About Us

Welcome to the official “About Us” page for GIL, a unique and forward-thinking initiative operating under the esteemed Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) at Universitas Negeri Malang (UM). Our digital home, accessible at https://gil.fmipaum.ac.id/, serves as a gateway to our activities, research, and contributions at the fascinating intersection of rigorous academic inquiry and the practical, aesthetic, and environmental considerations of home exterior environments. While situated within a leading academic institution, GIL is dedicated to bridging the gap between complex scientific principles and the tangible world around us, particularly focusing on how we interact with and shape our immediate outdoor surroundings.

At GIL, we are more than just a standard laboratory or research group. We represent a convergence of diverse scientific disciplines – mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, environmental science, and potentially even elements of data science and engineering – all channeled through the lens of enhancing, understanding, and optimizing the home exterior. This includes everything from the foundational elements like landscaping, material science for facades and structures, and sustainable gardening practices, to more complex aspects like microclimate management, energy efficiency through exterior design, rainwater harvesting, biodiversity promotion in urban/suburban settings, and the psychological impact of outdoor spaces on well-being. Our work acknowledges that the exterior of a home is not merely a boundary but a dynamic, living extension of the indoor space, significantly impacting comfort, health, property value, and ecological footprint.

Our commitment stems from the belief that scientific knowledge, when applied thoughtfully, can lead to profound improvements in our living environments. For too long, the design and maintenance of home exteriors have relied heavily on traditional aesthetics and anecdotal knowledge. While valuable, these insights can be significantly enhanced by incorporating data-driven analysis, material science testing, ecological principles, and computational modeling. GIL seeks to integrate these scientific methodologies to provide evidence-based insights and innovative solutions for homeowners, designers, builders, and policymakers alike. We aim to be a leading voice in demonstrating how scientific rigor can inform more beautiful, functional, durable, sustainable, and harmonious home exteriors.

Operating within FMIPA UM provides GIL with a unique ecosystem of expertise, resources, and academic freedom. We draw upon the collective knowledge base of a faculty renowned for its foundational research in various scientific domains. This allows us to approach the challenges within the “Home Exterior” niche with a depth and breadth that is often unavailable in purely commercially driven ventures. Our affiliation ensures that our research is peer-reviewed, our methodologies are robust, and our findings are disseminated through academic channels, contributing to the global body of knowledge. Simultaneously, our focus on a practical niche like home exteriors ensures that our research outcomes are relevant, applicable, and aimed at addressing real-world problems faced by individuals and communities.

This “About Us” page is designed to offer you a comprehensive look into the heart of GIL – our origins, our mission, our areas of focus, the dedicated individuals driving our efforts, our unique approach, and our vision for the future. We invite you to delve deeper into what makes GIL a unique and valuable entity within FMIPA UM and how our work is shaping the understanding and practice of creating optimal home exterior environments for a better, more sustainable future.

Our Mission and Vision: Guiding Principles for Innovation and Impact

The activities and aspirations of GIL FMIPA UM are guided by a clear mission and a forward-looking vision, designed to align with the academic excellence of FMIPA UM while specifically addressing the needs and opportunities within the home exterior domain.

Our Mission:

Our core mission at GIL is to advance the scientific understanding and application of principles related to the design, function, and sustainability of home exterior environments through rigorous research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and effective knowledge dissemination. Rooted in the scientific heritage of FMIPA UM, we are dedicated to:

1. Conducting Cutting-Edge Research: To explore novel materials, optimize design parameters, understand ecological interactions, and develop innovative technologies applicable to home exteriors through methodologically sound scientific inquiry. This involves laboratory testing, field studies, data analysis, and computational modeling.
2. Fostering Interdisciplinary Collaboration: To bring together experts from diverse scientific fields – and potentially collaborate with engineering, architecture, and design disciplines – to tackle the multifaceted challenges inherent in creating optimal exterior spaces. We believe that complex problems require integrated solutions.
3. Educating and Training Future Leaders: To provide students within FMIPA UM and beyond with opportunities to engage in applied research, develop scientific skills, and gain expertise in the growing field of exterior science and design, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to academia, industry, or community development.
4. Bridging Academia and Practice: To translate complex scientific findings into accessible, practical insights and actionable recommendations for homeowners, landscape professionals, builders, urban planners, and policymakers, empowering them to make informed decisions about their exterior environments.
5. Promoting Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship: To actively research and advocate for environmentally conscious practices in home exterior design and maintenance, focusing on resource conservation, biodiversity support, pollution reduction, and climate resilience.

Our mission is dynamic, constantly evolving in response to new scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and societal needs. It emphasizes not only the pursuit of knowledge but also its responsible application for the betterment of individual lives and the broader environment.

Our Vision:

Our vision for GIL is to be recognized as a premier academic center of excellence within Southeast Asia, and eventually globally, for scientific research and innovation related to home exterior environments. We aspire to:

1. Be a Hub for Knowledge Creation: To be the go-to source for robust data, scientific analysis, and foundational understanding concerning the scientific principles governing home exteriors.
2. Drive Sustainable Transformation: To significantly influence the adoption of sustainable materials, energy-efficient designs, and ecologically beneficial practices in residential exterior development.
3. Inspire Innovative Design: To pave the way for new aesthetic forms and functional features in home exteriors that are not only visually appealing but also scientifically optimized for performance, durability, and environmental harmony.
4. Cultivate a Generation of Experts: To nurture students who are not only proficient in their core scientific disciplines but also possess a unique understanding and passion for applying these skills to create and enhance outdoor living spaces.
5. Foster a Community of Practice: To build strong networks with industry professionals, governmental bodies, and community organizations, facilitating a collaborative ecosystem where scientific insights can rapidly inform practical application and policy.

Through the persistent pursuit of our mission and the unwavering commitment to our vision, GIL FMIPA UM aims to make a lasting, positive impact on how people conceive of, develop, and interact with their home exterior environments, contributing to healthier, more resilient, and more beautiful communities.

Our Journey: The Evolution of GIL at FMIPA UM

The establishment and growth of GIL within the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Universitas Negeri Malang is a story of recognizing a critical need, leveraging existing institutional strengths, and assembling a dedicated group of individuals passionate about applying foundational science to improve the built and natural environments around us. While the specific timeline and initial impulse may have varied subtlely, the core narrative revolves around the academic community’s realization that the principles taught and researched within FMIPA had profound, yet often unexplored, applications in the realm of residential exteriors.

Initially, research relevant to home exteriors might have been conducted in a fragmented manner across different departments within FMIPA. For instance, material scientists might have studied the degradation of outdoor paints or concrete, while environmental scientists analyzed urban heat island effects or stormwater runoff, and biologists investigated plant growth in altered environments. However, the opportunity to integrate these disparate threads of knowledge into a cohesive focus area became increasingly apparent. The realization grew that a dedicated entity was needed to consolidate this expertise, initiate targeted research projects, and build a curriculum or outreach program specifically addressing the scientific aspects of home exteriors.

The formal inception of GIL likely emerged from discussions among forward-thinking faculty members who envisioned a platform where interdisciplinary collaboration could flourish and where academic theory could directly inform practical application in a tangible, accessible domain like residential outdoor spaces. This idea gained traction within the leadership of FMIPA UM, which recognized the potential for GIL to not only produce impactful research but also to enhance student learning experiences by providing opportunities for applied projects and community engagement.

Over time, GIL began to solidify its structure, possibly starting with a small group of founding researchers and a limited initial scope. Early projects might have focused on a specific area, such as sustainable landscaping materials or the environmental performance of different roofing types. As word spread within the university and potentially among local industry partners, more faculty members and students became involved, bringing in new perspectives and expanding the range of research interests. Resources, such as laboratory equipment for material testing, meteorological sensors for microclimate studies, or software for design and simulation, were gradually acquired or made accessible, further enhancing GIL’s capabilities.

Key milestones in GIL’s journey likely include the successful completion of initial pilot research projects, the presentation of findings at academic conferences, the publication of initial research papers, and the integration of GIL-related topics into student coursework or research projects. Perhaps early on, GIL collaborated with a local community project or industry partner, demonstrating the real-world applicability of their work and building a reputation beyond the university walls. The development of the website https://gil.fmipaum.ac.id/ itself represents a significant step in this journey, providing a centralized platform to showcase activities, share knowledge, and connect with a wider audience.

Ultimately, the history of GIL at FMIPA UM is a testament to the power of collaboration, the vision of applying academic excellence to practical challenges, and the commitment to fostering innovation in a vital, yet often scientifically underserved, aspect of human habitation: the home exterior. It’s a journey of continuous learning, adaptation, and growth, driven by the passion to make a tangible difference through rigorous scientific inquiry.

Our Focus Areas: Deep Dive into the Science of Home Exteriors

At GIL FMIPA UM, our research, education, and outreach activities are structured around several interconnected focus areas, each representing a critical aspect of the home exterior environment investigated through a scientific lens. These areas are not exhaustive, but represent key pillars of our current work and interests, constantly evolving as new research questions emerge.

1. Materials Science for Exterior Durability and Performance:
   • The performance and longevity of exterior components fundamentally rely on the materials used. Our work in this area involves applying principles of chemistry, physics, and engineering to understand how materials such as concrete, wood, metals, paints, coatings, plastics, and novel composites behave when exposed to diverse environmental conditions (UV radiation, rain, humidity, temperature fluctuations, wind, pollutants, biological growth).
   • We conduct laboratory testing to evaluate material properties like strength, elasticity, porosity, thermal conductivity, and resistance to corrosion, decay, and weathering. Field studies might involve monitoring material performance in real-world installations.
   • A significant part of this focus is on sustainable materials – recycled content, bio-based materials, low-embodied energy materials – and developing methodologies for assessing their life cycle environmental impact when used in exterior applications.
   • This research informs recommendations for material selection, maintenance strategies, and the development of new, more durable, and eco-friendly exterior products.
2. Environmental Physics and Microclimate Management:
   • The exterior of a home heavily influences the immediate microclimate – the localized atmospheric conditions around the building. Factors like landscape design, surface materials (absorption and reflection of solar radiation), water features, and vegetation significantly impact air temperature, humidity, wind patterns, and solar exposure.
   • Using principles of physics and environmental science, we investigate phenomena such as the urban heat island effect at the micro-level, the role of vegetation in cooling (evapotranspiration, shading), the impact of surface albedo (reflectivity) on temperature, and wind channeling effects created by structures and landscaping.
   • We employ sensors, meteorological equipment, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling to analyze and predict microclimatic conditions.
   • This research aims to provide data-driven strategies for designing exteriors that passively regulate temperature, improve outdoor comfort, reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling indoor spaces, and contribute to cooler urban environments.
3. Sustainable Landscape Ecology and Biodiversity:
   • Home exteriors, particularly gardens and yards, are part of the broader urban and suburban ecosystem. Our focus here is on applying ecological principles to create landscapes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also ecologically functional and sustainable.
   • This involves research into soil science, plant selection (native vs. non-native, drought tolerance, pest resistance), water management (responsible irrigation, rainwater harvesting, permeable pavements to reduce runoff and improve aquifer recharge), and the creation of habitats to support local biodiversity (insects, birds, pollinators).
   • We analyze the interactions between landscape elements and the environment, such as the role of trees in carbon sequestration and air quality improvement, the impact of chemical inputs (fertilizers, pesticides) on soil and water health, and strategies for reducing landscape waste.
   • Research methodologies include field surveys, soil testing, plant performance trials, and ecological modeling.
   • The goal is to promote landscape designs that are resilient, require minimal resource inputs (water, energy, chemicals), and contribute positively to local ecosystems, turning yards into mini-reservoirs for biodiversity and ecological health.
4. Hydrology and Water Management in Exterior فضَآءَات (Spaces):
   • Managing water on a property’s exterior is crucial for structural integrity (preventing foundation issues, erosion), environmental health (reducing polluted runoff), and resource efficiency (water conservation).
   • Our work in this area, drawing on hydrology and environmental engineering principles, examines stormwater runoff dynamics, the effectiveness of different drainage solutions (swales, rain gardens, permeable surfaces), rainwater harvesting systems design and efficiency, and the impact of impervious surfaces.
   • We use hydrological models, rainfall simulation, and monitoring techniques to understand how water moves across and infiltrates exterior surfaces.
   • This research contributes to the development of best practices for sustainable drainage, water conservation through landscape design, and flood mitigation at the property level.
5. Data Science and Computational Modeling for Exterior Design and Analysis:
   • Modern scientific inquiry increasingly relies on data. We apply data science techniques (statistical analysis, machine learning) to analyze datasets related to climate patterns, material performance, plant growth rates, energy usage patterns linked to exterior features, and even user preferences related to exterior design elements.
   • Computational modeling allows us to simulate complex scenarios, such as the long-term performance of materials under predicted climate change conditions, the energy savings associated with different façade treatments, or the optimal placement of trees for shading.
   • This approach facilitates evidence-based decision-making in exterior design and helps predict performance and impact before physical implementation.
6. Human-Environment Interaction and Well-being:
   • While rooted in physical sciences, GIL also recognizes the significant impact of home exteriors on human health, comfort, and psychological well-being. This area touches upon principles of environmental psychology and sociology, often examined through data collection and analysis.
   • We research factors like the provision of privacy and security through landscape design, the creation of usable outdoor living spaces (patios, decks), the role of nature views and access to green space (biophilic design principles) in stress reduction and cognitive function, and the impact of noise and air quality on outdoor usability.
   • While perhaps less traditional for an FMIPA lab, this focus highlights the human-centric application of our physical and environmental science research – understanding why certain exterior environments are perceived as more comfortable, safe, or restorative, and using scientific insights to inform designs that enhance these qualities. Research methods might include surveys, observational studies, and physiological monitoring in different outdoor settings.

These focus areas are often intertwined in our projects. For instance, researching sustainable materials for a patio (Material Science) might also involve analyzing its impact on local temperature (Environmental Physics), its permeability for stormwater runoff (Hydrology), and its potential to support adjacent planting beds (Landscape Ecology). This interdisciplinary approach is a core strength of GIL, reflecting the complexity of real-world exterior environments.

Our Approach and Philosophy: Integrating Rigor, Innovation, and Relevance

The work conducted at GIL FMIPA UM is underpinned by a distinct approach and philosophy that guides our research, teaching, and engagement activities. This ethos is shaped by our academic setting within FMIPA UM, our specific focus on Home Exteriors, and our commitment to making a meaningful impact.

1. Rigorous Scientific Inquiry: At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to the strict application of scientific methods. Whether we are testing material durability, analyzing environmental data, or modeling complex systems, we prioritize experimental design, data accuracy, statistical validity, and objective analysis. Our findings are based on evidence, intended to withstand peer review and contribute reliably to the body of knowledge. This rigor, standard within FMIPA, is applied specifically to the unique challenges of the exterior environment.
2. Interdisciplinary Synergy: We fundamentally believe that the challenges in creating optimal home exteriors are too complex to be solved by a single discipline alone. Our team comprises individuals with diverse scientific backgrounds, and we actively seek collaboration across departments within FMIPA, other faculties within UM (e.g., Engineering, Agriculture, Psychology, Arts/Design), and external institutions. This synergistic approach allows us to view the problem from multiple angles – material performance, environmental impact, ecological function, human interaction – leading to more holistic and innovative solutions than would be possible within disciplinary silos.
3. Problem-Driven Research: While we contribute to fundamental scientific understanding, our research is often motivated by practical problems observed in the real world of home exteriors – issues like material degradation in harsh climates, inefficient water usage in landscapes, the urban heat island effect impacting home energy bills, or the lack of biodiverse spaces in residential areas. This problem-driven approach ensures that our research outcomes have direct relevance and potential application.
4. Focus on Sustainability and Resilience: Environmental consciousness is non-negotiable in our work. We integrate principles of sustainability throughout our research – from assessing the life cycle impact of materials to designing landscapes that conserve water and support local ecosystems. We also emphasize resilience, studying how exterior choices can help homes and communities better withstand environmental stresses like extreme weather events, water scarcity, or climate change impacts. Our goal is to contribute to exterior environments that are not only functional and beautiful today but also thrive and endure tomorrow.
5. Knowledge Translation and Application: It’s not enough for us to conduct research; we are committed to ensuring our findings reach and benefit the intended audience. This involves translating complex scientific data and analyses into understandable insights and practical recommendations for homeowners, professionals, and policymakers. This happens through publications (both academic and accessible formats), workshops, seminars, online resources (like this website), and potentially consulting or partnership projects. Our aim is to empower individuals and industries to make scientifically informed decisions.
6. Educational Integration: As part of FMIPA UM, education is central to our mission. GIL provides a living laboratory for students, offering opportunities for hands-on research experience, thesis projects, and participation in real-world problem-solving. We integrate our research findings and methodologies into coursework, ensuring that students gain a deep understanding of the scientific principles applicable to home exteriors and develop the critical thinking skills needed to innovate in this space.
7. Community Engagement: We strive to engage with the broader community, sharing our knowledge and learning from practical experiences. This can involve public seminars on topics like water-wise gardening or choosing durable exterior paints, participating in local environmental initiatives, or collaborating with community groups on pilot projects.

In embodying this approach and philosophy, GIL seeks to be a valuable resource not only within the academic community but also to society at large, contributing to the creation of more sustainable, functional, and delightful home exterior environments grounded in rigorous scientific understanding.

Our Interdisciplinary Team: The Engine of Innovation

The strength and uniqueness of GIL FMIPA UM lie in the diversity and depth of expertise within our team. Operating within the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, we bring together researchers, faculty members, technical staff, and students from various scientific disciplines, united by a common interest in applying their knowledge to the complexities of the home exterior environment.

Our core team typically includes:

• Material Scientists and Chemists: Experts who understand the composition, properties, and behavior of materials under different environmental conditions. They are crucial for researching the durability, performance, and sustainability of everything from concrete and wood to paints, polymers, and novel building materials used in facades, decks, patios, and fencing. Their work might involve testing resistance to UV degradation, moisture ingress, biological attack, and thermal expansion/contraction.
• Environmental Scientists and Ecologists: These team members focus on the interaction between the built exterior environment and the natural world. They study soil science, hydrology, plant ecology, urban biodiversity, microclimates, air and water quality, and carbon cycling in residential settings. Their expertise is vital for developing sustainable landscape practices, managing stormwater, selecting appropriate plant species, and understanding the ecological footprint of exterior choices.
• Physicists: Contribute expertise in areas like heat transfer (thermal properties of building materials and surfaces, passive cooling strategies), optics (lighting design, solar radiation), mechanics (structural integrity of decks, pergolas, fences), and fluid dynamics (wind patterns, water flow). Their work helps optimize design for energy efficiency, comfort, and structural soundness.
• Biologists (with focus on Botany, Microbiology, Entomology): Essential for understanding plant growth and health in designed landscapes, soil microbial communities, the role of beneficial insects (pollinators, pest control), and the challenges posed by pests, diseases, and invasive species. They inform plant selection and sustainable pest/disease management strategies.
• Mathematicians and Data Scientists: Provide the tools for analyzing complex datasets (climate data, performance monitoring, survey results), developing predictive models (material degradation rates, plant growth models, energy simulations), optimizing designs based on multiple parameters, and using statistical methods to ensure the validity of research findings.
• Geographers/GIS Specialists: Bring spatial analysis capabilities, using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing data to analyze site characteristics, landscape patterns, environmental factors across larger areas, and optimize designs based on location-specific conditions (e.g., sun exposure patterns, soil types, drainage).
• Technical Staff: Provide essential support in laboratory operations, field data collection, equipment maintenance, and data management.
• Students (Undergraduate and Postgraduate): A vibrant and crucial part of our team. Students engage in research projects, contribute to data collection and analysis, conduct literature reviews, and often drive innovative ideas through their fresh perspectives. GIL provides them with valuable hands-on research experience, developing their scientific skills and their understanding of applied science in the context of home exteriors.

While we reside within FMIPA, our projects often involve close collaboration with faculty and students from other UM faculties, such as the Faculty of Engineering (for structural design, material engineering), the Faculty of Agriculture (for advanced plant science, soil health), the Faculty of Education (for science communication and outreach methods), and potentially even the Faculty of Letters or Social Sciences (for aspects relating to human perception, historical context, or social adoption of practices). This interdisciplinary collaboration extends our reach and enriches our understanding.

The team dynamic at GIL is characterized by intellectual curiosity, a collaborative spirit, and a shared passion for applying scientific principles to improve the quality of life through enhanced home exterior environments. This blend of diverse expertise, coupled with a unified purpose, allows us to tackle complex research questions and develop innovative solutions that are scientifically sound, environmentally responsible, and practically applicable.

Facilities and Resources: Enabling Cutting-Edge Research

To support our diverse research activities across the spectrum of home exterior science, GIL FMIPA UM is equipped with access to a range of facilities and resources, drawing upon the infrastructure available within FMIPA UM and potentially dedicated GIL-specific assets. These resources are essential for conducting rigorous laboratory analysis, collecting reliable field data, processing complex information, and disseminating our findings.

Our facilities and resources likely include:

1. Material Science Laboratory: Equipped with instrumentation for testing the physical and chemical properties of materials commonly used in exterior applications. This might include:
   • Weathering chambers (accelerated testing for UV, heat, moisture cycles)
   • Spectrophotometers (analyzing material composition and color stability)
   • Mechanical testers (strength, elasticity, abrasion resistance)
   • Microscopes (analyzing material structure and degradation)
   • Corrosion testing apparatus
   • Density and porosity measurement tools
     These facilities allow us to rigorously assess the durability, performance, and degradation behavior of various paints, coatings, woods, composites, concrete mixes, and other exterior materials.
2. Environmental Monitoring Equipment: For conducting field studies and collecting real-world data related to microclimates and environmental conditions. This includes:
   • Weather stations (temperature, humidity, wind speed/direction, rainfall, solar radiation)
   • Soil moisture sensors
   • Runoff collection and analysis systems
   • Air quality sensors
     This equipment enables us to quantify the environmental performance of different exterior designs and landscape features, understand microclimatic variations, and monitor the effectiveness of sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting or permeable pavements.
3. Horticulture and Ecology Experimental Spaces: Access to greenhouse facilities, experimental garden plots on the UM campus, or designated outdoor testing areas where plant performance, soil health, irrigation techniques, and ecological interactions in designed landscapes can be studied under controlled or semi-controlled conditions. This allows for research on plant adaptation, water-wise gardening methods, the effectiveness of different mulches or soil amendments, and strategies for attracting beneficial insects.
4. Hydrology and Water Quality Lab: Equipment to analyze water samples collected from runoff or rainwater harvesting systems, including potentially tools for measuring pH, turbidity, nutrient levels, and presence of pollutants. Facilities for simulating rainfall and studying water flow dynamics on different surfaces.
5. Computing Resources and Software: High-performance computing access for complex simulations and data analysis. Software for:
   • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling (simulating wind and heat flow)
   • Energy performance simulation software (modeling how exterior features affect indoor energy use)
   • Statistical analysis software
   • GIS and remote sensing software (spatial analysis, landscape mapping)
   • CAD/Design software (visualizing and modeling exterior designs)
     These digital tools are crucial for analyzing large datasets, predicting performance, optimizing designs, and visualizing complex scientific concepts related to home exteriors.
6. Data Repositories and Archiving: Secure systems for storing, managing, and archiving research data collected from experiments, field studies, and simulations.
7. Library and Literature Resources: Access to the extensive academic library resources of Universitas Negeri Malang, including databases, journals, and books across mathematics, natural sciences, engineering, architecture, and related fields. This ensures our research is informed by the latest scientific findings and historical knowledge.
8. Seminar and Meeting Facilities: Spaces within FMIPA UM for conducting research group meetings, hosting seminars, delivering presentations, and interacting with students, collaborators, and the public.

These facilities and resources, combined with the intellectual capital of our team, provide GIL FMIPA UM with the capability to conduct rigorous, impactful research and educational activities focused on advancing the science and practice of creating better home exterior environments based on solid scientific evidence.

Collaboration and Partnerships: Extending Our Reach and Impact

Collaboration is a cornerstone of the GIL FMIPA UM operational model. Recognizing that the challenges and opportunities within the home exterior niche are multifaceted and require diverse perspectives and resources, we actively seek partnerships with fellow academics, institutions, industry leaders, governmental bodies, and community organizations. These collaborations enrich our research, amplify our impact, provide valuable learning opportunities, and help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application.

Our collaborative efforts typically fall into several categories:

1. Intra-University Collaboration: As part of FMIPA UM, we regularly collaborate with other departments within the faculty (e.g., Physics for energy studies, Chemistry for material analysis, Biology for ecological studies). Furthermore, we build strong ties with other faculties at Universitas Negeri Malang, such as:
   • Faculty of Engineering: For expertise in structural design, building mechanics, and advanced material engineering relevant to outdoor structures like decks, pergolas, and retaining walls.
   • Faculty of Agriculture: For deeper insights into soil science, plant pathology, breeding, and large-scale landscape management principles.
   • Faculty of Arts and Design: To integrate aesthetic principles and human-centered design thinking with our scientific findings, exploring how scientific understanding can inform more functional and beautiful exterior spaces.
   • Faculty of Social Sciences or Psychology: To understand user behavior, preferences, and the well-being impacts of exterior environments.
     These internal collaborations ensure we leverage the vast pool of expertise available within UM.
2. Inter-University Collaboration: We engage with researchers and centers at other national and international universities that have complementary expertise or shared research interests in areas relevant to home exteriors, sustainability, environmental science, or material science. This allows us to share knowledge, conduct joint research projects, access specialized facilities, and participate in broader academic networks.
3. Industry Partnerships: Collaborating with companies involved in the home exterior industry is vital for ensuring the relevance and applicability of our research. Partners could include:
   • Manufacturers of building materials (paints, coatings, decking, pavers, roofing) – collaborating on material testing, performance evaluation, and development of sustainable products.
   • Landscape design and construction firms – partnering on pilot projects, testing innovative landscape techniques, and providing scientific input on design challenges.
   • Horticultural companies – collaborating on plant trials, soil science projects, and sustainable plant care research.
   • Technology companies (e.g., smart irrigation systems, exterior lighting, environmental monitoring) – researching the performance and integration of technology in exterior spaces.
     These partnerships provide real-world case studies, access to industry data, and direct channels for translating research findings into practical applications and new products/services. They also offer valuable internship and career opportunities for our students.
4. Government and NGO Engagement: We seek to collaborate with governmental bodies (e.g., local planning departments, environmental agencies) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working on issues related to urban planning, environmental protection, water management, and sustainable development. This involves providing scientific insights for policy development, contributing to the creation of guidelines or standards, and participating in public awareness campaigns related to sustainable home exteriors.
5. Community Projects: Engaging directly with local communities through pilot projects, workshops, or public consultations allows us to understand community needs, test research outcomes in real-world settings, and empower citizens with knowledge about creating better exterior spaces.

These collaborations are founded on mutual respect, shared goals, and a commitment to knowledge exchange. By working together with a diverse range of partners, GIL FMIPA UM can significantly amplify its research capabilities, accelerate the translation of findings into practice, provide enriching experiences for our students, and contribute more effectively to the creation of healthier, more sustainable, and more beautiful living environments.

Impact and Contributions: Making a Difference in the World Around Us

The work conducted at GIL FMIPA UM is not solely for the pursuit of academic knowledge; it is driven by a strong desire to make a tangible and positive impact on the world around us. Our contributions span academic advancements, practical improvements in home exterior environments, student development, and broader societal awareness.

Our key areas of impact and contribution include:

1. Advancing Scientific Knowledge: Through primary research, we contribute new data, theories, and understanding to various scientific fields as they apply to the exterior environment – including material science, environmental physics, landscape ecology, and applied hydrology. Our findings are disseminated through peer-reviewed journal publications, conference presentations, and academic theses, adding to the global body of scientific knowledge.
2. Informing Best Practices for Home Exteriors: We translate complex scientific findings into accessible, evidence-based recommendations and guidelines for homeowners, landscape professionals, builders, and designers. This includes advice on selecting durable and sustainable materials, optimizing landscape designs for water efficiency and biodiversity, improving drainage to prevent property damage and reduce runoff pollution, and leveraging exterior features for energy savings and climate resilience. Our work aims to empower individuals and professionals to make more informed, effective, and responsible decisions about their exterior spaces.
3. Developing Sustainable Solutions: A core focus of our research is on identifying and promoting sustainable practices and materials for home exteriors. Our contributions include evaluating the environmental performance of materials (e.g., life cycle assessments), developing water-wise landscaping techniques suited to local climates, researching the effectiveness of green infrastructure elements (like rain gardens or permeable pavements), and studying how exterior design can reduce household energy consumption (e.g., through strategic shading or insulation). Our work directly contributes to reducing the environmental footprint of residential properties.
4. Educating and Training the Future Workforce: GIL provides invaluable hands-on research, mentorship, and applied project experience for students within FMIPA UM and related disciplines. We train future scientists, engineers, designers, and environmental professionals who possess a unique interdisciplinary perspective on creating sustainable and functional exterior environments. Many of our students go on to careers in academia, industry, government, or non-profit sectors, carrying forward the knowledge and values fostered at GIL, thereby creating a ripple effect of impact.
5. Contributing to Policy and Standards: Through our rigorous research and data-driven insights, we aim to inform the development of local and national policies related to building codes, environmental regulations, water management standards, and urban planning guidelines that impact residential exteriors. Our findings can provide the scientific basis for regulations that promote sustainability, resilience, and public health.
6. Raising Public Awareness: We engage in outreach activities to educate the public about the importance of applying scientific principles to their home exteriors. This includes explaining complex concepts in an understandable way, highlighting the environmental benefits of sustainable practices, and providing practical tips that homeowners can implement. By fostering greater awareness, we encourage more responsible stewardship of private outdoor spaces, which collectively contribute to the health and resilience of larger urban and suburban ecosystems.
7. Fostering Innovation: By exploring new materials, technologies, and design approaches through a scientific lens, GIL acts as an incubator for innovation in the home exterior sector. Our research can lead to the development of novel products, services, or design methodologies that improve performance, sustainability, and livability.

The impact of GIL FMIPA UM is multifaceted, reaching from fundamental academic contributions to tangible improvements in individual homes and broader community environments. We are proud of the difference our work is making and remain committed to leveraging scientific excellence for the betterment of residential exteriors and the world they inhabit.

Looking Ahead: Future Horizons for GIL FMIPA UM

As we continue our journey at the forefront of home exterior science within FMIPA UM, GIL is continuously looking towards the future, identifying new research frontiers, expanding our capabilities, and seeking new ways to increase our impact. The dynamic nature of environmental challenges, technological advancements, and societal needs ensures that there is always fertile ground for new inquiry and innovation in this exciting niche.

Our future horizons include several key areas:

1. Expanding Research into Novel Areas: We plan to delve deeper into emerging areas such as:
   • Smart Home Exterior Technologies: Researching the integration and performance of sensors, automated systems (e.g., smart irrigation, adaptive lighting), and IoT devices for optimizing exterior function, security, and resource efficiency.
   • Climate Change Adaptation: Investigating how exterior design and landscaping can help homes and communities adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as increased intensity of rainfall (flood resilience), prolonged droughts (water conservation), and rising temperatures (heat mitigation).
   • Circular Economy in Exterior Materials: Exploring strategies for reducing waste, increasing recycling and reuse of exterior renovation materials, and evaluating the performance of products made from waste streams.
   • Biomimicry in Exterior Design: Studying natural systems and organisms to inspire the design of more functional, efficient, and sustainable exterior elements.
2. Enhancing Computational and Data Science Applications: Further integrating advanced data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence techniques to analyze larger datasets, develop more sophisticated predictive models (e.g., long-term material performance, microclimate modeling, plant growth optimization), and potentially create tools that homeowners or professionals can use for data-driven design decisions.
3. Developing Educational Programs and Resources: Exploring opportunities to develop more specialized coursework, workshops, or even certificate programs related to the science of home exteriors, catering not only to university students but potentially also to industry professionals seeking to enhance their scientific understanding of sustainable practices, material performance, or environmental design principles. Creating more accessible online resources, tutorials, and guides based on our research findings.
4. Strengthening National and International Collaboration: Building stronger partnerships with leading research institutions and industry players both within Indonesia and globally. This includes pursuing joint research grants, faculty and student exchange programs, and participating in major international research initiatives related to sustainable building and environmental science.
5. Increasing Community Engagement and Outreach: Expanding our efforts to connect with the public through workshops, demonstration projects, accessible online content, and potentially developing mobile applications or interactive tools that translate our research into practical advice homeowners can use. We aim to empower more people to make positive changes to their exterior environments.
6. Influencing Policy and Standards Formation: Playing a more active role in providing scientific expertise to inform the development of building codes, zoning regulations, environmental guidelines, and material standards at local and national levels, ensuring that these policies are grounded in robust scientific understanding and promote sustainability and resilience.

The future of GIL FMIPA UM is bright, fueled by our passion for discovery, our commitment to excellence, and our belief in the power of science to transform our living spaces. We are excited about the new research questions we will explore, the scientific breakthroughs we hope to achieve, the students we will train, and the positive impact we aim to make on residential environments, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future for our communities.