Strengthening Genetics Research Capacity, Hasanuddin University Graduate School Welcomes Expert from the University of Antwerp
Dean of the Graduate School of Hasanuddin University, Prof. Sukri Palutturi, together with Prof. Nadiarti Nurdin Kadir and Natalie Van Houtte from the University of Antwerp, Belgium, during an academic visit aimed at strengthening research collaboration in genetics and laboratory management, Makassar, October 19, 2026. Is this conversation helpful so far?
Makassar, October 19, 2026 — The Graduate School of Hasanuddin University (SPs Unhas) continues to strengthen its academic and research capacity through international collaboration with the University of Antwerp, Belgium. On October 19, 2026, Natalie Van Houtte, Laboratory Manager at the University of Antwerp, visited SPs Unhas at the invitation of its Dean, Prof. Sukri Palutturi, to share her expertise in basic DNA analysis techniques and laboratory management.
The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to expand the benefits of academic and research collaboration between Hasanuddin University and researchers from the University of Antwerp. The collaboration involves Prof. Nadiarti Nurdin Kadir, Vice Dean for Academic Affairs and Student Affairs at SPs Unhas, alongside researchers from the University of Antwerp.
As part of the program, Natalie is scheduled to provide basic technical training in DNA analysis for students and early-career lecturers whose research interests include animal genetics, particularly fish genetics. The training aims to strengthen participants’ understanding of fundamental DNA analysis principles and their application in molecular research.
Prof. Nadiarti Nurdin Kadir explained that the initiative represents a strategic effort to translate international collaboration into tangible opportunities for developing the research competencies of students and early-career lecturers.
“Through this initiative, we aim to provide students and early-career lecturers with opportunities to learn directly from a partner with extensive laboratory experience. Proficiency in basic DNA analysis techniques is an important foundation for advancing research on biodiversity and aquatic resources,” she said.
In addition to technical training, Natalie will share her experience in professional laboratory management. This exchange is expected to broaden participants’ understanding of the importance of effective laboratory governance in ensuring systematic, consistent, and scientifically accountable research practices.
According to Prof. Nadiarti Nurdin Kadir, the advancement of DNA-based research must go hand in hand with improvements in researchers’ technical skills and laboratory management practices. Both are essential to maintaining research quality and sustainability, particularly in genetics and aquatic biodiversity studies.
“We hope this exchange of knowledge will support laboratory development and strengthen the readiness of early-career researchers to conduct genetics-based research, particularly on fish and other aquatic organisms,” she added.
As part of the visit, Natalie is also scheduled to deliver a guest lecture at SPs Unhas on October 23, 2026. The session is expected to provide an academic forum for knowledge sharing and discussion on DNA analysis and laboratory management in support of research development.
Through this initiative, SPs Unhas aims to strengthen its academic relationship with the University of Antwerp and establish a foundation for sustainable future collaboration. The exchange of expertise, development of early-career researchers, and advancement of joint research in genetics and biodiversity are expected to contribute to improved research quality and scientific progress.
