On March 24, 2025, a seminar and practical workshop titled "eDNA-Based Biodiversity Assessment: Metabarcoding, Data Processing in R, and Curatorial Best Practices" was successfully conducted at the Audio-Visual Room (AVR) of the DARES Center Building, MSU-Naawan.

The activity featured six PhD students from leading Japanese universities as the main resource speakers: Yuna Dewa, Ryusei Furuhashi, Reo Koreeda, and Roxanne Cabebe-Barnuevo from Kagoshima University, and Marizka Juliano and Bernadeth Grace Pananganan from the University of the Ryukyus. Their expertise spans molecular ecology, biodiversity monitoring, and data science for conservation. Their sessions covered key topics such as environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding, the use of R software for data analysis, and proper curatorial methods in handling genetic samples and data.

This seminar-workshop aimed to equip participants with valuable knowledge and practical skills in using eDNA techniques to assess and monitor biodiversity. It also served as a capacity-building initiative to strengthen the competencies of faculty researchers, staff, and students in applying molecular approaches to conservation science.

Aligned with the Center’s broader vision of promoting innovative tools for biodiversity research and sustainable resource management, the activity emphasized the significance of eDNA in shaping evidence-based policies and strategies for ecosystem protection.