18 June 2026
Threesna Sharfina
HUMAS FAKULTAS FARMASI USU – A proud achievement has once again been attained by the academic community of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU). Dr. Rony Abdi Syahputra, S.Farm., M.Farm., has successfully secured an International Research Grant from Kyung Hee University through the International Joint Research Type B 2025 scheme.
This accomplishment marks an important milestone in strengthening the international research network continuously developed by the Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU). The grant was awarded to support the implementation of a collaborative cross-country research project focused on advancing scientific knowledge and innovation in the fields of health and pharmaceutical sciences.
The research project is entitled “Synergistic Effects of Caffeine and Herbal Components: A Multi-Target Approach to Improving Exercise Capacity and Reducing Muscle Loss.” The study aims to explore the synergistic potential of caffeine and various herbal components in enhancing physical performance and reducing muscle loss through a scientific multi-target approach.
The research is conducted in collaboration with an international research team led by Kim Bong-il from the Department of Basic Science, Kyung Hee University. The team members include Bonglee Kim, Rony Abdi Syahputra, and Jung Hyun-cheol. This collaboration reflects a strong academic partnership between higher education institutions in Indonesia and South Korea in producing high-quality research with global impact.
Through this study, the researchers are expected to generate scientific findings that contribute to the development of innovative strategies for improving public health and quality of life. Furthermore, the research has the potential to open opportunities for developing more effective and sustainable natural product-based therapeutic approaches and healthcare products.
This achievement demonstrates the Faculty of Pharmacy USU’s commitment to supporting lecturers and researchers in actively participating in international research activities. Successfully obtaining an international research grant not only enhances the institution’s global reputation but also expands opportunities for academic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation development that can benefit society at large.
The involvement of Faculty of Pharmacy USU lecturers in international-scale research is expected to inspire the academic community to continuously improve research quality, expand global collaboration networks, and produce scientific works capable of addressing future health challenges.
This international research project contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being
The research focuses on developing scientific approaches to improve physical performance and reduce muscle loss, potentially contributing to better public health and quality of life.
SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
The study contributes to science-based innovation in health and pharmaceutical sciences, with the potential to generate new solutions for societal needs.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
The collaboration between the Faculty of Pharmacy USU and Kyung Hee University serves as a tangible example of international partnership in research development, expertise exchange, and the strengthening of global academic networks.
The Faculty of Pharmacy USU extends its congratulations to Rony Abdi Syahputra on this remarkable achievement and hopes that it will inspire the academic community to continue creating, innovating, and expanding research collaborations that make meaningful contributions to society and the healthcare sector.
USU Faculty of Pharmacy Witnesses the Destruction of Illegal Products as Part of the National Action for the Prevention of Certain Drugs Misuse
NewsUSU Faculty of Pharmacy Lecturer Receives International Research Grant from Kyung Hee University, South Korea
NewsFaculty of Pharmacy USU Student Wins Gold Medal at the 2026 PB FORKI Chairman’s Cup IV National Karate Championship
