IPB University Signs Cooperation in Biotechnology with Osaka University
Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria and President of Osaka University, Nishio Shojiro, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The signing ceremony was held on February 7, 2024 at the Creative Innovation Building, Osaka University, Japan. Considering Prof Nishio Shojiro was not present during the ceremony, the signing was witnessed by Prof Manabu Tanaka (Executive Vice President of Global Engagement), Prof Beverley-Anne Yamamoto (Executive Vice President of International Affairs (Education) – Osaka University) and Prof Deni Noviana (Vice Rector for Education and Student Affairs of IPB University).
Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria said, “In the MoU, the agreed cooperation includes the establishment of a research consortium in the field of biotechnology which includes aspects of food and health.” He said there were three themes that would become research domains in the consortium, namely the exploration of natural resources for the needs of functional and pharmaceutical food development; integrative molecular biotechnology; and integration of cell culture, precision medicine, advanced diagnostics, and advanced drug delivery.
“Specifically for this last topic domain, the approach will involve research related to stem cells, genome sequencing and mapping, biomarker identification, bioinformatics for precision medicine, biomaterials and multimodal diagnostic devices,” said the Rector of IPB University. According to him, this cooperation will be followed up by Prof Anas M Fauzi (Head of the International Research Institute of Advanced Technology) and Prof Azis Boing Sitanggang (Secretary of the International Research Institute of Food, Nutrition, and Health) with Prof Kazuhito Fujiyama as Director of the International Center for Biotechnology – Osaka University.
Furthermore, Rector of IPB University said that the cooperation between IPB University and Osaka University also includes academic exchange. “IPB University and Osaka University agreed to cooperate in terms of collaborative lectures, symposiums, exchange of staff and researchers, as well as exchange of undergraduate and graduate students,” said Rector.
For student exchange, he said, it is proposed that every year, a maximum of five students can conduct exchange programs at partner institutions. “Students from IPB University can study at Osaka University International Certificate Program (hereinafter referred to as “OUICP”). On the other hand, students from Osaka University can study in international programs offered at IPB University,” explained Rector of IPB University.
Prof Arif Satria also emphasized that the collaboration between IPB University and Osaka University will benefit research and academic activities at both universities, reflecting a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and overcoming global challenges through meaningful partnerships. (IAAS/SNI)
