The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (Biology UGM) welcomed academics from the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, Leipzig University, Germany, in Yogyakarta on Thursday (Jul.10).
The visit marked an effort to explore international collaboration, including the development of a double degree program, wildlife research, and capacity building in conservation areas.
The Leipzig University delegation, consisting of Dr. Ahmed Abd El Wahed and Professor Uwe Truyen, was warmly received by Biology UGM leaders: Professor Budi Setiadi Daryono, Dean; Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni; Dr. Matin Nuhamunada, Secretary of the Office of International Affairs; and Dr. Abdul Rahman Siregar, Head of the Microbiology Laboratory.
Professor Daryono expressed his appreciation for the strong ties established between the Biology UGM and Leipzig University, particularly in research, training, and the organization of the International Summer Course.
Professor Truyen and Dr. Wahed also expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunity to revisit Yogyakarta.
“UGM continues to support the development of international networks and impactful research partnerships as part of its commitment to providing excellent education and research relevant to global challenges,” said Professor Daryono in a statement to journalists on Tuesday (Jul. 15).
During the meeting, both parties discussed opportunities for further cooperation, including the establishment of a double-degree program.
They also explored plans for collaborative microbiome research on Komodo dragons and capacity building at the Komodo National Park Office, which will involve the Biology UGM’s Microbiology Laboratory with funding support from the European Union. This plan follows a previous field visit to Labuan Bajo.
Additionally, Dr. Wahed discussed the potential for collaborative research in bioinformatics to support dry lab-based studies, aligning with the expertise of researchers at the Biology UGM.
Author: Rafif Rusmana
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Anisa Nurliana
Illustration: Flickr