Chemistry for Molecular Design

My academic journey in Chemistry at ITB has been a defining foundation for my academic and professional development. The undergraduate program provided a strong and comprehensive scientific basis that prepared me to pursue advanced knowledge with confidence. Beyond delivering core concepts, the program cultivates analytical thinking, structured problem solving, and intellectual discipline. These fundamental skills proved essential when I later entered international research environments, allowing me to quickly bridge knowledge gaps and adapt to more demanding academic requirements.

Through ITB’s Bachelor–Master fast-track program, I was given the opportunity to accelerate my studies and engage in research at an early stage. This pathway not only deepened my theoretical understanding but also strengthened my research independence as a scientist. During my Master’s studies, I undertook a three-month research internship at the University of Groningen, the Netherlands, in the laboratory of Prof. Ben L. Feringa, the 2016 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, where I worked on novel bio-based molecular motors. Being immersed in a world-leading research environment has sharpened my scientific rigor and broadened my global perspective.

The ITB research facilities have also played a crucial role in shaping my development. Access to well-equipped laboratories and modern instrumentation allowed me to conduct high-quality research and become familiar with professional research standards at an early stage. This hands-on training provided not only technical competence but also confidence in designing experiments, analyzing data, and systematically and critically presenting the results.

Equally important is the academic culture at the ITB. Faculty members are highly approachable and encourage open discussions beyond the formal lectures. Conversations often extend to research ideas, interdisciplinary topics, and students’ long-term career aspirations. This supportive and intellectually stimulating environment fosters curiosity, confidence and resilience. The mentorship and constructive dialogue I experienced were instrumental in shaping my academic and professional goals.

The strong fundamentals, research training, and academic culture at ITB ultimately enabled me to compete on an international scale. The preparation I received allowed me to adapt quickly to demanding environments and ultimately contributed to my current position as a PhD student at KTH Stockholm, Sweden, where I am working on photocatalysis of bio-based materials. The ITB equipped me with knowledge, mindset, adaptability, and global perspective necessary to thrive in international research and continue contributing to the advancement of science.

Studying Chemistry at ITB has been a profoundly formative journey for me. I began my studies during the pandemic and completed my first three semesters online before returning to in-person laboratory learning. This experience led me to understand chemistry not only as a body of theory but also as a discipline that cultivates precision, resilience, and teamwork.

The opportunity to speak with RSC accreditors during the accreditation process was the starting point for my participation in a 10-week research program in the UK. This experience broadened my perspective on the international academic environment and resulted in a scientific publication from my research collaboration. Upon returning, I completed my undergraduate thesis on the development of ionic liquids for the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, which further strengthened my interest in organic synthesis for drug development.

Equipped with a strong academic foundation and the support of my lecturers at ITB Chemistry, I continued my master’s studies in Switzerland, in an environment closely connected to the global pharmaceutical industry. This journey has reinforced my conviction that my undergraduate experience in ITB Chemistry has been a crucial foundation for every step I have taken to date.

Studying at the Institut Teknologi Bandung, especially in the Chemistry program, has been one of the most transformative experiences of my academic journey. Guidance from dedicated lecturers, comprehensive academic resources, and access to advanced laboratory equipment have significantly helped me understand various phenomena in chemistry. Through the Chemistry Student Association (AMISCA), I was also given the opportunity to explore interdisciplinary fields, such as business and innovation, as an additional resource to apply chemistry beyond the classroom. With the spirit of innovation, my team successfully secured funding for our business idea through the PMWxTOP ITB program. These experiences and learnings have also led me to be awarded a scholarship for an exchange program at RUDN University, Russia, where I studied waste management. Enrolling in the environmental engineering department taught me how chemistry plays a role in every field. Altogether, this has led me to perceive chemistry not only as a science but also as a tool for creating a significant impact across various fields.

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