Visit of the University of Groningen to FKG UGM
Dr. drg. Ananto Ali Alhasyimi, MDSc, Sp.Ort(K), Head of the FKG UGM Research Unit, presented the research progress of FKG UGM:
- FKG UGM Research Roadmap: Scientific Breakthroughs, Industrial Potential Projects, Public Health Systems, Dentistry Innovation Pipeline
- Main Research Focus: Regenerative medicine and biomaterials; aging dentistry; patient-centered care; AI, imaging, and machine learning; orthodontics and quality of life for cleft palate patients; data-driven public health dentistry
- FKG UGM research shows a steady increase in publications over the past five years and ranks among the highest in citation effectiveness by field category.
Ongoing Flagship Collaborations (UGM–Groningen)
Dental materials & composite resin science
Cleft palate orthodontics
3D printing & bioprinting for maxillofacial reconstruction
Oral microbiome research
Healthy aging medicine
Biomedical engineering & biomimicry research cluster
The University of Groningen also emphasized expert regeneration, with retiring senior professors being replaced by younger academics with stronger research momentum.
New Collaboration Offers from the University of Groningen to FKG UGM
1. Double PhD Program
Full flexibility for UGM candidates, with a minimum requirement of six months of research in Groningen.
2. Joint Supervision for Doctoral and Master’s Programs
Particularly in orthodontics, conservative dentistry, biomaterials, bioprinting, public health, and AI in dentistry.
3. Bachelor-Level Research Mobility
Despite Groningen’s undergraduate programs being taught in Dutch, UGM students may participate in short research stays, mini projects, laboratory immersion, and e-learning modules.
4. AI and Health Technology Collaboration
Through the new AI Factory Groningen research center and the HETRIC consortium in synergy with FKG UGM.
Agreed Priority Areas
A. 3D Printing & Bioprinting for Maxillofacial Reconstruction
B. Oral Microbiome & Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
C. AI for Imaging, Diagnostics & Treatment Planning
D. Tropical Biomaterials & Natural Resources from Indonesia
E. Digital Dentistry & Clinical Innovation
Conclusion of the University of Groningen–FKG UGM Meeting
1. Revitalizing a 25-year collaboration network
2. Signing a new academic agreement
3. Initiating double degree and double PhD programs
4. Developing biomaterial, AI, and bioprinting research
5. Supporting NCD projects in Indonesia’s primary healthcare system
6. Preparing joint international grant proposals
FKG UGM and the University of Groningen agreed to continue technical discussions in a subsequent session led by drg. Margareta Rinastiti, M.Kes., Sp.KG. Subsp.KR(K)., Ph.D, Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources at FKG UGM, focusing on research matchmaking and doctoral supervision determination.
This UGM–University of Groningen meeting not only demonstrated the continuity of strong international academic relations but also paved the way for innovative cross-disciplinary collaboration—from medicine and biomedical engineering to health technology, artificial intelligence, and the development of Indonesia’s natural materials.
By complementing each other’s research strengths and resources, both institutions are now entering a new phase: creating global health innovations based on science, technology, and long-term partnerships.
(Andri Wicaksono, Photo: Fajar Budi Harsakti)
