The Tropical Biopharmaca Research Center (TropBRC) LRI-PGK IPB University once again held the Advanced Chemometrics Workshop and Its Applications in Metabolomics Research on 21–22 November 2025, conducted online via Zoom Meeting. The event began with a Pre-Workshop session on Tuesday, 18 November 2025, led by Dr. Dewi Anggraini Septaningsih, S.Si., M.Si., to ensure all participants successfully installed and prepared the SIMCA® (trial) software as the main tool for chemometric analysis practice. This workshop was attended by 35 participants from various prominent institutions, including Universitas Negeri Malang, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Universitas Gadjah Mada, Universitas Jember, Universitas Indonesia, Universitas Brawijaya, and many others.
The first day of the workshop opened with a presentation by Prof. Dr. Mohamad Rafi, S.Si., M.Si., on the Application of Supervised Pattern Recognition in the Development of Herbal QC Methods and Metabolomics Research. The next session, delivered by Dr. Rudi Heryanto, S.Si., M.Si., discussed the foundational concepts in developing supervised pattern recognition models in chemometrics. After a short break and lunchtime, participants gained deeper insights into the basic theory of PLS-DA and OPLS-DA techniques presented by Dr. Farit Mochamad Afendi, S.Si., M.Si. The first day proceeded intensively and interactively, with numerous questions raised regarding multivariate analysis concepts and their applications in metabolomics studies.
On the second day, participants explored the practical aspects of developing supervised pattern recognition models for metabolomics research guided by Dr. Rudi Heryanto and his team. This was followed by sessions led by Dr. Dewi Anggraini Septaningsih and team, introducing the SIMCA® software and MetaboAnalyst 6.0, along with hands-on practice in data preparation and PLS-DA/OPLS-DA analysis using both platforms. These practical sessions became one of the most appreciated parts of the workshop, offering participants direct experience in processing MS data. Toward the end of the event, participants also received additional information from the SIMCA® vendor before the workshop was formally closed.
The workshop received highly positive feedback from participants. Many expressed appreciation for the fast response, friendliness of the committee, expertise of the speakers, and the comprehensive theoretical and practical materials provided. Participants also highlighted TropBRC’s informative, communicative, and supportive facilitation throughout the workshop. Several emphasized the importance of continuing such training programs, as they are greatly needed by young researchers and lecturers developing their skills in metabolomics and chemometrics.
Through this workshop, TropBRC reaffirms its commitment to supporting the enhancement of research capacity in Indonesia, particularly in the fields of biopharmaca and metabolomics. It is hoped that this event becomes an important stepping stone for participants to produce high-quality research, broaden scientific collaboration, and contribute to strengthening the national research ecosystem. Keep learning, growing, and innovating—because beneficial knowledge is a legacy that never fades.
