Copenhagen, 13 December 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has again taken strategic steps in strengthening academic and research networks in the international arena. This time, through a visit to the University of Copenhagen (KU), one of the best universities in Denmark and Europe. KU is ranked 100th in the QS World University Ranking and 40th in the fields of life sciences and medicine.

In an effort to initiate work, the The Faculty of Biology UGM team consisting of Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. (Dean), Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. (Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs), and Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, M.Biotech., visited the Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen on Friday (13/12).

On this occasion, the team met with Prof. Thomas Sicheritz-Ponten who is the director of the Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics (CEH). This study center studies the relationship between the host genome and the microbes that live with it. Microbes are no longer considered passive components, but play an active role in influencing the properties of the host organism. This comprehensive approach is referred to as the hologenomic approach, where the study of the genomes of host organisms and microbes is combined to understand their interactions, the role of these relationships in ecology and evolution, their influence on the development of life on earth, and also how to exploit these relationships for the benefit of humans. CEH uses advanced technology and computational methods to answer these questions through theoretical and experimental research.

Apart from that, the team also discussed with Assoc. Prof. Bent Petersen, who is part of the Computation Biodiscovery research group. Bent introduced one of their research projects, namely “Omics of the Rainforests”. In this research, Bent and his team integrated “omics” data with machine learning algorithms to explore the medical potential and biotechnological applications of biodiversity in the Amazon and Malaysian rainforests. It was on this occasion that the team discussed and explored opportunities to start collaborative research initiatives in Indonesia, through the Faculty of Biology UGM network and also the Indonesian Biology Consortium (KOBI). Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Budi invited Thomas and Bent to attend the International Conference for Biological Sciences (ICBS) which will be held in October next year. This invitation also provided an opportunity for Thomas and Bent to provide a workshop related to the computational natural drug discovery project.

The Faculty of Biology team also had the opportunity to discuss with Maria Bollerup from Nixie Expedition regarding research collaborations and joint expeditions with the University of Copenhagen. Maria and Nixie Expedition have previously been involved in many collaborative research projects in Indonesia, one of which is the Buteng Expedition together with ROLEX. It is hoped that this will be an opportunity for the Biology Faculty to expand its research collaboration with world partners.

This visit is an important milestone in the Faculty of Biology’s efforts to continue to improve the quality of education and research through collaboration with international partners, especially the University of Copenhagen. This collaboration also reflects the UGM Faculty of Biology’s commitment to supporting sustainable development goals, especially inclusive quality education (SDGs 4) as well as increasing recognition of global partnerships (SDGs 17).

Copenhagen, 13 December 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has again taken strategic steps in strengthening academic and research networks in the international level. This time, through a visit to the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), one of the best technical universities in Denmark and Europe. DTU is ranked 109th in the QS World University Ranking and 5th in the field of Biotechnology based on the Academic Ranking of World Universities (Shanghai Ranking).

DTU Biosustain, a flagship research center under the Novo Nordisk Foundation, was one of the focuses of this visit. This department plays a major role in creating sustainable solutions through the development of microbial cell factories. Since its founding in 2011, this department has given birth to more than 30 start-up companies in the field of biotechnology. This visit was made possible through a connection from one of the Faculty of Biology UGM teaching staff, Matin Nuhamunada, who has just completed his doctoral studies at DTU Biosustain.

In an effort to initiate further collaboration, the Faculty of Biology UGM team consisting of Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. (Dean), Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. (Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs), and Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, M.Biotech., visited DTU Biosustain on Friday (13/12).

The visit began with a discussion with two group leaders from DTU Biosustain, namely Dr. Pablo Cruz Morales and Dr. Sheila Ingemann Jensen. Dr. Pablo leads research in the field of Yeast Natural Products, with a focus on the exploration and modification of chemicals produced by fungi to develop new molecules such as medicines, sustainable fuels and polymers, in an effort to create a new era of environmentally friendly biochemical industries. Meanwhile, Dr. Sheila leads the Sustainable Microbial Applications group, which focuses on developing molecular tools for bacterial engineering to create efficient microbial cell factories for the production of chemicals from renewable resources such as lignocellulosic waste and CO₂ derivatives. This discussion discusses the potential for research collaboration, especially to accelerate bioprospecting of biological resources in Indonesia in a sustainable manner. This discussion also opened up opportunities for lecturers and students at the Faculty of Biology UGM to carry out research visits at DTU Biosustain.

Apart from that, the Faculty of Biology UGM team also met with Dr. Kai Blin, co-principal investigator from the Natural Products Genome Mining research group led by Prof. Tilmann Weber. On this occasion, the team gained insight into the importance of information technology (IT) infrastructure to support the development of bioinformatics research. For example, the antiSMASH analysis service, an antibiotic search software developed by this group, is supported by computing facilities in the form of 8 servers at DTU with a capacity of 784 CPUs and 3 TB RAM. AntiSMASH itself has been used more than 1 million times by various researchers from all over the world and has more than 6,500 scientific citations.

This visit is an important milestone in the Faculty of Biology’s efforts to continue to improve the quality of education and research through collaboration with international partners, especially the Technical University of Denmark. This collaboration also reflects the UGM Faculty of Biology’s commitment to supporting sustainable development goals, especially inclusive quality education (SDGs 4) as well as increasing recognition of global partnerships (SDGs 17).

Yogyakarta, December 13, 2024 – Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a farewell event for Student Exchange Program students on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Bong O Bong Grill, Gejayan. The event was attended by the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., Head of Undergraduate Study Program Sukirno, M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of International Undergraduate Program, Nur Indah Septriani, M.Sc., Ph.D., Manager of Office of International Affairs, Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.S., Ph.D., several representatives of lecturers, namely Mrs. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., Dr. Miftahul Ilmi, M.Sc., and Mukhlish Jamal Musa Holle M.Env.Sc, D.Phil., and some academic staff.

The event was opened by the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., who in his speech expressed his high appreciation to the students who had participated in this exchange program. He emphasized the importance of international experience as a strategic step for academic and personal development, as well as broadening students’ global horizons.

The Head of the Undergraduate Study Program Sukirno, M.Sc., Ph.D., on this occasion hoped that this student exchange program could continue to be implemented in the future, providing greater benefits for students and strengthening academic relations between universities in various countries.

The event took place in a warm and lively atmosphere, where one of the representatives of the exchange students, Nur Asma’ binti Mohd Asri, expressed her gratitude in Javanese for the opportunity given through this program.

This year, the Faculty of Biology UGM accepted 11 exchange students from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, and Toyo University. This program is a real proof of the efforts of the Faculty of Biology UGM in strengthening international networks and opening wider learning opportunities for students. The Faculty of Biology UGM hopes that cooperation with international universities will continue and grow, providing benefits for all parties involved. [Aulia]

The Kaohsiung International Invention and Design Expo (KIDE) 2024 serves as a prestigious platform for researchers to present and compete their innovations at the international level. Organized by the World Invention Intellectual Property Association (WIIPA) and the Taiwan Invention Products Promotion Association (TIPPA), KIDE 2024 took place from December 5-7, 2024, in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The competition featured 447 innovations from participants representing 31 countries.

The principle “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work” aptly describes the success achieved by two UGM Biology Master’s students, Syefrina Rosyada and Yessy Ratna Siwie, along with their interdisciplinary teammates Alan Mulana K. (Faculty of Engineering) and Sunardi (Faculty of Agriculture). Their collaboration resulted in a silver medal at KIDE 2024 for their groundbreaking innovation, the SEATTER (Seawater Converter).

The SEATTER project was inspired by the clean water crisis faced by residents of Jerowaru District in East Lombok Regency. The area experiences low annual rainfall and high sunlight intensity, which forces local communities to purchase clean water for daily needs. Addressing this challenge, the team developed SEATTER, a solar-powered desalination technology that converts seawater into clean, usable water. This innovation provides a sustainable solution for coastal communities struggling with clean water scarcity.

The SEATTER technology directly contributes to Indonesia’s efforts in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 6: Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. This innovation enhances clean water access for underserved coastal areas.

This remarkable achievement underscores the Faculty of Biology’s commitment to nurturing student potential and encouraging excellence at the international level. It is hoped that this success will inspire other students and young Indonesians to continue innovating, creating, and making meaningful contributions to science and global society.

The Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) iGEM 2024 team has once again achieved remarkable success at the Bioinformatics and Synthetic Biology (BIOS) 2024 competition, organized by Synbio.id. Competing virtually from August to December 2024, two of UGM’s leading teams Phytovac and Gamanthrax brought home an impressive array of accolades, including Best Presentation, Best Website, Best Poster, the prestigious Gold Medal, and the ultimate Grand Prize.

The UGM iGEM team consists of 19 interdisciplinary students, including eight talented members from the Faculty of Biology: Anandita Amalia Dewi (2021), Salma Rohmaniah (2021), Erwinda Dwi Chofifah (2022), Tan Rendy (2022), Angga Firza Pratama (2023), Geraldine Yara Amritasahmi (2023), Nauval Rajwaa Raysendria (2023), and Tsaqifa Zuhayra Emery Bagus (2023). The synergy among students from diverse academic backgrounds was key to the team’s success, fostering creativity and innovation to address real-world societal challenges.

Under the guidance of Dr. Yekti Asih Purwestri, M.Si., the UGM iGEM team adopted molecular farming as an innovative approach to develop therapeutic solutions for pressing health issues in Indonesia. Team Phytovac, led by Farrel Alfaza Marsetyo (Faculty of Medicine, 2021), introduced a project titled “Immunoinformatics Design of Virus-Like Particle-linked Dengue Vaccine for Expression in Nicotiana benthamiana System”, targeting the prevalent issue of dengue fever. Team Gamanthrax, led by Fahmi Ihsanuddin Jauhari (Faculty of Pharmacy, 2021), presented a project titled “In Silico Design of Plant-Based Anthrax Vaccine using Recombinant DNA Method”, focusing on the development of a plant-based anthrax vaccine.

Both projects successfully leveraged computational modeling and mathematical simulation technologies to design plant-based vaccines—groundbreaking advancements in biotechnology.
The BIOS 2024 competition featured a rigorous selection process, beginning with abstract submissions, proposal videos, website showcases, posters, and presentation videos from August 24 to November 10, 2024. Both UGM teams advanced to the final round on November 29, 2024, where they engaged in interactive judging sessions.

The journey culminated in the Grand Final on November 30, 2024, where Phytovac emerged as a grand finalist alongside two other top teams. In the final round, the teams presented their projects to judges and audiences. The competition’s pinnacle was marked by the Awarding Ceremony on December 1, 2024, where both Phytovac and Gamanthrax were crowned champions, earning multiple prestigious awards.

This outstanding achievement highlights the competitive excellence of UGM’s Faculty of Biology students on the national stage. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, relentless hard work, and a passion for innovation, the UGM iGEM team has proven that science and technology hold the key to driving sustainable and positive societal change.

Banjarmasin, November 27, 2024 – The Green Edge Lubricants team claimed first place in the Call for Business Idea category at the Greenovation 2024 organized by Bank Indonesia of South Kalimantan. The event drew over 400 participants, including innovative startups, industry experts, and academics. Green Edge Lubricants captured the judges’ attention with their groundbreaking eco-friendly lubricant derived from palm oil, outshining intense competition.

The team comprised Soen Eliora Valerie Natania (Biology), Dania Husna Huwaida (Chemical Engineering), and Khabib Abdul Aziz (Chemical Engineering). Soen Eliora focused on the product’s sustainability, emphasizing environmental compatibility, biodegradability of raw materials, and potential impacts on wastewater. Dania Husna Huwaida led the lubricant formulation, optimizing material composition for optimum performance. Meanwhile, Khabib Abdul Aziz designed an efficient production system, tailoring industrial-scale processes to ensure the product’s readiness for real-world implementation.

This innovative lubricant is tailored for cold rolling steel and metal stamping processes, which traditionally rely on expensive and environmentally harmful mineral oil-based lubricants. By incorporating biodegradable materials like oleic acid and synthetic esters, the lubricant reduces water consumption during cleaning processes by over 50%. Additionally, it offers superior lubricity, extending the tool’s lifespan while minimizing the environmental impact of wastewater.

“Biology is often perceived as unrelated to the industrial sector, but we aim to demonstrate its pivotal role in sustainability. My responsibility was to ensure that this product is not only efficient but also environmentally friendly, aligning with circular economy principles,” explained Soen Eliora.

Dania Husna Huwaida added, “Creating this lubricant faces unique challenges. It needed to meet high-performance standards while remaining cost-effective and easy to manufacture. Palm oil is the ideal raw material to achieve these goals.”

“Our focus was to design an adaptive, efficient production system to ensure the product’s readiness for industrial-scale application, meeting the demands of Indonesia’s market,” said Khabib Abdul Aziz.

The Greenovation 2024 participants have to present their innovative ideas and defend their concepts before a panel of industry experts, academics, and Bank Indonesia representatives. Teams were required to demonstrate both the economic and environmental impact of their products, tackling detailed technical questions.

“Every team presented great ideas, making the competition extremely fierce. We worked hard to highlight the technical strengths and sustainability of our innovation,” said Khabib.
With this victory, Green Edge Lubricants opens the door to further product development and potential collaborations with industry partners. Their lubricant is expected to drive a significant impact on Indonesia’s metal industry while contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

The Greenovation 2024 competition underscored the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration in developing impactful solutions. Green Edge Lubricants has proven that sustainability is not just a necessity but also an opportunity to build a more efficient, environmentally friendly future for industry.

Yogyakarta, November 29, 2024 – The Mine-Eye Gama team from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) secured second place in the Business Challenge Track of the Astranauts 2024 competition, organized by PT ASTRA DIGITAL on June 7, 2024. Competing against over 2,400 registered teams, Mine-Eye Gama stood out as one of the top seven finalists thanks to their innovative UAV drone and 3D LiDAR-based technology designed for real-time mining monitoring efficiency.

The team comprised Daniel Imanuel Manafe, Himawan Wicaksono, Stephanus Kevin Andika Rata (Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technology, 2022), Menliman Joyfal Gulo (Cartography and Remote Sensing, 2022), Sabila Hestuning (Management, 2023), and Soen Eliora Valerie Natania (Biology, 2023). Guided by mentor Jans Hendry, S.T., M.Eng., the team leveraged their multidisciplinary expertise to develop a comprehensive solution. Their system, built on a private broadband network, optimizes geospatial data acquisition in dynamic mining environments.

A Solution to Mining Monitoring Challenges
Representing the team, Daniel Imanuel Manafe explained that rapidly changing mining topographies often pose significant challenges to maintaining safety standards and productivity. “Traditional methods like terrestrial surveys are precise but inefficient for highly dynamic areas. Our system leverages UAV drones and 3D LiDAR to overcome these limitations,” he stated.
The technology enables real-time data acquisition using a private broadband-based control and transmission system. The vast data collected is processed and delivered to a specially designed Ground Control Station. This solution significantly reduces data collection and analysis time, providing operational advantages for the mining industry.

Collaboration and Valuable Experiences
For team member Eliora, a Biology student, participating in the competition was challenging and enlightening. “This competition was an invaluable experience. I hope more students expand beyond their comfort zones and expertise. That’s where the greatest opportunities can emerge,” she shared.

In addition to winning second place, the Mine-Eye Gama team gained access to numerous opportunities, including mentorship from industry experts, collaboration prospects with the Astra Group, and the chance to present their ideas to venture capitalists. Furthermore, the team will join the Astra Innovation Lab, a continuation program to develop innovative ideas and solutions in collaboration with top industry professionals.

“This competition has been a significant milestone for our team. We hope this innovation will make a tangible impact in the mining industry, particularly in enhancing efficiency and safety,” Daniel concluded.

Undergraduate students from the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University—Alifia Nur Hidayah, Ardiza Puspa Rahmaningtyas, Farah Ayu Kamayani, Hana Magista Qathrunnada, Tazkia Mahsya Syavira, and Luisa Ramyahastri Paramatatya—participated in an international human genetics conference. This conference was the 3rd Indonesian Society of Human Genetics (InaSHG) Conference, held simultaneously with the 2nd Indonesian Society of Genetic Counselors (ISGC) Annual Meeting 2024. In collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine at Brawijaya University, the event took place from November 21-23, 2024, at the Grand Mercure Hotel, Malang. With the theme “Genomics Medicine: Translational from Bedside to Bench to Business,” the conference emphasized a comprehensive approach to the development of medical genetics. The program included research presentation sessions aimed at disseminating the latest research advancements, innovations in clinical practice, and developments in genetics policy. These sessions were designed to optimize knowledge exchange, strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhance the professional competence of participants. The conference also featured symposia with speakers from prominent national and international genetics experts.

During the event, students under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc., and Indra Lesmana, S.Si., M.Sc., presented their research on the development of a Long-read Sequencing Application for Genotyping Hereditary Diseases in Humans. This research aims to develop an efficient genetic screening methodology for detecting various hereditary diseases, focusing on hemophilia A, obesity, thalassemia, and atopic dermatitis using long-read sequencing technology developed by Oxford Nanopore Technologies. The students gained valuable experience presenting their research at an international scientific forum, honed their scientific communication skills, and were inspired to further develop their research and broaden their knowledge about the latest advancements in genomics.

This research has significant implications, not only in academic contexts but also in supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3, which focuses on Good Health and Well-being. The contribution of this research to the development of genetics-based healthcare services represents a strategic step toward advancing the health system. The implementation of the developed technology is expected to have substantial impacts in several areas: optimizing preventive efforts and the management of genetic diseases, improving life expectancy for populations, and ensuring equitable, sustainable access to modern healthcare technologies.

On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), hosted a discussion titled “Alternative Mosquito Control Measures for Reducing Malaria Infections” at the Faculty’s Upper Meeting Room. The event, held from 9:00 to 11:00 AM, was attended by more than 30 participants, including lecturers and undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students. The session featured Micanaldo E. Francisco, a PhD student at Ehime University, Japan, and a lecturer at Lurio University, Mozambique, as the keynote speaker. The discussion was moderated by Atikah Fitria Muharromah, S.Si., M.Eng., a lecturer from the Entomology Laboratory, with Dr. Raden Roro Upiek Ngesti Wibawaning Astuti, DAP&E, B.Sc., M.Biomed., from the Animal Systematics Laboratory as the supervisor.

Micanaldo presented innovative approaches to mosquito control, emphasizing the role of a clean environment and advanced technology. One of his main experiments involved designing houses in Nampula District, Mozambique, with structural modifications such as doors, ventilation, windows, and roof eaves to prevent the entry of Anopheles mosquitoes, the primary malaria vector.

Additionally, Micanaldo elaborated on a drone and AI-based mosquito habitat and breeding site mapping method. This process involved:

This approach offers an efficient solution by reducing the time and cost associated with planning and implementing vector mosquito management programs. The method positively impacts public health by significantly lowering mosquito populations and the risk of malaria infections.

The discussion was interactive, with participants actively engaging through questions, reflecting high enthusiasm for these new technology-based methods. The Faculty of Biology UGM demonstrated its continued commitment to supporting global research relevant to public health and environmental sustainability.

The event concluded with remarks by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni of the Faculty of Biology UGM, who emphasized the importance of such discussions in fostering innovative solutions for pressing global challenges.

The approaches presented during this discussion contribute directly to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being: Strategies to control mosquitoes align with SDG 3.4 (reducing communicable diseases) and SDG 3.8 (ensuring access to essential healthcare services). SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation: Mapping mosquito habitats and identifying water bodies support better water resource management, aligning with SDG 6.6 (protecting and restoring water-related ecosystems). SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: The use of drones and AI reflects technological innovations supporting public health, corresponding to SDG 9.5 (enhancing scientific research and innovation) and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: Collaboration between UGM, Ehime University, and Lurio University exemplifies global partnerships for sustainable development.

This discussion represents a tangible step forward in addressing global health challenges through innovative and sustainable solutions.

Yogyakarta, 21 November 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada successfully held the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test, located in the Upper Conference Room and Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM. This activity followed the implementation of Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Training last Monday (18/11) and Tuesday (19/11), which was managed by the Biotechnology Competency Test Center (TUK) of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

A total of 18 participants were registered for the Competency Test. Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, Chief Executive of TUK, said in his speech that the participants came from various backgrounds, students, lecturers and researchers including from the Indonesian Education University (UPI), Gadjah Mada University (UGM), Riau University (UnRi), Medan State University, PPKS Bogor Unit, and PUIPT Microalgae Biorefinery UGM.

Chairman of LSP Agriculture, Drs. Surini Santoso, M.Si., was also present at the opening of the Level II Network Culture Competency Test Thursday (22/11). He expressed his appreciation for holding the Competency Test which was facilitated by TUK Biotechnology UGM. He added that this competency test can not only be used to support Main Performance Indicators (IKU) for lecturers or student competencies, but also to support university accreditation.

Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc. as Deputy Dean for Finance, Assets and Human Resources, Faculty of Biology UGM, was present to open the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test. Representing the Dean and other leaders, he expressed his support for the continuation of the Biotechnology Competency Test at the Faculty of Biology which is supported by the Agricultural Professional Certification Institute (LSP) under the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP).

The Level II Network Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test consists of three series of exams: written exams, practical exams and oral exams. The three exams are divided into two categories: regular and portfolio. The competency test is supported by assessors from LSP Agriculture, Woro Anondito S T., Ph.D. and Diah Purnamasari, S.TP.

The competency test closed with the announcement of the graduation of the 18 participants who took the competency test and were declared competent. Abdul Razaq Chasani as Chair of the TUK Faculty of Biology UGM expressed his appreciation as well as closing the implementation of the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test.

The implementation of this competency test is part of the UGM Faculty of Biology’s support for sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially in educational inclusiveness and contribution to ecosystem conservation. This competency test is expected to contribute to the competency of the participants and society in general.