Department of Physics FMIPA USK Strengthens International Collaboration through WCU Inviting Professor Program

Banda Aceh, June 25, 2026 – The Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), successfully organized a three-day series of international academic activities under the WCU Inviting Professor Program. The program featured Prof. Dr. Ankur Jain, Director of the Centre for Renewable Energy & Storage, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur, India, as the invited professor. The initiative reflects USK’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration, advancing research excellence, and enhancing the quality of scientific publications.

The program commenced on 22 June 2026 with an International Public Lecture entitled “The Hydrogen Puzzle: Solving Energy Storage Through Materials Innovation”, held at the FMIPA Senate Room, Universitas Syiah Kuala. The lecture attracted undergraduate and postgraduate students, academic staff, and researchers interested in renewable energy and advanced materials.

During the lecture, Prof. Ankur Jain presented the latest developments in hydrogen storage technologies and highlighted the crucial role of advanced materials in addressing global energy storage challenges. He discussed recent innovations in hydrogen storage materials, current research trends, and future opportunities for international collaboration in renewable energy research. The interactive discussion provided participants with valuable insights into the scientific and technological advancements supporting the global transition toward sustainable energy systems.

The session was moderated by Dr. Zulkarnain Jalil, S.Si., M.Si., Department of Physics, FMIPA USK. Prior to the lecture, welcoming remarks were delivered by the Chair of the Organizing Committee, the Head of the Reputation Division of USK and Chairperson of the EQUITY-USK Organizing Committee, and the Dean of FMIPA USK, demonstrating the university’s strong commitment to expanding international academic partnerships and enhancing institutional reputation through global research collaboration.

On the second day, 23 June 2026, the Department organized a Manuscript Development Clinic entitled “Q1 Manuscript and Scientific Writing Enhancement.” The clinic was designed primarily for academic staff and was also open to selected postgraduate students. The session focused on improving participants’ ability to prepare high-quality manuscripts suitable for publication in Q1 international journals, covering essential topics such as manuscript structure, scientific argumentation, data presentation, journal selection strategies, and responding effectively to reviewers’ comments.

Beyond theoretical discussions, participants were given the opportunity to consult directly with Prof. Ankur Jain regarding their ongoing research manuscripts. Through personalized feedback and practical recommendations, attendees gained valuable knowledge on increasing the quality and publication potential of their scientific work.

The program also served as an important platform for fostering future research collaboration between the Department of Physics, Universitas Syiah Kuala, and the Centre for Renewable Energy & Storage, Suresh Gyan Vihar University. Discussions emphasized opportunities for joint research projects, international publications, academic exchange, and collaborative supervision in the fields of advanced materials, renewable energy, and hydrogen storage technologies.

The WCU Inviting Professor Program concluded on 24 June 2026 with a Workshop on Solid Hydrogen Storage Materials entitled “Materials for Energy Storage Based on Local Natural Resources.” The workshop introduced participants to the synthesis and characterization of solid hydrogen storage materials and explored the utilization of locally available natural resources for future energy storage applications. The event concluded with a laboratory tour showcasing the research facilities of the Department of Physics, providing further opportunities to initiate long-term international research collaborations.

Through this series of international academic activities, the Department of Physics, FMIPA USK, reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the quality of education, research, and community engagement through global partnerships. The program supports Universitas Syiah Kuala’s vision of becoming a World Class University (WCU) while contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting quality education, innovation, and sustainable energy research.