On 1 September 2024, the Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada proudly announced the promotion of Drg. Heni Susilowati, M.Kes., Ph.D., PBO to the rank of Professor in the field of Oral Microbiology and Immunology. Prof. Heni Susilowati, who has long been active in education and research, is now officially recognized as a Professor for her significant contributions to the development of scientific knowledge and innovation in the field of dentistry.
Prof. Heni Susilowati has had a long academic career. After earning her Bachelor of Dentistry (SKG) degree in 1996 and completing her professional education at UGM in 1997, she continued her doctoral studies at the Institute of Health Biosciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Japan, and graduated in 2008. Since then, she has risen in both academia and institutional management. She has led various research programs and held several key positions, including Head of the Department of Oral Biology, Head of the Integrated Research Laboratory, and Coordinator of the Dental Learning Center (DLC) at UGM.
In her statement, Prof. Heni emphasized that this promotion is not only an honor but also a responsibility to contribute more to dental science. "Through research in oral microbiology and immunology, I hope to help address fundamental oral health problems that are often overlooked but have a significant impact on public well-being," she said.
As a researcher focusing on molecular and cellular interactions in the oral microbial environment, particularly with the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Prof. Heni has inspired many students and young researchers. Her innovative research, such as the use of immunofluorescence techniques to map protein expression, has gained widespread recognition among global academics. Her publications in reputable international journals have helped strengthen UGM's name in the field of global dental research.
In addition to her research, Prof. Heni is also active as a national and international reviewer, playing a key role in improving the quality of health research in Indonesia. Her international experience, such as receiving the Fuji Otsuka Research Fellowship and training at JEOL Asia Pte, Ltd. in Tokyo, has further enriched her expertise as a scientist. These engagements contribute to SDG Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Such cross-country collaborations not only broaden scientific perspectives but also strengthen ties between global academic institutions, creating a broader network for impactful research results that benefit society.
As a leader and manager of the Dental Learning Center (DLC) at UGM, Prof. Heni is also involved in providing practical training for dental health professionals. Programs such as the Dentistry Skills Development Center and the formation of the Oral Cancer Working Group initiated in 2023, are designed to raise awareness and promote research in the field of oral cancer. With this spirit, Prof. Heni hopes to continue generating research that contributes to global oral health.
“This is not just a personal achievement, but the beginning of a new journey to explore further the fields of microbiology and immunology that have yet to be fully uncovered. I hope to continue collaborating with various parties, both domestically and internationally, for the advancement of science,” Prof. Heni added.
Author: Vona Prasmita
