KNEIA: Bridging Science and Society through Communication
KNEIA grew by offering consultancy services for obtaining funding for research projects, leveraging the extensive experience of its founders in the European Union's Framework Program for research and innovation. For years, we have assisted numerous researchers and teams in accessing the necessary resources to conduct innovative and transformative research.
However, during our long journey in both the public and private research fields, we realized that there was an even greater need in the field of scientific communication and valorisation. The academic background, skills, and vital inclinations of the founders provided us with the strongest foundation for this strategic shift in KNEIA.
Today, KNEIA has evolved into a comprehensive partner in scientific communication and valorisation. Our focus ranges from creating effective communication strategies for research projects to curating and presenting data in an accessible and meaningful way to the general public. We help researchers tell their stories convincingly and maximize the impact of their work on society. We provide organizations with the necessary support to identify and navigate paths for knowledge transfer.
We comprise a team of professionals passionate about science and communication, sharing a vision of the relevance of science in the economy and society, and possessing the skills needed to bring you closer to your audience.
We look forward to introducing your work to the world!
Our Team
Cristina Barragán Yebra
Founder
Cristina Barragán Yebra is a versatile professional with a wide range of skills. Her degree in Library and Information Science provided her with a deep understanding of information management and the importance of accessibility to scientific data. Her bachelor’s degree in Audiovisual Communication gave her a solid foundation in theoretical knowledge and helped her develop the necessary skills for effective communication across various channels. An international MBA further contributed to consolidating the strategic vision required for scientific valorisation.
Ciro Avolio
Founder
Ciro Avolio brings a deep knowledge in the political field and a broad perspective on sustainability, supported by his degree in Political Science from the University of Bologna, MA in Environment, Development and Policy from the University of Sussex and his Ph.D. in Sustainability from UPC. This unique combination of skills allows us to approach scientific issues from multiple angles, considering not only the research itself but also its impact on society and the environment. He is an asset in identifying and analysing stakeholders. He regularly collaborates with public and private entities in defining projects in the areas of environment, eco-innovation, renewable energy, policy and health.
Asier López
Web developer & SEO Manager
Asier López Cabañas has 22 years of experience in digital marketing and web development. Specializing in content management systems (CMS), he stands out as an expert in Front-End development with Drupal. He also serves as SEO Manager, responsible for coordinating and implementing optimization strategies for search engines. He is also specialized in GEO (Generative Engine Optimization), a discipline focused on improving brand visibility, mentions, and citations within generative AI engines. He holds certifications as a Google AdWords Advanced Specialist, Web Analytics, and a Master's in SEO. With a distinguished career marked by innovation, he has established himself as a reference in web development, SEO, and AI-driven visibility strategies. In 2023, he was recognized by Forbes magazine among the top 50 SEO agencies in Spain.
Christina Barragán
Project coordinator – Content Analyst
Christina Barragan brings more than 10 years of experience providing executive support and assisting C+ level management at an international level in various organizations. Fluent in Spanish, Catalan, English, and Arabic, she holds a degree in Modern Languages and an MA in Euromediterranean Relations. Proficient in organizational and planning tasks, her skills extend to project management, content writing, translation, and effective communication. Currently in the position of Project Coordinator and Content Analyst at KNEIA, her practical expertise and global experience contribute to the seamless operation of projects and content initiatives.
Mario Trueba
Graphic Designer
Mario Trueba, a graduate in communication, is a versatile professional in the creative world. His extensive experience spans audiovisual production, photography, and graphic design, with a notable focus on executing advertising campaigns, creating corporate videos, and defining brand visual identities. Combining a solid academic background with rich practical experience enables him to provide creative and effective solutions across various dimensions of communication and design.
Michael Hepworth
Content Analyst
Mike studied history and psychology at degree level, and earned a masters in International Relations, Security and Development from Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. Mike´s background in history, psychology and international relations offers an understanding of the evolution of societal structures, historical and cultural contexts, insights into human behavior and decision-making that are pivotal for crafting messages that resonate with and influence stakeholders effectively, and provides a broader, nuanced perspective on the impacts and benefits of European research, development and innovation projects at a societal level.
María Cámara
Content Analyst
María Cámara Ruiz, a dynamic biologist with a relentless passion for sustainable practices. Armed with a master's degree in aquaculture and fisheries and a Ph.D. in molecular biology and biotechnology, María has traversed borders, bringing her expertise to different corners of the globe. Her diverse background encompasses not only academic research but also hands-on industry experience, providing her with a vantage point to bridge the gap between theory and application. With a keen eye for sustainability assessments and circular economy, María is dedicated to fostering a culture of transparency and confidence in scientific communication.
Ángela Londoño López
Content Analyst
Ángela holds degrees in Journalism and in Anthropology, a Specialization in Public Policy for the Promotion of Equality, and a Master's degree in Public and Social Policy from Universitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona School of Management. She has experience working across the public and private sectors, in European research and innovation projects, and in development programs involving Afro-descendant and Indigenous communities. Combining communication, research, and policy, Ángela develops narratives that connect science and society and promote inclusive and sustainable development. Through creative and strategic storytelling, she uses communication as a tool to advance participation, transparency, and transformative change.
Loli Varela López
Content Analyst
Loli Varela López is a scientist specialized in organic chemistry, holding a PhD in this field from the University of Manchester, where she researched the development of artificial molecular machines as part of ArtMoMa, a European project funded by Horizon 2020. During this experience, she gained insight into how such programs operate from the inside, while also discovering her interest in science communication and its role in disseminating knowledge. These qualities, together with her technical rigor, attention to detail, and organizational skills, make her a multidisciplinary professional who brings value to KNEIA as a Content Analyst, facilitating the transfer of knowledge between the scientific community and society.