INBIOSIS Workshop Series 2026 – Plant Species Identification using a Genetic Approach | Institut Biologi Sistem

Conventional plant species identification through morphological characterization has certain limitations, especially when it comes to damaged, destroyed, or seedling-stage samples. Genetic approaches such as DNA barcoding and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) are now becoming global standards in taxonomy, conservation, and the herbal/forestry industry. The proposed training course is characterized by theory and practical applications. Through this course, researchers and industry participants can enhance their knowledge and broaden their exposure to the latest plant genetics workflows ranging from DNA extraction to bioinformatics analysis. In addition to developing research talent, the workshop also serves as a platform for generating finance for the institute’s management costs through a series of services offered.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hamidun Bunawan's research activities have been centred around the investigating range of interconnecting themes that include bioengineering, biotechnology, systems, and synthetic biology. His signature project comprises constructing the synthetic virus of Rice tungro bacilliform virus (RTBV) and Rice tungro spherical virus (RTSV) as a powerful platform to delve deeper into the function of viruses. His research interest also extends to the microbial host’s metabolic engineering, mainly using yeast to produce plant anthocyanin and genetic manipulation of antibiotics produced by Lactobacillus and Trichoderma. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hamidun Bunawan can be contact by email at hamidun.bunawan@ukm.edu.my

With a unique combination of scientific research, intellectual property (IP) practice, and technology commercialisation experience, Shakir specialises in helping researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals transform ideas into valuable intellectual assets and commercial opportunities. Drawing on his experience as a Patent Executive, PhD researcher, and innovation ecosystem practitioner, he has supported the identification of patentable innovations, conducted IP prior art analyses, and advised on practical IP strategies that enable organisations to protect, manage, and maximise the value of innovations. His collaborations with universities, technology developers, government agencies, and industry partners have provided him with a broad understanding of translating research into real-world impact. Additionally, Shakir has contributed to capacity-building initiatives related to biosafety, biosecurity, and responsible research through his involvement in international fellowships and engagements in biorisk. He can contextualise biosafety and biosecurity principles to enable researchers to better understand risk management, responsible science, and regulatory considerations. As a trainer, Shakir combines technical expertise with practical insights, delivering engaging, outcomedriven learning experiences that equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to integrate intellectual property into research, innovation, and commercial decision-making.

17th November 2026 (Tuesday)

Time	Activity	Venue
8.30 am	Registration
9.00 am	Session 1: Introduction to Biodiversity and Genetics ● The role of genetics in species identification ● Selection of appropriate genetic markers for different studies Session 2: Principles of DNA Barcoding ● Basic theory of DNA barcoding ● Species identification using genetic methods (Q & A session: 10 - 15 minutes)	Seminar Hall INBIOSIS
10.30 am	Morning Break
10.45 am	Session 3: DNA Extraction Techniques (Practical/Demonstration) Demonstration of extraction from various types of plant tissues	Genomics Lab INBIOSIS
12.30 pm	Lunch break
2.00 pm	Session 4: Determination of DNA Quality and Quantity Use of NanoDrop Gel electrophoresis PCR amplification	Genomics Lab INBIOSIS
4.30 pm	Q&A Session and Summary of Day 1

18th November 2026 (Wednesday)

Time	Activity	Venue
8.30 am	Registration & Breakfast
9.00 am	Sponsored Talk and Instrument Demonstration (Apical) (Q & A session: 10 - 15 minutes)	Seminar Hall INBIOSIS
10.30 am	Morning break
10.45 am	Session 5: Results Analysis & Interpretation Reading gels/results and next steps	Genomics Lab INBIOSIS
12.30 pm	Lunch break
2.00 pm	Session 6: Bioinformatics Analysis Use of ClustalW to obtain full sequences Use of BLASTn software Publication from the analysis	Seminar Hall INBIOSIS
4.30 pm	Closing, Certificates & Feedback	Seminar Hall INBIOSIS