Research management is crucial not only in terms of physical organization but also in other key areas, including laboratory management, research ideas, funding, and human resources (HR). These four aspects must be balanced because research is deeply interconnected with both students and the lives of researchers.

This was highlighted by Associate Professor Muhammad Aziz, Dr. Eng., from The University of Tokyo during the Academic Leadership Workshop Series 2024. The event, titled “Research Management Toward World-Class Professors,” was organized by the Academic Senate of Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) at the 5th-floor Auditorium of UPI’s Graduate School, located at UPI Bumi Siliwangi Campus, Jalan Dr. Setiabudhi No. 229, Bandung, on Monday, August 19, 2024.

Muhammad Aziz emphasized, “When these four aspects are balanced, innovative ideas and novelty will thrive. It’s important to maintain collaboration, as it is through collaboration that we discover new ideas. While collaboration might sometimes seem at odds with competition, to elevate our competitiveness, we must engage in collaboration.”

He further explained the significance of funding in research, stating, “Funding is vital because it serves as a tool to propel our research forward. While funding isn’t everything, it accelerates our research progress. We must ensure that our students have the necessary resources for their research; otherwise, they may struggle. Our responsibility to secure funding for our students is akin to our responsibility toward our own children.”

Muhammad Aziz also discussed the importance of managing human resources in the laboratory, particularly in fostering mutual collaboration among undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students. He stressed the need to delegate topics, motivate, and encourage students effectively.

He added that within the framework of research and laboratory management, it is essential to consider the physical management of the laboratory. Ensuring a comfortable environment for both researchers and students will positively impact the output and outcome of their work.

Muhammad Aziz delivered his presentation on “Research and Lab Management Toward World-Class Researchers” alongside Prof. Dr. Ade Gafar Abdullah, S.Pd., M.Si. The event was attended by UPI’s Vice Rector for Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Dr. Didi Sukyadi, M.A., the Chair of UPI’s Academic Senate, Prof. Dr. Didi Sukyadi, M.A., and participants who joined both in person and online.