The Master of Biotechnology Program, Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), successfully held a Proposal Seminar on Friday, May 22, 2026. The event took place at the 3rd Floor Lecture Room, Biotechnology Building, PAU UGM, and serves as an essential academic milestone for students in preparing their thesis research.
The seminar featured three Master’s students presenting their research proposals in the field of modern biotechnology, with diverse focuses ranging from molecular-based plant disease control to genetic analysis of fiber crops. The activity reflects the program’s commitment to advancing research that addresses real-world challenges.
The first session, held from 13:00 to 13:45 WIB, was presented by Retno Fikria Idil Adhyaningtyas with the proposal titled “The Effect of ALP and ATPsyn-β Silencing in Diaphorina citri Using dsRNA on the Titer of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus and Its Transmission to Citrus Plants.” This research investigates the application of RNA interference (RNAi) as an innovative strategy to control citrus greening disease.
The second session, from 13:45 to 14:30 WIB, was delivered by Bernike Rose, presenting “Microbe-Based dsRNA Production for Silencing the SIX1c Gene in Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (Foc TR4), the Causal Agent of Fusarium Wilt in Banana.” This study highlights the potential of microbe-based biotechnology approaches to manage one of the most destructive pathogens affecting banana crops.
The final session, from 14:30 to 15:15 WIB, was presented by Nafisa Qotrul Hidayah with the proposal titled “Genetic Diversity Analysis of Abaca (Musa textilis) Based on ISSR Markers and Cell Wall Biosynthesis Genes (CesA, XTH, CAD) and Its Relationship with Hemicellulose Composition and Fiber Mechanical Properties.” The research aims to support the development of high-quality natural fibers through molecular genetic approaches.
The seminar was conducted in an interactive and engaging atmosphere, encouraging discussions between students, faculty members, and participants. This forum not only evaluates students’ research readiness but also facilitates knowledge exchange and strengthens research quality in biotechnology.
Through this activity, the Master of Biotechnology Program UGM reaffirms its commitment to producing innovative and impactful research in agriculture, environmental sustainability, and biological resource development.