plants and animals within the Palace and their connection to Javanese culture. The students came to appreciate the deep philosophy embedded in these traditions and their relevance to both ecological balance and cultural identity.

Ethnobiological knowledge passed down through generations represents a vital form of local wisdom that must be sustained. Through this study visit, students learned from the Palace’s conservation initiatives aimed at preserving rare and culturally significant plants. As Biology students of UGM, they felt a moral responsibility to contribute to the preservation of Indonesia’s native biodiversity.

Interactive and contextual learning experiences such as this not only enrich academic understanding but also foster a deeper appreciation for nature and culture. The activity left a lasting impression and inspired students to continue engaging in meaningful field-based learning.

This activity also aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably Goal 4 (Quality Education) through contextual learning based on local wisdom, Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through the preservation of cultural values and traditions, and Goal 15 (Life on Land) through the conservation of biodiversity and rare plant species within the Palace grounds. Thus, this activity not only strengthens students’ academic insight but also supports tangible contributions to sustainable development in Indonesia (GAL/ZR).

The activity was attended by graduate students from the Master’s Program in Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, namely Mahyono Hassanudin, Ogilvy Galang Rizki, Arbiatun Nurlaili Assyifa, Syarafina Azzahra, Naufal Rafif Zain, Inez Maylida, and Ani Saputri.

UGM Double Degree Doctoral Student from Faculty of Biology Wins Poster Prize at the 77th Annual Conference of the German Society for Hygiene and Microbiology (DGHM) 2025

AchivementsNews Release Friday, 26 September 2025

Yogyakarta/Jena – September 2025

Tiara Putri, a double-degree doctoral student from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with the University of Greifswald, Germany, has been awarded one of the Poster Prizes at the 77th Annual Conference of the German Society for Hygiene and Microbiology (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Hygiene und Mikrobiologie, DGHM), held this year in Jena, Germany.


The DGHM conference is one of the most renowned microbiology meetings in Europe, attracting hundreds of researchers and clinicians working in the fields of infectious diseases, microbiology, and immunology. Winning this prize underscores the high quality of UGM’s international research collaborations and the contributions of its students to global scientific advancement.

Out of 188 poster presenters from various countries, including Germany, South Africa, Bulgaria, and Algeria, only five participants were selected for the award — with Tiara being among this distinguished group of winners.

The awarded poster, titled “Impact of pneumolysin, hydrogen peroxide, and Streptococcus pneumoniae strains on blood–CSF barrier integrity in a human choroid plexus co-culture model,” presents novel insights into the mechanisms by which Streptococcus pneumoniae, a major human pathogen, compromises the integrity of the blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier. The study contributes to a better understanding of bacterial meningitis pathogenesis, with potential implications for future therapeutic strategies.

“This recognition is not only a personal honor but also a reflection of the strong academic collaboration between UGM and the University of Greifswald,” Tiara said.

Tiara also shared that the conference was especially meaningful for her because the organizers provided a free childcare facility throughout the three-day conference. Children of participants were cared for by a professional Tagesmutter (childminder), allowing parents to attend the scientific sessions with peace of mind. “I truly appreciated this family-friendly facility that understands the needs of researchers who are also parents. It was very helpful for me, especially since I live in Germany alone with my children and could not leave them at home,” she added.

This achievement shows how strong academic support, combined with a family-friendly conference environment, can truly help researchers (especially those who are also parents of young children) to thrive and gain recognition internationally.

Biology for Environment and Humanity: Faculty of Biology UGM Celebrates 70 Years of Contribution Toward Global Sustainability

News Release Monday, 22 September 2025

Yogyakarta, 18 September 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held the peak ceremony of its 14th Lustrum and 70th Anniversary on Thursday (18/9) at the Tropical Biology Auditorium. Carrying the theme “Biology for Environment and Humanity”, the event reaffirmed the Faculty’s commitment to advancing environmental sustainability and improving the quality of human life, both nationally and globally. The ceremony was also broadcast live through the Faculty of Biology UGM’s YouTube channel, enabling wider public participation.

The Open Senate Meeting was attended virtually by the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Brian Yuliarto, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., who emphasized the importance of collaborative tropical biology research to address future challenges in food, energy, and the environment. The Rector of UGM, Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG(K), Ph.D., expressed her appreciation for the Faculty’s achievements in generating impactful innovations in tropical biology. She further highlighted UGM’s position, through the Faculty of Biology, as a National and International Center of Excellence in Tropical Biology.

The keynote scientific lecture was delivered by Drs. Heri Susanto, S.Si., M.M., Managing Director of Rentokil Initial (Indonesia, Sri Lanka & Maldives), with a presentation entitled “The Role and Application of Biology in the Pest Management Industry in Indonesia and the World”. He emphasized the critical role of biology in integrated pest management to support food security, public health, and the sustainability of environmentally conscious industries.

Meanwhile, the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., presented the Faculty’s accomplishments over the past five years, including the strengthening of tropical biotechnology research, the development of international curricula, and the contributions of alumni across various sectors. He also announced the soft launching of the Bio Medic Center building plan, envisioned as a new center of excellence for tropical biodiversity-based biomedical research and services.

The Open Senate Meeting served as the main agenda of a series of Lustrum XIV and 70th Anniversary activities that had been held since May 2025. These included a Fun Walk, Book Review and Blood Donation Drive, National Seminar on Tropical Biology, International Summer Course, Alumni Gathering, and the BioToprak Creative Stage. All activities were designed to strengthen the networks among academics, alumni, and partners, while reinforcing the Faculty’s role as a leading center for tropical biology at both the national and international levels.

The event also featured the signing of memorandums of understanding with PT. Biogen, the Marine and Fisheries Office of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, and St. Augustine Catholic University, focusing on collaboration in education, research, and community service.

“The theme Biology for Environment and Humanity serves as a reminder that innovations in biology must always be directed toward sustainable solutions for the planet and the welfare of humankind,” remarked Prof. Budi S. Daryono.

UGM and UWE Strengthen International Collaboration on Regenerative Agriculture Research

News Release Monday, 1 September 2025

Yogyakarta, 30 August 2025 — The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), and the School of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England (UWE), held an online meeting on Friday, 29 August 2025, to strengthen research and educational collaboration between the two institutions.

 

 

The meeting was attended by key representatives from both universities. From the Faculty of Biology UGM, participants included Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs; Dr. Nur Indah Septriani, M.Sc., Head of the Office of International Affairs (OIA); and Mukhlish Jamal Musa Holle, DPhil., lecturer at the Laboratory of Ecology and Conservation. From UWE, Dr. Adrian Crew, Head of the MRes Applied Sciences Program, joined the meeting along with one of his students, Tawny Bucks.

 

The agenda focused on updates regarding ongoing joint research projects and discussions on future opportunities for collaboration in both research and teaching. One of the key highlights was a project conducted in Simeuleu Island, Aceh, which emphasizes regenerative agriculture practices to support ecosystem sustainability and improve community well-being. The project is a collaborative effort between UGM and UWE, with direct involvement from Tawny Bucks and Syefrina Rosyida, an alumna of UGM’s Master Program in Biology.

 

Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to continue the collaboration on an equal and sustainable basis. As an initial step, they agreed to develop a concept note that will serve as the foundation for further research projects in regenerative agriculture.

 

“This meeting marks an important momentum to strengthen research synergy between UGM and UWE, especially on global issues such as sustainable agriculture and conservation,” said Dr. Eko Agus Suyono.

 

The collaboration is expected not only to generate academic innovation but also to deliver real solutions to environmental and social challenges, particularly in remote areas such as Simeuleu. It also opens up wider opportunities for students and researchers from both institutions to engage in international academic activities. In line with the commitment to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this initiative contributes to enhancing food security (SDG 2), strengthening climate action (SDG 13), and promoting the sustainable protection of terrestrial ecosystems (SDG 15). Through this partnership, UGM and UWE are taking concrete steps to integrate academic research with global sustainable development objectives.

Graduation Ceremony for Undergraduate Students, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada – Period IV, Academic Year 2024/2025

News Release Thursday, 28 August 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, once again held the graduation ceremony for undergraduate students of Period IV, Academic Year 2024/2025. The event took place on Wednesday, 27 August 2025, at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology UGM. A total of 147 graduates were officially conferred the degree of Sarjana Sains (S.Si.) or Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.). This solemn yet festive occasion was made possible through the collaboration of the entire academic community of the Faculty of Biology UGM, supported by 33 student organizers from the Biology Student Executive Board (BEM Biologi UGM), who ensured the smooth running of the ceremony.


From noon, the campus atmosphere was filled with excitement and joy as graduates and their families gathered to witness one of the most memorable moments of their academic journey. The ceremony began promptly at 13:00 WIB with an opening by the Master of Ceremony, followed by the entrance of graduates and faculty leaders into the auditorium. The event continued with the singing of the Indonesian national anthem Indonesia Raya, the Hymne Gadjah Mada, and the Mars Biologi, led by Biotimbre.

The agenda proceeded with the graduation report delivered by Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of the Undergraduate Program. In his report, he stated that 147 graduates had successfully completed their studies at the Faculty of Biology UGM. This was followed by the announcement of the graduation list of all 147 graduates, which was met with enthusiastic applause from families and invited guests.

The ceremony then continued with a speech by the representative of the graduates, Vincencio Valdy Putra Sasangka, S.Si., who also achieved the highest GPA of 3.99. In his address, he expressed gratitude and appreciation for the support of his family, lecturers, and the entire academic community throughout his studies. This was followed by a speech from the representative of parents, delivered by Mr. Tresnawan Budi Sasangka, S.E., father of Vincencio Valdy Putra Sasangka. He expressed gratitude for the guidance given by the Faculty of Biology UGM and extended prayers and best wishes for the graduates as they begin a new chapter of life with courage, sincerity, and a spirit of contribution to society.

Another significant moment was the pinning of the KABIOGAMA pin by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research and Alumni Affairs, to a representative of the graduates. This symbolic act marked the official induction of the graduates into Keluarga Alumni Biologi Gadjah Mada (KABIOGAMA), the alumni network that actively contributes both academically and socially. The event continued with a speech by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., who expressed appreciation for the students’ dedication and encouraged the graduates to uphold the good name of the Faculty of Biology UGM wherever they may contribute.

As a token of appreciation, the graduates presented the faculty with mementos consisting of one unit of air cooler and five folding laptop tables. The ceremony continued with a joint prayer for the graduates’ success in their new journey. The event was officially closed by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology, followed by a joyful photo session with graduates, faculty leaders, and lecturers.

The celebration reached its peak with a graduation parade led by Double Helix. Cheers from families, friends, and peers accompanied the graduates as they exited the auditorium, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. The Period IV graduation ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a starting point for graduates to dedicate themselves to society, the nation, and the world. The Faculty of Biology UGM hopes that its graduates will carry forward their knowledge, experiences, and spirit of togetherness to bring about positive change across various fields of life. [Writer: Aulia Annisa Azzahra]

UGM–ANU Collaboration Produces First Graduate of Biology Double Degree Program

News Release Tuesday, 26 August 2025

Yogyakarta, August 26, 2025 –The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), celebrates a historic milestone as Sabut Kharisona, B.Sc. (hons.) (IUP cohort 2021), officially becomes the first graduate of the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) Biology with a Double Degree (DD) scheme.


Sabut embarked on his double degree journey in the Fall Semester of 2023/2024 at the College of Science, Australian National University (ANU)—a globally renowned research university. During his studies at ANU, he not only pursued academic excellence but also actively engaged in diverse research and cultural activities.

In 2023, Sabut participated in a prestigious Summer Research Internship with the Research School of Biology, College of Science ANU, where he gained hands-on experience in cutting-edge biological research. Beyond the laboratory, he served as a Residential Mentor at Lena Karmel Lodge, providing guidance and support to fellow international students. Furthermore, he showcased Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage by leading the Sedulur Monco Gamelan Ensemble in Canberra.

Sabut completed his study program through a final project entitled: “Effects of Temperature Variability Across Habitat Scales on Animal Distribution and Adaptation”, a research topic that highlights urgent global issues of climate change and species adaptation. His work strongly aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13: Climate Action and SDGs 15: Life on Land.

Reflecting on his achievement, Sabut expressed his gratitude:

“I am grateful that the Biology IUP UGM has established collaboration with ANU, which gave me the opportunity to pursue a double degree program at ANU. This experience has broadened my academic perspective and built invaluable international networks.”

The Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., emphasized the significance of this achievement:

“Sabut is the first graduate of the Biology IUP Double Degree program. This marks the Faculty of Biology UGM’s strong commitment to providing international exposure for our students, and we will continue to enhance such opportunities in the future.”

Sabut Kharisona’s accomplishment is not only a personal success but also a cornerstone for the Faculty of Biology UGM in advancing world-class, inclusive, and sustainable education. This achievement also strengthens the faculty’s commitment to supporting SDGs 4: Quality Education and SDGs 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

UGM Biology Graduate Student Explores Forensic Science at the Police Forensic Laboratory Center in West Java

News Release Monday, 25 August 2025

Rindu Aurantika, a Master’s student from the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), took part in an internship at the Forensic Chemistry and Biology Division, specifically in the Biology-Serology Subdivision, at the Police Criminal Investigation Agency’s Forensic Laboratory Center (Puslabfor Bareskrim Polri) in Sentul, West Java. The internship ran from July 1st to 31st, 2025, under the academic supervision of Prof. Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc., and field supervision by Riski Suranto, S.Si. This internship program was not only joined by UGM students but also involved participants from Universitas Negeri Jakarta (UNJ), Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), and Universitas Brawijaya (UB).


Over five weeks, the internship was designed in stages to help students understand the full forensic examination process, from the beginning to the end of the program. In the first week, students were introduced to the organizational structure of Puslabfor, the role of the Biology-Serology Subdivision, and administrative tasks like archiving forensic reports from police departments across Indonesia. This initial stage showed that archiving is not just paperwork—it plays a critical role in legal processes.

In the second week, students got to know the various labs within the Biology-Serology Subdivision, including the serology lab, human DNA lab, non-human DNA lab, and microbiology lab. In the third week, students participated in examining biological evidence such as bloodstains, semen, hair, and body tissue. They also worked with other items often found at crime scenes, like clothing, tissues, drink bottles, cigarette butts, and more. During the fourth week, the focus shifted to more complex samples like bones and nails. Students also conducted genetic analysis using a Genetic Analyzer based on capillary electrophoresis technology. In the fifth week of the program, students repeated DNA extraction procedures and learned how to input DNA data into the detainee database system. The program ended with the preparation of a final report summarizing everything they had learned during the month-long internship.

This experience was a valuable opportunity for Rindu’s academic journey. “Internship at Puslabfor allowed me to see how biological science is applied in real-world of forensics. Each step, from serology testing to DNA interpretation, requires a high level of accuracy because the results directly impact criminal investigations,” she shared. Beyond improving her technical skills in forensic biology, the internship also helped strengthen her discipline and sense of responsibility. It is hoped that programs like this will support the growth of forensic science in Indonesia, through better education and research opportunities. [Author: Rindu Aurantika]

Faculty of Biology UGM Supports Capacity Building for Educational Laboratory Technicians at Polbangtan Yogyakarta Magelang

News Release Friday, 15 August 2025

The Politeknik Pembangunan Pertanian (Polbangtan) Yogyakarta Magelang held an In-House Training (IHT) for Educational Laboratory Technicians (PLP) on August 12–13, 2025. The event, held at Polbangtan Yoma, Jl. Kusumanegara No. 2, Tahunan, Umbulharjo, Yogyakarta, was officially opened by Sevi Melati, SP., M.Sc., a Young Expert PLP representing Polbangtan Yogyakarta Magelang, and attended by nine PLPs. On this occasion, Sevi Melati emphasized that this training is a strategic step to strengthen PLP competencies, ensure laboratory management is conducted in accordance with standards, and guarantee safety and service quality in laboratories to support Quality Education (SDG No. 4).


The speakers from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada delivered the materials in a comprehensive and practical manner. On the first day, Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes. presented Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for Laboratory Equipment Usage and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) in the Laboratory. Meanwhile, Eka Mega Sampurna, A.Md. conducted a session on Laboratory Equipment Maintenance and Calibration, accompanied by Practical Equipment Usage Simulation to strengthen participants’ understanding through hands-on learning. These topics directly and indirectly contribute to ensuring Good Health and Well-Being (SDG No. 3). On the second day, Dr. Maryani, M.Sc. delivered a session on Laboratory Management, including Inventory Equipment Recording and Reporting. She also guided participants in the Preparation of Plant Tissue Samples, including roots, stems, and leaves. All sessions were designed to be interactive, combining theory, discussion, and practice, enabling participants to master technical skills while also understanding managerial aspects of laboratory work to support Quality Education (SDG No. 4).

The implementation of this IHT demonstrates Polbangtan Yoma’s commitment to supporting the capacity building of PLPs so they can manage laboratories effectively, safely, and efficiently in line with the goal of providing Quality Education (SDG No. 4). The skills gained by participants are expected to not only support practicum and research activities but also strengthen the role of laboratories as centers of learning and innovation in agriculture, which is closely related to Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG No. 12) and Life on Land (SDG No. 15). The IHT program was concluded by Asih Farmia, SP., M.Agr.Sc., who expressed the hope that this training would bring great benefits to the PLPs. Furthermore, the participation of the Faculty of Biology, UGM in supporting this activity is expected to initiate collaboration between Polbangtan Yoma, to be formalized in a Memorandum of Understanding, thereby accelerating the achievement of Partnerships for the Goals (SDG No. 17). (Contributors: Ardaning Nuriliani, Maryani, Eka Mega Sampurna).
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