On February 26, 2025, the Department of Physics at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, proudly hosted a General Lecture featuring three distinguished scholars from the Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), Japan. The event was held at the RMJT Soehakso Auditorium, FMIPA UGM, from 8:00 to 9:30 AM WIB, attracting faculty members, researchers, and students eager to gain insights into cutting-edge developments in material science.

The lecture featured presentations by Prof. Hiroyuki Katsuki, Prof. Mikiya Fujii, and Associate Prof. Yaxiaer Yalikun, each bringing their unique expertise and research focus. Prof. Katsuki discussed the modification of material properties through the formation of polaritonic states, shedding light on innovative ways to manipulate materials at the quantum level. Prof. Fujii presented on data-driven materials science, emphasizing how artificial intelligence and machine learning are transforming research methodologies and accelerating discoveries in materials science. Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Yalikun explored advancements in micro and nano-scale material processing using ultra-short pulse lasers, highlighting the potential applications of these technologies in various scientific and industrial fields.

This General Lecture provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and fostered international collaboration between UGM and NAIST. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with the speakers during a Q&A session, deepening their understanding of these advanced topics. The event also underscored UGM’s commitment to promoting high-quality education and research by connecting its academic community with global experts.

Overall, the lecture was a resounding success, inspiring participants to explore new frontiers in material science and encouraging further academic partnerships. The Department of Physics looks forward to hosting similar events in the future to continue enriching the learning environment and research capabilities of its members.

On April 23, 2025, the Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada proudly announced the graduation of three doctoral students who have successfully completed their studies and defended their dissertations. The three graduates are:

• Dr. Wiwien Andriyanti

• Dr. Rohima Wahyu Ningrum

• Dr. Emmistasega Subama

This graduation ceremony marks a significant milestone, celebrating the academic achievement and unwavering dedication of these students in completing their doctoral education in the field of physics. With the completion of their studies, these newly conferred doctors are expected to make meaningful contributions to the advancement of science and technology, particularly in the field of physics, both nationally and internationally.

The Department of Physics at UGM extends its heartfelt congratulations to the graduates on this remarkable achievement and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors in research and education. May this accomplishment serve as a source of inspiration for other students to remain passionate in their pursuit of knowledge and personal development.

This news publication also aims to provide official information and documentation to the academic community and the public regarding the outstanding academic achievements of students from the Department of Physics at UGM.

From April 21 to 24, 2025, doctoral students from the Department of Physics at Universitas Gadjah Mada, namely Kurnia and Sudarmono, actively participated in the International Conference of Asian Union of Magnetics Societies (IcAUMS) 2025, held at the Okinawa Convention Center in Okinawa, Japan. This prestigious conference serves as a major platform for researchers, scientists, and engineers from across Asia and beyond to share the latest advancements and breakthroughs in the field of magnetism and magnetic materials.

The IcAUMS 2025 conference featured a wide range of topics including spintronics, magnetic nanomaterials, magnetic sensors, and biomedical applications of magnetics. It provided an excellent opportunity for participants to present their research findings, engage in scientific discussions, and establish valuable collaborations with international experts.

In addition to the doctoral students, the conference was also attended by master’s students Siti Fatimah Azzahro and Husna Ajrina, who are part of the same research group known as ES-Club. Their joint participation highlights the strong collaborative spirit within the group, fostering knowledge exchange and mentorship between different academic levels.

The delegation from UGM was accompanied and guided by Prof. Dr. Eng. Edi Suharyadi, whose expertise and support were instrumental in maximizing the benefits of this international exposure for the students.

Overall, the participation of UGM students in IcAUMS 2025 not only enhanced their academic and research capabilities but also strengthened the university’s presence in the global scientific community. This experience is expected to inspire further innovation and collaboration in the field of magnetics research.

During the conference, the students were accompanied by Prof. Dr. Eng. Edi Suharyadi, S.Si., M.Eng., who provided academic guidance and support. The presence of their supervisor was crucial to ensure the smooth participation of the students and to help them maximize the benefits of this international conference.

IcAUMS 2025 is organized by the Asian Union of Magnetics Societies (AUMS) and serves as a premier platform for scientific discussions related to magnetism, magnetic materials, and their applications. The conference gathers researchers, engineers, and experts from across Asia and beyond to share the latest advancements, foster collaborations, and promote innovation in the field.

The participation of UGM students in this event not only enhances their academic experience but also strengthens the university’s presence in the global scientific community.

The Motivation and Academic-Research Resilience Workshop was held with the primary aim of providing mental support and strengthening the resilience of doctoral students at the Department of Physics, Universitas Gadjah Mada. This initiative responded to the various challenges often faced by PhD students throughout their demanding and dynamic academic and research journeys. In the context of higher education—especially at the doctoral level—strong motivation and the ability to persevere through academic and research-related obstacles are critical factors for academic success and scientific productivity (Department of Physics UGM).

Lasting approximately one and a half hours, the workshop was attended by around 30 doctoral students who participated enthusiastically. They actively engaged with the speaker, learning practical strategies such as mindfulness, time management, and the importance of social support networks in managing psychological stress during the doctoral research process. Mandatory attendance emphasized the institution’s strong commitment to enhancing both academic quality and students’ psychological well-being. The workshop also fostered solidarity and peer support among students, helping to build a healthier and more productive academic environment.

In conclusion, the workshop successfully met its objectives by equipping physics PhD students with the knowledge and skills needed to face the challenges of their studies with confidence and mental resilience. Its positive impact is expected to be long-lasting, enhancing intrinsic motivation, stress management skills, and research productivity. Furthermore, this event reinforced a culture of collaboration and support within the Department of Physics, preparing a new generation of doctoral researchers who are not only intellectually capable but also mentally and emotionally resilient—ready to face future challenges with determination and optimism.

Held on February 27, 2025, in Meeting Room 1 of the Department of Physics, the workshop featured Dr. Ajeng Kusumaningtyas Pramono, an experienced young biomedical researcher. The event not only focused on motivational aspects but also emphasized the importance of academic and research resilience as essential mental assets in coping with pressure, setbacks, and challenges throughout the doctoral journey. Delivered through an interactive format—combining presentations, discussions, and Q&A sessions—the workshop created an engaging and participatory atmosphere. Participants were guided to understand stress management techniques, maintain a balance between academic and personal life, and build a positive mindset to recover from failures.

The Department of Physics at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has achieved international recognition again. Nugraheni Puspita Rini, a doctoral student in Physics at UGM, won the “Best Oral Presentation” award at the prestigious International Symposium on Advanced Magnetic Materials and Applications (ISAMMA) 2024. The event, held in Vietnam from August 4-8, 2024, attracted 300 participants from 20 countries.

ISAMMA, a biennial symposium, provides a platform for scientists and researchers to present the latest innovations and research in magnetic materials. This year, Nugraheni impressed the judges with her presentation titled “Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamin B using Green Synthesized Fe3O4/rGO/ZnO Magnetic Nanocomposite Utilizing Moringa Oleifera and Amaranthus Viridis Leaf Extract.” Her research explores the use of eco-friendly magnetic nanocomposites to degrade Rhodamin B dye, utilizing Moringa and Red Amaranth leaf extracts as key components in the synthesis.

Nugraheni’s success in this research not only makes a significant contribution to the field of magnetic materials but also aligns strongly with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Her research supports several SDGs, including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). By developing effective technology for degrading pollutants like Rhodamin B, her research contributes to maintaining clean water and adequate sanitation. The innovation in using natural materials for synthesizing magnetic nanocomposites reflects advancements in environmentally friendly technology that can support sustainable industrial development. Using natural materials such as Moringa and Red Amaranth leaves also demonstrates a commitment to sustainable and responsible production practices.

Nugraheni’s achievement brings pride not only to herself but also to the UGM Physics Department and the entire academic community. This success demonstrates the quality of research and innovation produced by UGM students, showing they can compete internationally and support global sustainability goals. It is hoped that this achievement will inspire all students and researchers to continue creating and achieving for a better and sustainable future.

Authors: Rafida Salma Rahmawati, Dina Wardiningsih

Photos: ISAMMA 2024 Delegates

Yogyakarta, July 16, 2024 – The Physics Doctoral Program of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) organized a “Writing and Motivation Workshop for Doctoral Students” held in Room A106 of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) UGM. This event aimed to improve scientific writing skills and motivate doctoral students to achieve academic success and career advancements post-graduation.

The workshop began with registration and opening remarks from Prof. Dr. Eng. Edi Suharyadi, S.Si., M.Eng., the Head of the Physics Department. This was followed by Prof. Sholihun, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D.Sc., Head of the Doctoral Program in Physics, who presented program-related materials, from study schemes to dissertations, followed by a Q&A session.

After a coffee break, the first session, titled “Scientific Writing Strategies,” was delivered by Dr. Riris Istighfari Jenie, M.Si., Apt. Dr. Riris provided steps and tips for writing a good and correct scientific manuscript. She also explained the structure of scientific publications, challenges, and strategies to be prepared, based on her experience. The participants were enthusiastic during the Q&A session.

In the second session, I Made Andi Arsana, S.T., M.E., Ph.D. presented on “Strategies and Motivation for Doctoral Students to Achieve Academic Success and Post-Graduation Careers.” He packaged the doctoral education journey into an engaging allegory.

“With a Ph.D., you contribute to the expansion of human knowledge. This is what we call Novelty. You see the world of knowledge has significantly evolved,” said I Made Andi.

He also shared 10 tips on winning in academic and professional life after earning a doctorate. This session also featured an interactive Q&A.

Following this, Dr. Dwi Nugraheni Rositawati shared her experiences and insights from her academic journey during the alumni session. Dr. Dwi Nugraheni discussed various optimization processes in pursuing a Ph.D., organized into three phases: the initial phase, the middle phase, and the final phase.

Marking the end of this insightful and educational event, the workshop concluded with a group photo. This workshop supports several SDG pillars by ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. By enhancing scientific writing skills and academic motivation, this workshop helps doctoral students achieve better academic performance. It also encourages innovation and research that can contribute to the development of sustainable industries and infrastructure. The participants are expected to produce relevant and beneficial research for technological and industrial advancement. This event also reflects a strong partnership between lecturers, alumni, and students in striving for a common goal of improving education and research quality.

Author: Rafida Salma Rahmawati

Photos: Rafida Salma Rahmawati

Wednesday, June 12, 2024 – The Department of Physics at UGM, together with Himpunan Mahasiswa Pascasarjana Fisika (HMPF), once again held a webinar to get to know more about the postgraduate program in Physics. This online event, conducted via Zoom Meeting, was attended by around 60 participants and featured speakers who are experts in their fields.

The event began with a welcome and presentation by Prof. Dr. Eng. Edi Suharyadi, S.Si., M.Eng., as the Head of the Department of Physics, followed by presentations about the study programs by the heads of the master’s and doctoral programs. In this session, participants were given a comprehensive overview of the study programs, including academic information such as curriculum, study plans, research opportunities, the Double-Degree Program (DDP), and scholarship information (specifically for the master’s program).

Students and alumni of the graduate program also attended the webinar to share their experiences while studying in the graduate program. Yosephine, an alumnae of the UGM Master’s Program in Physics who also participated in the Double-Degree Program, shared that she faced difficulties regarding her departure to Kanazawa University for a few months due to quarantine.

“The most memorable experience when participating in the DDP was getting to know the educational culture there and expanding my network. This opened up opportunities for me to pursue doctoral education in Japan,” said Yosephine.

“Even though it’s remote, I was greatly assisted by the lecturers, especially my advisor, and also the responsive administrative staff. The bureaucracy process has been significantly streamlined in the Doctoral Program, allowing for a greater focus on substantive matters,” said Ravidho, a student in the doctoral program by research.

Sharing session with the Head of Master & Doctoral Study Program, students and alumni

The Research Talk session was opened by Dr.rer.nat. Wiwit Suryanto, S.Si., M.Si., who presented an interesting topic titled “Dari Fisikawan menjadi CEO: Meraih Gelar Pascasarjana Fisika untuk Memimpin Inovasi dalam Startup Teknologi.” He explained that as a physicist, there are several basic skills that can be honed to become valuable in the startup world, such as deep understanding, problem-solving prowess, research and development, interdisciplinary sharpness, technological fluency, and critical thinking. It is hoped that through the master’s and doctoral programs at UGM, ‘chiefs’ can be developed to foster startup embryos.

Dr. Eng. Rinto Anugraha NQZ, S.Si., M.Si. continued with a presentation on the topic “Some Applications of Computational Physics in Fields Outside of Physics” in the second Research Talk session. He explained that computational physics can be applied in various fields, including those outside of physics, such as positional astronomy, light pollution, opinion dynamics in sociophysics, and econophysics.

Presentation of material at the Research Talk session by Dr.rer.nat. Wiwit Suryanto, S.Si., M.Si. and Dr. Eng. Rinto Anugraha NQZ, S.Si., M.Si.

The sharing session and Research Talk in this webinar support the SDGs’ pillars 4, 9, and 11. Participants were invited to learn more about the UGM Graduate Program in Physics in order to support sustainable education, including building various skills during their studies. Through this seminar, it is also hoped that UGM graduate program alumni can enhance inclusive and sustainable industrialization, whether through technology startups or other development planning.

Author: Rafida Salma Rahmawati

Photos: HMPF UGM