IPB University Hosts International Biochemistry Seminar, Hundreds of Scientists Advocate for a Multidisciplinary Approach
IPB University, through its Department of Bio-chemistry, is hosting The 3rd International Seminar in conjunction with The 28th Annual National Conference organized by The Indonesian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ISBMB) at the IPB International Convention Center, Bogor (6/25-27).
This scientific forum is themed “Synergizing Agriculture, Marine Science, and Health Through Biochemistry.” The event brought together 270 participants from various universities, research institutions, and national and international private sectors.
The event chair, Dr Dimas Andrianto, welcomed the participants with great enthusiasm. He stated that this event reflects ISBMB’s strong dedication and collaborative spirit.
“We are very proud to host this seminar again in Bogor,” he said. The seminar, he added, reflects the urgent need for a multidisciplinary approach to address global challenges.
In his remarks, Dr Dimas also reported that the seminar series began with a genomics workshop on soil microbiome metagenomics. “We also hope that this activity can enhance the capacity of biochemists, particularly those focused on metagenomics,” he added.
The Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria, stated that biochemistry serves as the foundation for innovation across various sectors such as health, agriculture, food security, the environment, and biotechnology.
“IPB University remains committed to being a center of excellence in transformational research and nurturing the next generation of scientists,” he said.
Prof Arif explained that IPB University is known for its interdisciplinary approach in the field of life sciences. The faculties and research centers at IPB University integrate chemistry, biology, biotechnology, and environmental science to find real-world solutions, such as improving plant nutrition and developing plant-based pharmaceuticals.
The Department of Bio-chemistry at IPB University also makes significant contributions in the fields of enzymology, molecular biology, biochemistry of natural products, and metabolic engineering. This department offers accredited undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in biochemistry, recognized nationally by the Independent Accreditation Agency for Natural Sciences and Formal Sciences (Lamsama) and internationally by the Accreditation Agency for Degree Programs in Engineering, Informatics, Natural Sciences, and Mathematics (ASIIN).
“IPB University is a national leader in natural product biochemistry,” he added. Leveraging Indonesia’s rich biodiversity, Prof Arif explained, IPB University researchers are exploring bioactive compounds from medicinal plants, marine organisms, and agroindustrial waste to identify antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and enzyme inhibitors that could potentially become drugs and nutraceuticals.
The President of ISBMB, Prof Zeily Nurachman, stated that advancements in biochemistry heavily depend on interdisciplinary collaboration. “In a rapidly changing world, science cannot thrive in isolation. Agriculture, marine science, and health are closely interconnected, and all rely on the precision of biochemistry,” he said.
He added, “We are here not only as academics but as innovators addressing the world’s real needs. Biochemistry is not merely a science but a necessity for a sustainable future,” he said.
The symposium also featured the Chairperson of the National Research Institute for Marine and Fisheries Social Economics, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, A Rita Tisiana Dwi Kuswardani; and the Chairperson of the National Institute of Biomedical and Health Genomics, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, Indri Rooslamiati Supriadi.
Additionally, the symposium welcomed distinguished guests including Prof Thomas Gunter Pomorski from Bochum University, Germany; Dr Keni Vidilaseris from the University of Helsinki, Finland; and Prof Suzuki Toshisada from Kagawa University, Japan. (IAAS/FMT)
