The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) at Universitas Gadjah Mada officially inaugurated Prof. Dr. Fajar Adi Kusumo, S.Si., M.Si. as a Professor in the field of Dynamic Systems on Tuesday (July 1, 2025), at the UGM Senate Hall.
In his inaugural address titled Dynamic Systems and Their Role in Cancer Prognosis, Prof. Fajar emphasized the significant role of mathematical modeling-particularly dynamic systems-in understanding the mechanisms of cancer progression and evaluating the effectiveness of its treatment. He highlighted how dynamic systems enable researchers to simulate complex cellular interactions, tumor growth dynamics, and responses to therapy.
Since 2001, Prof. Fajar has published over 18 scientific papers, most of which focus on the application of dynamic systems in the healthcare field, especially in oncology. One of his key research areas is oncolytic virus therapy, which uses viruses to target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues. Through mathematical models, Prof. Fajar explained how intercellular interactions influence the success of such therapies, including in benign tumor contexts.
In addition, he has developed models to investigate the role of enzymes in cancer development and to analyze the patterns and characteristics of cancer cells in cervical cancer and nasopharyngeal cancer, including at the tissue level. These models offer quantitative insights into disease dynamics and provide a basis for developing more precise treatment strategies.
Prof. Fajar’s research also includes modeling biomarker proteins involved in cell repair, as part of efforts to support early detection and preventive interventions. In 2012, he founded the Cancer Modelling Team, a research group composed of Indonesian and international lecturers and students. This initiative later contributed to the establishment of the Indonesian Biomathematics Society (IBMS) as a collaborative platform to expand the contributions of mathematics to biomedical sciences.
During his address, Prof. Fajar expressed deep gratitude to the mentors who shaped his scientific journey. He acknowledged Dra. Retno Wikan Tyasning Adnan, M.A., who first introduced him to the world of mathematical biology, as well as his mother, who was his first biology teacher. These two figures, he noted, planted the seeds of curiosity and love for science that have continued to grow throughout his life.
Following the official presentation of the Professor’s samir (ceremonial sash), Rector of UGM, Prof. Dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG(K)., Ph.D. stated that Prof. Fajar is now one of 56 active professors among the 76 professors who have served at FMIPA UGM, and one of 532 active professors across Universitas Gadjah Mada.
This inauguration reaffirms FMIPA UGM’s commitment to advancing science through interdisciplinary collaboration and meaningful contributions to society. Prof. Fajar expressed hope that mathematical modeling will become increasingly integrated into biomedical research and national health policies, supporting early detection, more accurate treatments, and disease prevention through a strong scientific approach.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by university leaders, academic colleagues, students, as well as family and close friends. This moment marks an important milestone in Prof. Fajar’s academic journey and a testament to his dedication to the advancement of impactful scientific knowledge.
Keywords: Professor, Dynamic Systems
Author: Shafira Fauzia Untsa
Photographer: Yehuda Dwi Yosafat