Muhammad Dicky Mandiri Nasution, a student from the Faculty of Animal Science in UGM’s Doctoral Program, received the valuable opportunity to conduct part of his dissertation research as a visiting researcher in the University of Miyazaki, Japan. This program is part of the International Publication Quality Improvement Program or Program Peningkatan Kualitas Publikasi Internasional (PKPI), organized by the Directorate of Resources, Directorate General of Higher Education, specifically for students receiving Master’s to Doctoral Education for Outstanding Graduates scholarships or Pendidikan Magister menuju Doktor untuk Sarjana Unggul (PMDSU).
The PKPI program aims to improve students’ ability to produce internationally reputable scientific publications through four to six months of research activities, both online and offline. During his time in Japan, Dicky was supervised by Takahiro Gondo, Ph.D., a forage plant genetics expert and host professor at the Forage Breeding and Molecular Genetics Laboratory, University of Miyazaki. He also continued to coordinate with the promoter team in Indonesia, namely Prof. Ir. Nafiatul Umami, S.Pt., M.P., Ph.D., IPM., ASEAN Eng. and Dr. Ir. Asih Kurniawati, S.Pt., M.Sc., IPM.
Focus on Elephant Grass Genetics and Molecular Genetics
Dicky’s research focuses on the molecular biology of forage and plant genetics, particularly on Pennisetum purpureum (elephant grass). Dicky is exploring genetic and cytogenetic analysis techniques to identify the genetic potential and physiological characteristics of elephant grass that can support the development of superior cultivars in Indonesia, particularly in the face of climate change and limited forage resources.
“My research activities are focused on plant genetics and molecular biology, aiming to support breeding efforts and improve the quality of forage,” Dicky explained on Friday (12/12).
In addition to working in the laboratory, Dicky actively participates in scientific discussions, academic meetings, and interacts with other international researchers and students. This experience has given him new insights into global research trends, the latest molecular analysis methods, and the disciplined and efficient Japanese academic culture.
According to Dicky, PKPI provided valuable experience in developing research skills, critical thinking, and adapting to an international academic environment. “This PKPI activity has provided many benefits for me personally, especially in developing research capabilities and expanding international collaboration,” he said.
This research supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals).
Through research on forages adaptive to climate change, this program contributes to food security and the development of sustainable feed technology.
Original article: https://fapet.ugm.ac.id/mahasiswa-doktor-fapet-ugm-jalani-riset-internasional-di-university-of-miyazaki-jepang/
Translated by: Sarah Suminar