Breaking Barriers: Alvi Kusuma Wardani’s Quest for Pharmaceutical Discovery

Engaging with the world often takes diverse forms, and for Alvi Kusuma Wardani, this has meant venturing into the realm of pharmaceutical research to combat parasitic infections. Her passion for drug discovery began during her undergraduate studies and has since driven her to explore innovative solutions to global health challenges.

A lecturer at Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram in West Nusa Tenggara, Alvi has been pursuing her PhD at the University of Queensland since 2023 through the Australia Awards Scholarships, focusing on marine drug discovery within molecular biochemistry. She chose Queensland due to its strong reputation in marine biology and cutting-edge research infrastructure, particularly through the Institute of Molecular Bioscience.

Her journey into infectious disease research began in 2015 while completing her master's degree at the University of Indonesia. "My focus at that time was on infectious diseases. I did research on anti-HIV drugs," she explained. Her study, which examined the inhibitory effects of Erythrina variegata L. leaves on HIV reproduction, was later published in the Journal of Young Pharmacists in 2018, reflecting her early contributions to the field.

Building on this foundation, Alvi has expanded her focus in Queensland to explore parasitic drug development. This work is closely linked to funding and collaborations with Boehringer Ingelheim, a German pharmaceutical company. "In Australia, drug activity testing requires rigorous certification. That’s why activity testing here is carried out directly by certified pharmaceutical drug companies."

A Boost Through the Hadi Soesastro Prize

To further her research and professional development, Alvi applied for and successfully received the prestigious Hadi Soesastro Prize, awarded to Australia Awards scholars pursuing PhD programs. She used the grant to attend two key conferences in 2024: Biomolecular Horizons in Melbourne and the 7th International Conference on Advanced Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science (ICAPPS) in Yogyakarta.

To advance her research and professional development, Alvi applied for and was awarded the prestigious Hadi Soesastro Prize, granted to Australia Awards scholars pursuing PhD programs. She utilised the grant to attend two key conferences in 2024: Biomolecular Horizons in Melbourne and the 7th International Conference on Advanced Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science (ICAPPS) in Yogyakarta.

"The Prize can also be used to fund research. But since my research already has funding, it is recommended that I focus on seminars or other related activities," Alvi said. These events provided her with opportunities to present her work, gain feedback, and expand her professional network.

At Biomolecular Horizons, Australia’s largest biomolecular conference, Alvi presented her project and gained valuable insights into biomolecular research. “I learned how to present my work more effectively and received constructive feedback from experts,” she shared. The conference also allowed her to connect with Australian researchers and enhance her understanding of advanced techniques in biomolecular science.

Meanwhile, ICAPPS in Yogyakarta offered Alvi a chance to reconnect with colleagues and mentors from her time at the University of Indonesia. "The conference organiser in Yogyakarta was the University of Indonesia, so I met many friends and lecturers. I also showcased my research in Australia, which opened doors for potential collaborations, including with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN)," she said.

She noted clear distinctions between the two conferences she attended. The Melbourne conference, with its singular focus on biomolecular studies, offered a streamlined experience that allowed her to engage deeply with experts and establish valuable professional connections.

In contrast, the Indonesia conference featured a wide range of topics across sub-themes, providing unique opportunities for broader learning. "With so many sub-themes, I could explore areas beyond my PhD project for self-development. This diversity helped refresh my perspective,” she explained.

Both conferences, made possible by the Hadi Soesastro Prize, became invaluable platforms for exchanging knowledge and experiences. Beyond individual benefits, they highlighted the importance of fostering collaboration between Australia and Indonesia, reinforcing the international scope of academic partnerships.

Alvi believes that research collaborations between Australia and Indonesia can be further enhanced through continued exchanges of scholars and knowledge. This vision formed the basis of her decision to pursue advanced studies in Australia. In addition to leveraging advancements in biomolecular research as a potential model for Indonesia, she is eager to foster deeper collaboration in pharmaceutical research between the two countries.

"Throughout Australia, the research tools are incredibly advanced. If Indonesian research could access similar tools through collaboration, the outcomes would be transformative,” Alvi concluded.