Bandung, May 2026 — The spirit of internationalization within the doctoral programs of the Faculty of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (FTMD) at ITB continues to show promising progress. Gema Sukmawati Suryadi, a student in the Materials Science and Engineering Doctoral Program, is currently undertaking a Double Degree program between Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) and the University of Tsukuba, Japan. This program is part of the 2025 Doctoral Scholarship Program for Indonesian Lecturers (PDDI), funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia.

After completing the initial phase of her doctoral studies and research proposal at ITB, Gema officially began her international research phase at the University of Tsukuba in April 2026. This Double Degree program stands as a tangible manifestation of the international academic collaboration between FTMD ITB and the University of Tsukuba in the field of materials science and engineering.

“I am very grateful to be part of this Double Degree program. The experience of learning and conducting research in Japan provides a new perspective on functional materials research while opening up broader opportunities for international collaboration,” said Gema.

At ITB, Gema is mentored by Arie Wibowo, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. as her primary supervisor, while at the University of Tsukuba, her research is conducted under the supervision of Prof. Yohei Yamamoto in the field of Materials Innovation.

Research Focus: Developing Functional Biomaterials for Hair Growth Applications

Gema’s doctoral research focuses on the development of functional biomaterials based on biopolymers for hair growth and biomedical applications. The study explores the utilization of natural materials, such as keratin, to create innovative materials with the potential to support the regeneration and health of hair follicles.

Through a materials science and biomaterials engineering approach, this research integrates eco-friendly material development, structural engineering, and functional property characterization for future health and therapeutic applications. This research topic aligns with global trends in developing sustainable biomaterials and advanced functional materials, which are currently high-priority areas for various international research institutions.

International Research Experience and Academic Adaptation

Since arriving in Japan, Gema has been actively participating in various academic and research activities at the Yamamoto-Kushida Laboratory, Graduate School of Science and Technology, University of Tsukuba. In addition to laboratory experiments, she is adapting to the Japanese research culture through routine lab activities, group discussions, internal seminars, and academic interactions with international students and researchers.

According to Gema, the greatest challenge in international doctoral studies is not only the academic aspect but also the ability to adapt to a different research culture and work environment.

“Studying in an international research environment has taught me about discipline, scientific integrity, and the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration. I am also learning how to bridge fundamental research with the needs of real-world applications in the future,” she explained.

Gema added that cross-cultural learning is a significant value of the Double Degree program.

“This program is not just about academic mobility; it is a process of shaping the character of a global researcher who is capable of working collaboratively and adaptively in an international setting,” she added.

Student Privilege and Support for Internationalization

As an FTMD ITB student, Gema feels strongly supported in her international academic career development. Access to global research networks, faculty guidance, laboratory facilities, and administrative support for international activities have been crucial factors in her doctoral journey.

“ITB provides a very supportive academic environment for growing as a researcher. I feel I have been given many opportunities to get involved in international research and build a global academic network,” she said.

Through this ITB–University of Tsukuba Double Degree program, Gema hopes to contribute to strengthening research collaboration between Indonesia and Japan, particularly in the fields of functional materials and sustainable biomaterials.

“I hope this experience and research can make a real contribution to the development of material science and technology in Indonesia, while paving the way for more Indonesian students to excel on the global stage,” she concluded.

Student Profile: Gema Sukmawati Suryadi

• Name: Gema Sukmawati Suryadi

• Previous Institution: Politeknik Negeri Media Kreatif

• NIM: 33725002

• Program Double Degree: Program Studi Doktor Ilmu dan Teknik Material, FTMD ITB – Doctoral Program in Materials Innovation, University of Tsukuba

• Primary Supervisor (ITB): Arie Wibowo, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D.

• Supervisor (University of Tsukuba): Prof. Yohei Yamamoto

• Research Topic: Development of Biopolymer-Based Functional Biomaterials for Hair Growth Applications

• Double Degree Period: April 2026 – March 2028

• Expected Output: International scientific publications and the development of innovative biomaterials for health and sustainable functional material applications