MEDAN – The Faculty of Forestry, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) has once again achieved a significant milestone in research. According to Rector's Decree No. 3373/UN5.1.R/SK/HK.03/2026, issued on 18 July 2026, eight lecturers from the Faculty of Forestry have been selected as recipients of the 2026 USU TALENTA Research Grant under the Reputation Research Group Scheme.

The grant recipients are:

  • Prof. Dr. Arida Susilowati, S.Hut., M.Si.
  • Dr. Ir. Tito Sucipto, S.Hut., M.Si., IPU., ASEAN Eng.
  • Prof. Dr. Ir. Agus Purwoko, S.Hut., M.Si., IPU.
  • Dr. Agr. Faujiah Nurhasanah Ritonga, S.Hut., M.Si.
  • Prof. Ir. Rahmawaty, S.Hut., M.Si., Ph.D., IPU.
  • Prof. Dr. Budi Utomo, S.P., M.P.
  • Prof. Dr. Apri Heri Iswanto, S.Hut., M.Si.
  • Dr. Ridwanti Batubara, S.Hut., M.P.

The USU TALENTA Research Grant is a university-funded program designed to strengthen outstanding research and enhance the quality of scholarly work conducted by lecturers with established academic records and strong scientific reputations. Through this initiative, researchers are encouraged to produce innovative discoveries, publish in reputable scientific journals, and generate research outputs that contribute to the advancement of knowledge and address pressing development challenges.

The success of these eight Faculty of Forestry lecturers in securing the grant reflects the faculty's strong commitment to fostering a research culture that is innovative, high-quality, and impactful. It also demonstrates the Faculty's consistent efforts to encourage research that not only advances academic excellence but also provides practical solutions for the sustainable management of natural resources and forestry.

This achievement aligns with the Faculty of Forestry USU's commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by strengthening research and innovation, SDG 15 (Life on Land) through the advancement of forestry science and terrestrial ecosystem conservation, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by reinforcing research ecosystems and academic collaboration to create broader societal impact.