On Saturday, August 31, 2024, the Parasitology Division of the Animal Systematics Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, UGM, held a training session titled “Morphometric-Geometry and Comparison Techniques.” The event took place in the Upper Conference Room of the Faculty of Biology UGM. The training was attended by 29 participants, including PhD and master’s students, as well as students from the Lecturer-Student Collaboration (KDM) and MBKM programs.

The main speaker was Mr. Sidiq Setyo Nugroho, S.Si., M.Sc., M.P.H., from the Biosystematics and Evolution Research Center, BRIN, and an alumnus of the Faculty of Biology, UGM. In her opening remarks, the Chair of the Organizing Committee, Dr. Dra. RR. Upiek Ngesti W. Astuti noted that the event aimed to equip students with additional skills for conducting in-depth research and supporting scientific publications.The event was inaugurated by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., who emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and fostering collaborative networks among participants.

The training covered the theoretical and practical Morphometric-Geometry and Comparison Techniques including wing geometry, Landmark-based, Ooutline-based, semi landmark, and the advantages and limitations of these techniques. Participants were introduced to software tools such as tpsUtil, tpsDig2, and MorphoJ and engaged in hands-on practice, including wing preparation and photo digitization of mosquito wings from the genera Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex. This training supports the SDGs’ goals especially SDGs No.3 on good health and well-being, SDGs No.4 on quality education, and SDGs No.17 on partnership for the goals.

On Friday, August 16, 2024, the BEM Biology Cabinet Padma Birawa organized the BEM Skill Sharing Moment (MOBIL) #1. The event took place at 4:00 PM in Room 1, Building B, Faculty of Biology, guided by Aditya Latiful Azis and Rima Arvisya Natania Putri. A total of 40 young BEM Biology staff members attended the event. The theme for MOBIL #1 was “Synergy in Action: Achieving More Together,” covering two main topics. The event began with a prayer and opening remarks from Field Coordinator, Achmad Nadhmi Arfa, followed by seminars.

The first seminar session featured speaker Lara Ayu Oktaviani, who presented on effective communication, time management, work professionalism, and conflict management. The session was engaging, incorporating Mentimeter to enhance participant involvement and employing the “written memory” technique to aid participants in concentrating on the material. The next session was led by Aghniya Faza Kencana and Firchamy Vuqi Aulia, who discussed the importance of SWOT analysis and its role in organizations.

The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to the speakers and a group photo session. It is hoped that this event could provide the young members of BEM Biology with new insights and skills.

On Monday, August 26, 2024, a community service event was held in Wukirsari Village, Cangkringan District, Sleman Regency. Wukirsari Village Partner was one of the nine villages mentored by the UGM Faculty of Biology in 2024. The event was opened and moderated by Dr. Maryani, M.Sc., with remarks from Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., a representative from the Mitra Wukirsari Village Team. The main training material was presented by Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., on the topic of the Potential & Prospects of Hydroponic Vegetable Cultivation. Hydroponics is a plant cultivation technique that uses water as a medium instead of soil, and is distinct from pot cultivation and vertical farming techniques, offering numerous advantages and ease of setup.

During this event, the village women of Sruni were introduced to the Wick System, a simple hydroponic method that does not use a pump and therefore incurs no electricity costs, making it cheaper and easier to set up. The plants used for hydroponic demonstration included lettuce, mustard greens, bok choy, and water spinach, though other plants such as chili peppers, tomatoes, bell peppers, beans, spinach, cucumbers, and fruit plants like strawberries and melons can also be grown hydroponically.

The advantages of hydroponic techniques include no need for large land areas, efficient water use, high productivity, no soil media, optimal nutrient conditions, reusable nutrient media, and freedom from pests and weeds. Therefore, it was hoped that the Sruni villagers would implement hydroponic techniques at home to enhance food self-sufficiency. Key factors to consider in hydroponic cultivation include the health of seedlings (healthy, green, and disease-free), media, oxygen availability, aeration, pH levels, light intensity, and temperature.

Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si. explained the steps for hydroponic plant cultivation. The first step involved preparing tools and materials, seeding, making nutrient media, and transferring seedlings into the hydroponic nutrient media. Seeding was done in rock wool for about 4-5 days. Nutrient solution preparation involved mixing solutions A and B in a 5 ml/liter ratio. Participants practiced setting up wicks in hydroponic containers, preparing nutrient media, and transferring prepared seedlings into the Wick System hydroponic media. Harvest-ready bok choy from hydroponic cultivation was displayed as a success example, inspiring participants to apply hydroponic techniques at home.

The event was attended by 27 participants from the Sruni Village PKK, divided into five groups, each guided by a faculty member. Faculty members involved included Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc., Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si., Dr. Wiko Arif Wibowo, S.Si., and Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si. The community was enthusiastic about practicing hydroponics, finding it easy to apply at home and capable of meeting daily food needs, thus supporting self-sufficiency in food. The event aimed to contribute to Indonesia’s SDGs: (1) No Poverty; (2) Zero Hunger; (3) Good Health and Well-being; and (12) Responsible Consumption and Production.

At the end of the event, a discussion was held on the material covered, and a quiz with door prizes was conducted, increasing participants’ enthusiasm for answering questions about hydroponic techniques. Monitoring was also carried out on the compost and liquid fertilizer production from a previous event to evaluate and ensure the community’s consistency in reducing waste burned or disposed of in landfills by converting organic waste into fertilizer.

On Saturday, August 24, 2024, the Graduate Student Association (KMP) of the Faculty of Biology UGM held a Graduate Student Gathering (TAKSA) at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology UGM with the theme “Break Your Limit, Make Your Own Way” aimed to foster relationship among graduate students. The event commenced at 7:45 AM WIB with opening remarks from the MCs, Aryan Mustamin, S.Si., and Umu Intan Kinasih, S.Si., followed by the singing of the Indonesian National Anthem, the Gadjah Mada Hymn, and the Faculty of Biology March. Subsequently, opening speeches were delivered by Wahyul Fatwatulumam, S.Si., Chair of the KMP Faculty of Biology UGM; Dr. rer. Nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si., Advisor of the KMP Faculty of Biology UGM; and Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

The TAKSA event was preceded with a talk show led by Dini Iman Sari, S.Si., featuring Aryo Seto Pandu Wiranto, S.Si., M.Sc. as the speaker. He highlighted the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone to create new opportunities. He also stressed the value of recognizing one’s strengths, staying connected with close ones, and avoiding overthinking and unnecessary fear. Additionally, he urged the audience to embrace new experiences and take courageous actions, reminding them that achieving dreams requires hard work. The talk show concluded with a Q&A session.

The event then moved on to a sharing session and the presentation of the work programs and activities of each KMP division. Afterward, participants engaged in a game using the Quizziz app to determine the top three winners. That continued with a National Insight Test (TWK) game that involved three teams. The winner of the entire game round ends with the awarding of prizes. The closing of TAKSA ended with a prayer by Emi Suhaemi, S.Si., and photo documentation.[Author: KMP]

On Saturday, August 24, 2024, the Graduate Student Association (KMP) of the Faculty of Biology UGM held a Graduate Student Gathering (TAKSA) at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology UGM with the theme “Break Your Limit, Make Your Own Way” aimed to foster relationship among graduate students. The event commenced at 7:45 AM WIB with opening remarks from the MCs, Aryan Mustamin, S.Si., and Umu Intan Kinasih, S.Si., followed by the singing of the Indonesian National Anthem, the Gadjah Mada Hymn, and the Faculty of Biology March. Subsequently, opening speeches were delivered by Wahyul Fatwatulumam, S.Si., Chair of the KMP Faculty of Biology UGM; Dr. rer. Nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si., Advisor of the KMP Faculty of Biology UGM; and Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

The TAKSA event was preceded with a talk show led by Dini Iman Sari, S.Si., featuring Aryo Seto Pandu Wiranto, S.Si., M.Sc. as the speaker. He highlighted the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone to create new opportunities. He also stressed the value of recognizing one’s strengths, staying connected with close ones, and avoiding overthinking and unnecessary fear. Additionally, he urged the audience to embrace new experiences and take courageous actions, reminding them that achieving dreams requires hard work. The talk show concluded with a Q&A session.

The event then moved on to a sharing session and the presentation of the work programs and activities of each KMP division. Afterward, participants engaged in a game using the Quizziz app to determine the top three winners. That continued with a National Insight Test (TWK) game that involved three teams. The winner of the entire game round ends with the awarding of prizes. The closing of TAKSA ended with a prayer by Emi Suhaemi, S.Si., and photo documentation.[Author: KMP]

Thursday, August 8, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada held a workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the implementation of outcome-based education for Doctor in Biology Study Program. This event held in hybrid manner, at the Cakra Kusuma Hotel and via zoom meeting. Attended by all lecturers for the doctoral program, the workshop aimed to enhance the quality of education within the Faculty of Biology UGM.

In his opening remarks, the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., emphasized the importance of understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support the teaching and learning process. The event continued with a presentation delivered by Prof. Luke Daniels, Ph.D., from The College of Idaho, on Development of Doctoral Program to Address Global Challenges. Prof. Daniels highlighted the need for doctoral graduates to be innovative in their fields. Therefore, curriculum development must consider the strengths that already possessed by the university while also keeping pace with developments such as the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the quality of learning and research.

The 2nd session was delivered by the Director of Directorate of Academic Studies and Innovation (DKIA) UGM, Dr.Agr.Sc. Ir. Hatma Suryatmojo, S.Hut., M.Si., IPU. ASEAN Eng. The presented topic was “Utilizing Artificial Intelligence in Learning and Research”. Dr. Hatma commended the quick response of the Faculty of Biology to the advancements of the AI era in supporting educational and research, as well as community services.

In his presentation, Dr. Hatma highlighted the increasingly indispensable role of AI in teaching and learning activities. He explained AI can be effectively integrated to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. A point he emphasized was the role of lecturers in overseeing the use of AI to ensure its relevance. Lecturers obliged to stimulate and encourage students to understand and deepen their knowledge through further discussion. The Vice Dean, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., added that the Faculty of Biology UGM has already implemented the latest technology in drafting the Strategic Plan (Renstra) 2023.

The next session was conducted by the Head of the Sub-Directorate of Academic Studies DKIA UGM, Dr. Irwan Endrayanto, S.Si., M.Sc., on Simaster for Course Plan (RPKPS) and Portfolios. As an introduction, Dr. Irwan explained the standards of the learning process at Universitas Gadjah Mada, emphasizing the importance of assessment in the learning process.
Effective and efficient assessment requires well-structured RPKPS. Technology, such as the Simaster plays a role in facilitating the creation and management of the document. During this session, Dr. Irwan was assisted by Andri Andreas Priyanto and Muhammad Lathif Febriyanto, S.Pd., who guided lecturers through the practical process of filling out and preparing RPKPS and portfolios using the Simaster.
This workshop demonstrates the Faculty of Biology UGM’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education and the competence of lecturers in implementing the Tri Dharma of higher education particularly in the Doctoral Program, align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on providing quality and inclusive education (SDGs No. 4).

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 July 29, 2024, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a significant hybrid meeting for the parents of new students from the 2024 cohort. This event was attended by all parents, providing a platform for them to engage with the faculty and gain insights into their children’s academic journey. The meeting was led by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiyadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. who emphasized the importance of access to education and cultural diversity in shaping the students’ experiences.

During the meeting, various topics were discussed, including the academic processes that students will undergo throughout their studies. Prof. Budi highlighted the faculty’s commitment to providing a world-class education, which is supported by international collaborations. These partnerships not only enhance the learning experience but also open doors for students to participate in double degree programs, fast-track options, and student mobility and exchange programs.

The discussion also touched upon the importance of cultural diversity within the academic environment. Prof. Budi noted that exposure to different cultures enriches the educational experience and prepares students for a globalized workforce. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting inclusive and equitable quality education.

In addition to academic matters, the meeting featured a crucial segment on the dangers of drug abuse. Brigjen. Pol. Drs. Sumirat Dwiyanto, M.Si., the Head of the National Narcotics Agency of West Kalimantan and an alumnus of the Faculty of Biology, provided valuable insights on this pressing issue. He urged parents to remain vigilant and supportive in guiding their children through the challenges they may face during their university years.

Furthermore, the meeting included a presentation on the career prospects for graduates of the Faculty of Biology. Drs. Heri Susanto, M.M., Managing Director at Rentokil Initial for Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, shared his experiences and the skills that employers seek in graduates. He emphasized the importance of practical experience and how the faculty’s programs are designed to equip students with the necessary skills for employment in various sectors. Prof. Said El Salamouny from the Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Cairo University, explained the importance of Biology and its future prospects.

The hybrid format of the meeting allowed for a broader participation, ensuring that parents who could not attend in person were still able to engage in the discussions. This approach reflects the faculty’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, aligning with the SDGs’ goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
As the meeting progressed, parents were encouraged to ask questions and share their concerns. This open dialogue fostered a sense of community and collaboration between the faculty and families, reinforcing the idea that education is a shared journey. The discussions highlighted the importance of parental involvement in supporting students’ academic and personal growth.

The event concluded with a lively discussion session, where parents expressed their gratitude for the information shared and the opportunity to connect with faculty members. The faculty’s dedication to providing a supportive environment for students was evident, and parents left the meeting feeling more informed and empowered to support their children in their academic endeavours.

In summary, the meeting of parents of new students at the Faculty of Biology UGM was a successful event that underscored the importance of access to education, cultural diversity, and collaboration in fostering a rich learning environment. The insights shared by faculty members and guest speakers provided valuable guidance for parents as they navigate this new chapter in their children’s lives.

Plant embryology is a crucial parameter in botanical studies, including systematics, evolution, and biotechnology related to plant somatic embryogenesis. The natural or in vitro formation and development of embryos can analyzed through anatomical approaches. Analyzing plant anatomy requires special treatment and preparation of samples, necessitating a platform for discussion and training to update methods and share information.

The Plant Structure and Development Laboratory (SPT) at the Faculty of Biology, UGM, as part of its community service and to open collaborative opportunities, welcomed four researchers from PT. BISI International, Kediri, for a training and networking visit. These researchers, Esti Sri Lestari, S.Si., M.Sc., Ida Wilujeng Abidah Ubudiyah, S.Si., Lina Wahyu Hapsari, S.P., and Rahmawati Amaliah, S.Si., come from the Department of Biotechnology. The training took place over eight days, from August 22 to 31, 2024.

Dr. Maryani, M.Sc., head of the SPT Laboratory, welcomed the participants, and Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, officially opened the event on Monday, August 22, 2024, at the SPT Laboratory, Building B. In his opening remarks, the vice dean emphasized the importance of research collaboration in the current era. The training included lectures/discussions on plant microtechnique and embryology, hands-on practice preparing embryology slides, analysis, and independent lab work. Lectures were given by Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc., from the Plant Structure and Development Laboratory, with independent work supported for three days by lab assistant Ms. Prapti.

Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc., officially closed the event on Wednesday, August 31, 2024. In his closing remarks, he reiterated that the goal of this training extends beyond the eight days and should serve as the beginning of future research collaborations. He encouraged participants to share the benefits of the training widely and provide feedback to the Faculty of Biology, especially the SPT Laboratory, for any improvements.

This training supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in fostering partnerships and cooperation (SDG 17), and aims to benefit the general welfare of Indonesian society (SDG 3). Additionally, it aligns with the government’s program to enhance the quality of education (SDG 4).

Hopefully, this training became a kickstart of collaboration and research partnership between the Faculty of Biology UGM and PT BISI International. The knowledge and technical skills gained during the training would be valuable for participants and related institutions.

The prevalence of adverse drug reactions in Indonesia ranges from 0.9% to 99%, depending on the type of drug, duration, and therapeutic dose. Each individual can respond differently to the same medication due to varying genomic reactions. This concept is known as pharmacogenomics. However, the medical devices used in pharmacogenomics, such as sensors, often cannot reach certain areas within the body. Additionally, a significant challenge in genomic data classification is the vast number of individual genes, which can number in the tens of thousands. Meanwhile, medical devices are limited and often inadequate.

In response to these challenges, Feny, a biology student at UGM, proposed the development of an Integrated Machine Learning-Based Biosensor Pharmacogenomics System as an advanced treatment method for Indonesia under the guidance of Lecturer Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.Sc., Ph.D.. Her idea was presented at the National Student and School Essay Festival (Genesis) and won the Silver Medal. The competition held by the Fatepa English Community at the University of Mataram on July 6-7, 2024, featured 315 entries. The competition included several stages: submission of a full paper, creation of a presentation video, preparation of a PowerPoint presentation, and a live poster presentation before the judges.

Her innovation involves using biosensors to monitor molecular interactions in patient treatments real-time. These ingestible biosensors provide information about organs’ physiological parameters, allowing them to monitor the genetic profiles related to internal conditions and diseases. The approach employs a random tree classification model that predicts personalized drug responses, side effects, and the patient’s pharmacogenomic variants.

The combination of pharmacogenomic treatment systems with integrated machine-learning biosensors will enhance drug safety. Implementing this system in Indonesia will reduce adverse drug reactions and side effects. Healthcare professionals can quickly monitor patients’ drug intervention responses, enabling them to make the best treatment decisions promptly.
[Author: Feny Nur Nucifera]