Exploring Plant Metabolites Through GC-MS: TropBRC Holds National Workshop on Metabolomics Research
From Raw Data to Biological Insights: Strengthening Metabolomics Capacity for Indonesian Medicinal Plant Research
The Tropical Biopharmaca Research Center (TropBRC) IPB University successfully conducted the Workshop on GC-MS Applications in Indonesian Medicinal Plant Metabolomics Research on 2–3 June 2026 at Calina Rooms 1 & 2, CRC Building, Bogor. The program was officially opened by Dr. apt. Siti Sa’diah, M.Si., Secretary of TropBRC, and was attended by 28 participants from universities, research institutions, and industry representatives across Indonesia. Prior to the workshop, a pre-workshop session was held online on 29 May 2026 to prepare participants for the training activities.
Designed to strengthen research capacity in metabolomics, the workshop introduced participants to the fundamental concepts of metabolomics and the application of Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) in medicinal plant research. The scientific sessions were delivered by Prof. Dr. Mohamad Rafi, Prof. Dr. Nancy Dewi Yuliana, and Dr. Rudi Heryanto, covering topics ranging from metabolomics principles, GC-MS analytical techniques, data processing, metabolite annotation, data interpretation, and multivariate analysis. Participants also received updates on current GC-MS technologies and trends from PT. Berca Niaga Medika.
A key highlight of the workshop was the extensive hands-on training sessions. Participants gained direct experience operating GC-MS instruments, processing metabolomics datasets using MS-DIAL, annotating metabolites, and performing multivariate analysis through MetaboAnalyst. Practical sessions were supported by Laela Wulansari, M.Si. and Dr. Dewi Anggraini Septaningsih, M.Si., ensuring participants could follow each step effectively and apply the techniques to their own research projects.
The workshop received highly positive feedback from participants, who appreciated the quality of the speakers, the well-structured program, responsive organizing team, and practical learning opportunities. Through initiatives such as this, TropBRC continues to support the advancement of data-driven natural product research and contribute to the development of evidence-based medicinal plant science in Indonesia.
✍️ Author & Editor: Titis Arifiana
📸 Documentation: Team TropBRC