HUMAS FAKULTAS FARMASI USU – The Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), has once again achieved an accomplishment in research through Mariadi, S.Farm., M.Si., Apt., who received funding under the 2026 TALENTA Research Program through the Basic Research Scheme. This achievement demonstrates the Faculty of Pharmacy USU lecturers’ commitment to developing innovative and applicable research that contributes to the advancement of pharmaceutical sciences.
The funded research proposal is entitled “Development of Modified Nata de Coco Bioselulose as an Excipient for Oral Solid Dosage Forms: Physicochemical and Functional Characterization Using Metformin Hydrochloride as a Model Drug.” The study aims to develop the use of nata de coco bioselulose as an excipient in oral pharmaceutical preparations through a scientific approach focusing on the characterization of its physicochemical and functional properties.
In conducting the research, Mariadi, S.Farm., M.Si., Apt. is supported by a research team consisting of Bayu Eko Prasetyo, S.Farm., M.Sc., Apt.; Dr. apt. Henny Sri Wahyuni, S.Farm., M.Si.; and Dr. Hetty Lendora Maha, S.Farm., M.Si., Apt. This multidisciplinary collaboration is expected to produce high-quality research outputs, strengthen the faculty’s research capacity, and contribute to the development of pharmaceutical formulation technology in Indonesia.
The development of bioselulosa as a pharmaceutical excipient has promising potential as it utilizes naturally derived raw materials that are abundantly available in Indonesia. In addition to potentially increasing the added value of locally sourced products, this research is expected to generate innovations in the development of safe, effective, and quality-compliant pharmaceutical materials to support the national pharmaceutical industry.
The successful acquisition of TALENTA Research Funding in 2026 reflects the growing research culture within the Faculty of Pharmacy USU. Through internal university research funding, lecturers are encouraged to conduct research that is not only oriented toward scientific publications but also capable of generating innovations that can benefit society, businesses, and the pharmaceutical industry.
This achievement is expected to motivate the academic community to continue developing innovative research, strengthening collaboration, and increasing the contribution of higher education institutions to addressing various challenges in the fields of health and pharmaceutical sciences.
This research achievement also aligns with the Faculty of Pharmacy USU’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Pharmaceutical formulation innovation contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) by supporting efforts to improve the quality of safe and effective medicines for the public. Research activities involving lecturers and the advancement of scientific knowledge support SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the strengthening of research-based education. The innovative use of nata de coco bioselulosa as a pharmaceutical excipient contributes to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by promoting technological development and innovation in the pharmaceutical sector. Furthermore, the value-added utilization of biological raw materials supports SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through the sustainable use of resources, as well as SDG 15 (Life on Land) by responsibly optimizing biological resources.
The entire academic community of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Sumatera Utara, extends its congratulations and best wishes to Mariadi, S.Farm., M.Si., Apt., and the research team on their successful receipt of the 2026 TALENTA Research Program funding. May the research proceed successfully, produce high-quality outputs, and make meaningful contributions to the advancement of pharmaceutical sciences, innovation in the pharmaceutical industry, and the improvement of public health.