Depok, June 2, 2025 — The Faculty of Administrative Sciences at Universitas Indonesia (FIA UI) has initiated a collaboration with the School of Sustainability at Arizona State University (ASU) through an event titled Grant and Publication Discussion with FIA UI Faculty and Postgraduate Students. The event was held at the Smart Class, 3rd Floor of Building M, FIA UI.

This academic discussion featured Dr. Datu Buyung Agusdinata, Associate Professor from ASU, as the keynote speaker, with Dr. Vhisnu Juwono, Associate Professor at FIA UI, moderating the session. The interactive and dynamic session covered a wide range of topics relevant to research development, administrative science, and sustainability issues.

Dr. Buyung emphasized the importance of identifying existing knowledge gaps, understanding current trending topics, and—most crucially—anticipating themes that are likely to trend in the future. With this approach, researchers can foresee the direction of academic development and uncover potential research niches for further exploration.

To better identify these knowledge gaps, bibliometric analysis becomes essential in gaining comprehensive insights into three core aspects: the relationship between public policy and corporate actions as reflected in academic research focus; the evolving trajectory of future-oriented research themes; and the thematic evolution of scholarly publications within the field. This methodology is expected to serve as a solid foundation for developing relevant and forward-looking research strategies.

Furthermore, to ensure research results make a significant and academically recognized impact, topic selection must align with current global issues. Publications should ideally target open-access journals to reach a wider audience, and researchers are encouraged to consider writing review articles, which often have higher citation potential.

“It is crucial to pay attention to keyword selection when preparing scholarly publications. These keywords must be clearly reflected in both the title and abstract to improve discoverability in academic search engines, thereby enhancing the visibility and citation potential of the publication,” Dr. Buyung explained.

He also noted that research ideas often emerge from spontaneous interactions, whether planned or incidental. Such moments—though simple—can spark the development of relevant and valuable research concepts.

In regard to grant applications, two key evaluation criteria were highlighted: intellectual merit, or the potential of the project to advance knowledge, and broader impacts, which measure the extent to which the project benefits society and achieves its intended social outcomes.

Successful research activities rely not only on technical ability but also on the researcher’s readiness to adopt a comprehensive and collaborative approach. Researchers must possess interdisciplinary understanding and be proficient in various methodologies, including their respective strengths and limitations. Moreover, they should understand the broader context of their research topics to ensure relevance and practical applicability.

Inclusive collaboration is essential to building strong research teams. Researchers must be open to working with partners outside of the academic community, leverage team diversity constructively, and be prepared to handle differences that may arise during the research process. A reflective and flexible mindset is necessary—along with the courage to deviate from conventional norms in research practices. Lastly, recognizing the motivations and needs of each team member is key to strengthening synergy and achieving shared objectives.

The event was attended by FIA UI Dean Prof. Dr. dra. Retno Kusumastuti Hardjono, M.Si.; Vice Dean for Education, Research, and Student Affairs Prof. Dr. Teguh Kurniawan, M.Sc.; Vice Dean for Resources, Ventures, and General Administration Prof. Dr. Milla S. Setyowati, M.Ak.; department heads, lecturers, and doctoral students.