Tiara Putri, a doctoral student from Yogyakarta pursuing a double degree program at the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (Biology UGM) and the Department of Molecular Genetics and Infection Biology, University of Greifswald, Germany, participated in the 77th Annual Conference of the German Society for Hygiene and Microbiology in Jena, Germany, on Sep. 22 to 24. The conference is recognized as one of Europe’s most prestigious gatherings in the field of microbiology.
At the event, Tiara presented her poster titled “Impact of pneumolysin, hydrogen peroxide, and Streptococcus pneumoniae strains on blood–CSF barrier integrity in a human choroid plexus co-culture model.”
The research offers new insights into the mechanisms by which Streptococcus pneumoniae, a human pathogen, disrupts the integrity of the blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier.
From among 188 participants worldwide, Tiara was selected as one of only five recipients of the Poster Prize.
“I am grateful to have received this award for my research poster,” said Tiara on Monday (Sep. 29).
Tiara explained that her research is closely tied to her experience in the double degree doctoral program, which has provided her with the opportunity to study in two distinct academic environments.
She emphasized that her doctoral studies at Biology UGM provided her with a strong foundation in biology. At the University of Greifswald, she was able to deepen her research through access to modern facilities and collaborations with professors from various research institutions in Germany.
“This combination has helped me grow not only academically, but also in critical thinking, cross-cultural collaboration, and resilience,” she said.
Despite the privilege of studying at two institutions, Tiara remains focused on her research, aiming to contribute to a deeper understanding of pneumococcal meningitis pathogenesis and open pathways for future therapeutic strategies.
“I want this research to be useful and impactful in the future,” she affirmed.
She admitted, however, that balancing her academic and research commitments with her responsibilities as a single parent abroad has been her greatest challenge.
Tiara expressed her appreciation for the conference organizers, who provided free childcare services throughout the three-day event with professional caregivers (Tagesmutter), allowing her to participate in the scientific sessions with peace of mind.
“It enabled me to focus better during the conference sessions,” she shared.
Tiara was impressed by the family-friendly concept of the international conference in Germany and the recognition of researchers’ needs as parents.
“I believe this shows that research and family can go hand in hand when the right support is provided,” she noted.
Concluding the interview, Tiara encouraged students and young researchers not to hesitate in pursuing big dreams and building international research collaborations.
“Challenges will always exist, but with hard work, strong academic support, and an inclusive environment, we can make real contributions and gain recognition on the global stage,” she said.
Author: Alena Damaris
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographs: Tiara Putri