Mastery of molecular technology, as it stands today, is crucial in addressing various challenges in health, environmental, and agricultural fields.
It allows for the rapid identification of pathogenic microorganisms, a deeper understanding of the genetics of specific species, and accurate ecosystem mapping. These applications support researchers in tackling issues at various scales, from cellular to ecosystem levels.
On Nov. 15-16, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (Biology UGM) held a mini-workshop highlighting key developments in molecular biology and the latest technologies in sequencing and metabarcoding data analysis. The workshop aimed at understanding microbiome composition and identifying organisms at the molecular level.
“Participants also had the opportunity to learn directly from practitioners and experts who are partners of Biology UGM,” said the Dean of Biology UGM, Professor Budi Setiadi Daryono, in a written statement sent on Monday (Nov. 18).
Professor Daryono mentioned that this mini-workshop, organized as part of the Biology UGM’s Research Day, involved several of the faculty’s leading laboratories, such as the Microbiology Laboratory and the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, to provide practical experience for the participants.
In the first session, participants learned about the Promega Maxwell Automated DNA/RNA Extraction and DNA QC using the Agilent Tapestation, essential for ensuring accurate research results at the molecular level.
The second session focused on ONT Sequencing and metabarcoding Data Analysis, explaining how to use the latest technologies in sequencing and metabarcoding data analysis to understand microbiome composition and identify organisms at the molecular level.
With the theme of Molecular Biology, this research day, according to Daryono, served as an event to disseminate research and community service outcomes while introducing the latest technologies in biology to the wider public.
“We want to highlight the importance of biology in human life, from molecular-level research to ecosystem dynamics,” he said.
The Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, and Collaboration at Biology UGM, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, noted that this research exhibition activity has strengthened cooperation between universities, industries, and the community, serving as a catalyst for research and innovation in the field of biology.
Meanwhile, Ririn Tri Nurhayati, Head of the Research Program Sub-directorate from UGM’s Directorate of Research, also attended and expressed appreciation for the successful organization of Research Day as a platform to benefit society through advances in knowledge and technology.
“Research Day is a platform to transfer knowledge related to technology to the public through a mini-workshop supported by advanced equipment,” said Nurhayati.
Author: Leony
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya