MERO FOUNDATION TEAM
MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND MERO
Our dedicated team of researchers, educators, and community leaders share one passion to protecting the sea that connects us all.
BOARD MEMBER
Founder
Dr. Rahmadi Prasetyo
Dr. Pras is deeply dedicated to the ocean and its ecosystems. As a lecturer at Dhyana Pura University, he shares his passion for marine conservation with students and colleagues, inspiring others to protect coral reefs and coastal environments.
Director
Dr. Rhesi Kristiana
Dr. Rhesi has long been fascinated by how marine organisms can provide innovative solutions for the future. Through her research on the antibacterial properties of gorgonian symbionts and international collaborations, she highlights the incredible potential of Indonesia’s marine biodiversity.
Secretary
Prof. I Wayan Mudianta
Prof. Wayan brings extensive expertise in analytical chemistry and education. His work bridges science and environmental stewardship, mentoring young researchers and fostering connections between research and real-world sustainability.
Treasurer
Ni Kadek Dita Cahyani, Ph.D.
Dr. Dita explores the molecular world of marine life, revealing the hidden narratives within the ocean’s biodiversity. At MERO Foundation, she mentors young scientists and leads molecular research that deepens our understanding of marine ecosystems.
Controller
Prof. Dr. Ocky Karna Radjasa
Prof. Ocky has devoted his career to uncovering the invisible world of marine microorganisms. His scientific vision centers on understanding how these microscopic life forms sustain the ocean and guiding research that ensures their preservation for future generations.
SCIENTIFIC ADVISORS
Microscopy & Ecology Scientific Advisor
Rahul Mehrotra, Ph.D.
Dr. Rahul has spent over a decade working closely with coral reefs. As a scientific advisor at MERO Foundation, he contributes his expertise to strengthen regional collaboration in coral reef research and conservation initiatives.
OPERATIONS & MANAGEMENT TEAM
Operational Manager
I Wayan Yasa Adi Upadana, S.E.
Yasa oversees the smooth running of MERO’s daily operations, from logistics to program coordination. His organizational skills and supportive nature help the team stay focused on what truly matters: protecting and learning from the sea.
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Head of Laboratories
Bernadeta Pingkan Larasati, S.TP., M.TP.
Pingkan believes that science should go beyond the lab to serve both people and nature. As Head of Laboratory, she leads the development of efficient research systems and marine-based innovations that make a tangible difference in the field.
RESEARCH & LABORATORY TEAM
Manager - Microscopy Laboratory
Ni Nyoman Ayu Indah Trisna Yanthi, S.Tr.T.
Ayu’s fascination with microscopic structures brings marine life into focus through histology and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Her research reveals the intricate beauty and adaptations of marine organisms, inspiring appreciation for life beneath the surface.
Manager - Molecular Laboratory
Muhammad Emir Rasyid, S.Si.
Emir is passionate about molecular science and the insights it offers into the genetic makeup of marine life. Through his research using molecular techniques, he examines biodiversity and uncovers the complexity of marine organisms, helping to deepen our understanding of ocean ecosystems while contributing to thoughtful and effective conservation efforts.
Manager - Microbiology Laboratory
Alvanza Qurandiva Ranandya, S.Kel.
Alvan's work focuses on exploring marine microorganisms and their role in environmental restoration. His curiosity and dedication drive his to transform scientific discoveries into meaningful conservation efforts.
Manager - Field Ecologist Environment
Muhammad Fakhrurrazi, S.Kom.
Barul is driven by a strong curiosity about marine ecology and the intricate dynamics that shape ocean ecosystems. He combines ecological research with Marine Information Systems to convert complex data into clear and insightful visualizations. Through this work, he helps reveal patterns beneath the ocean surface and supports more informed, data driven approaches to marine research and conservation.
AWARDEE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM BATCH 2
Taxonomy Study Team
Niken Sitalaksmi Siagian, S.Si
Niken integrates her academic background in oceanography with a deep interest in exploring and conserving biodiversity. Her research centers on taxonomy, applying morphological analysis with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to gain a clearer understanding of marine organisms. Through this work, she aims to advance scientific knowledge and support more effective conservation strategies for marine ecosystems.
Marine-Based Food Tech Team
Fachrul Saputra, S.Pi
Fachrul builds on his background in fisheries product technology with a strong interest in enhancing the value of marine resources. His work centers on developing diversified products from marine-based materials, turning raw resources into innovative and sustainable products that contribute to industry development while supporting responsible use of ocean resources.
Community & Outreach Team
Nurul Fajriyah, M.A
Nurul brings her background in International Relations into efforts to broaden the reach of marine conservation initiatives. Her work centers on developing educational programs, empowering local communities, and strengthening social media engagement to expand outreach and foster greater public involvement in marine conservation.
Community & Outreach Team
Muhammad Ramdan F, S.Si
Ram combines his background in biology with a commitment to strengthening the impact of marine conservation initiatives. He focuses on developing educational programs, engaging with local communities through social activities, and supporting social media outreach to expand public awareness and participation.
OUR EXTENDED MERO FAMILY
Over the years, MERO Foundation has been shaped by dedicated individuals whose expertise and passion continue to leave a lasting impact. Our alumni played key roles in developing MERO’s research programs, laboratory systems, and conservation initiatives. Their contributions have helped build the foundation we stand on today where science, community, and environmental care work hand in hand.
Project Leader
(2022 - 2023)
Siti Nurul Aini, Ph.D
Aini is a dedicated marine biologist with expertise in coral-killing sponge taxonomy. During her time at MERO Foundation, she led impactful research projects on coral health, developed aquarium systems, and established histology-based studies that deepened understanding of reef ecosystem dynamics. Her leadership continues to inspire future researchers in marine biodiversity.
Assistant Manager
(2024 - 2025)
Sakti Imam Muchlissin, S.Kel., M.Si
Sakti is passionate about marine fungi and their ecological roles. At MERO Foundation, he helped establish the fungi laboratory and played a key role in optimizing operational systems to support efficient research management. His initiative and scientific curiosity laid a strong foundation for MERO’s growing research capacity.
Researcher - Marine Microbiology
(2020 - 2025)
Fadillaisyia Riandani Putri, S.Pi.
Dilla is a marine researcher focused on marine microorganisms and their role in environmental restoration. Her curiosity and dedication drive her to turn scientific findings into meaningful conservation efforts. Since the early establishment of the laboratory at MERO Foundation, Dilla has been actively involved in building the lab systems and supporting various MERO projects from their initial development to their ongoing implementation. Her consistent contribution plays an important role in sustaining the foundation’s research and conservation work.
Marine Biologist Researcher and Community & Outreach Coordinator
(2020 - 2025)
Kharisma Ayu Zeina Halisah, S.Pi.
Kharisma has contributed to marine biology research at MERO Foundation since the early establishment of its laboratory, focusing on molecular studies, ecology, and environmental pollution while supporting projects from development to implementation. She ensures the organization moves in harmony toward its mission of caring for the ocean and coastal communities, and is known for connecting people, ideas, and initiatives to create meaningful impact.
