The Biotechnology Research Center of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), in collaboration with the Biotechnology Study Program, Graduate School, UGM, organized the Biotechnology Workshop 2026 under the theme “Genome Editing for Sustainable Future: Hands-on CRISPR/Cas9, Genetic Transformation, and Agroinfiltration.” The workshop was held on October 22–23, 2026, at the Pusat Antar Universitas (PAU) Building, Graduate School, UGM, Yogyakarta. The event focused on introducing and developing practical skills in modern molecular biotechnology, particularly CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing, genetic transformation, and agroinfiltration.
The workshop featured four speakers with expertise in biotechnology and molecular biology: Prof. Waranyoo Phoolcharoen, Ph.D., an expert in plant molecular farming and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Baiya PhytoPharm at Chulalongkorn University, Thailand; Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc., an expert in plant biotechnology and genome editing at UGM; Prof. Dr. Yekti Asih Purwestri, S.Si., M.Si., an expert in plant biochemistry and genome editing at UGM; and Widhi Dyah Sawitri, S.Si., M.Agr., Ph.D., an expert in molecular plant breeding at UGM. Their participation provided scientific perspectives on advances in genetic engineering technologies and their applications in biotechnology research.
The two-day workshop featured complementary practical sessions. On October 22, 2026, the activities focused on CRISPR-based genome editing and genetic transformation, including in silico CRISPR/Cas9 design and recombinant DNA construction. On October 23, 2026, participants continued with training in agroinfiltration. The workshop also covered electroporation and ultraviolet (UV) visualization, introducing participants to additional techniques used in molecular biology research.
Through a hands-on approach integrating wet-laboratory and dry-laboratory activities, participants had the opportunity to learn about the principles and procedures of various molecular biotechnology techniques. CRISPR/Cas9 design represents an important step in planning genome-editing experiments, while recombinant DNA construction supports the development of genetic materials for research purposes. Agroinfiltration, meanwhile, can be used to introduce genetic material into plant tissues and is applied in gene expression studies and plant-based recombinant protein production.
The organization of the Biotechnology Workshop 2026 reflects the commitment of the UGM Biotechnology Research Center and Biotechnology Study Program to strengthening human resource capacity in modern biotechnology. Through practice-oriented training, the workshop aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of genetic engineering methods and enhance their readiness to conduct innovative and application-oriented research. These techniques also offer potential applications in agriculture, plant breeding, and the development of biotechnology-based products that address societal needs.
Through the Biotechnology Workshop 2026, the UGM Biotechnology Research Center and Biotechnology Study Program aim to continue promoting laboratory skills development, strengthening research capacity, and encouraging the responsible application of biotechnology to advance innovation and contribute to a sustainable future.
***
Faizatul Mufidah