Katya Cuevas Bercovich

About Me

I am a journalist, science communicator, and scientific illustrator with a deep passion for translating complex scientific concepts into engaging, visually compelling narratives. For the past 15 years, I have been an integral part of the Instituto de Tecnología Química (ITQ-UPV/CSIC), where I was entrusted with shaping the institute’s corporate identity. My responsibilities included designing ITQ’s logo, branding, website, and content. Additionally, I collaborated directly with Professor Avelino Corma, one of the most prominent figures in catalysis research, assisting with his website, research projects, and cover designs for leading scientific journals.

Over the years, my designs have been featured in numerous high-impact international journals, including Angewandte Chemie, Sustainable Energy & Fuels, Advanced Functional Materials, Journal of Materials Chemistry A, Chemical Communications, ACS Catalysis, Chemical Science, Materials Horizons, Nanoscale, Nanoscale Advances, Chemistry—A European Journal, JACS Au, and Catalysis Science & Technology, among others. I have always found it particularly rewarding to merge science with design, ensuring that groundbreaking research is not only accessible but also visually captivating.

Since July 2024, I have been part of HG-Energy, a research group led by Hermenegildo García and Ana Primo at ITQ. In this role, I focus on communication, design, and social media strategies, contributing to the dissemination of scientific advancements in energy research.

Professional Journey

Before specializing in science communication, I gained extensive experience in public relations and media. I worked at Edelman, one of the world’s leading public relations agencies, where I developed communication and marketing strategies for clients across diverse industries. Prior to that, I worked at TV Azteca, one of Mexico’s major television networks, as a live culture and entertainment reporter. My early career also included a position at Cineteca Nacional, where I worked in film programming and public relations, allowing me to immerse myself in the world of cinema and storytelling.

Additionally, I have collaborated on projects with organizations such as Televisa, Burson Marsteller, Colegio de Arquitectos, and Aqlara, contributing my expertise in branding, content creation, and communication strategies.

My Background & Education

I was born in Mexico and have lived in Spain since November 2007. I studied Communication Sciences at the Universidad Intercontinental (UIC), followed by a specialization in Marketing at the Universidad Iberoamericana (UIA). My journey into the world of science communication began when I obtained a scholarship in 2007 to pursue a master’s degree in Multimedia Applications for the Internet at the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV). This opportunity arose due to my work at Petróleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), the largest oil company in Latin America.

During my time at UPV, I had the privilege of collaborating with Professor Avelino Corma, who was then the director of Instituto de Tecnología Química (ITQ-UPV-CSIC). As part of my master’s project, I led the first videoconference for “PEMEX HR Online”, marking the beginning of a successful four-year research collaboration between PEMEX and ITQ.

In 2009, after marrying a Spaniard and settling permanently in Spain, I embarked on a new professional chapter at ITQ, where I took full responsibility for the institute’s image. I developed the branding guidelines, managed website design and content, and handled communication strategies for the institute’s participation in international conferences and scientific congresses.

At the same time, I began designing scientific journal covers and back covers, a challenge I found both exciting and fulfilling. Over the years, I have been fortunate to have nearly thirty of my designs published, showcasing the visual beauty of scientific discoveries.

My Passion & Interests

I am deeply passionate about science communication, branding, design, and research dissemination. I believe in the power of storytelling to bridge the gap between science and the public, making complex information accessible and engaging. My interests extend to AI, technology, science, marketing, and health, fields that continuously inspire and shape my work.

Beyond my professional life, I am an avid listener of podcasts on topics such as AI, personal growth, science, and marketing, always eager to stay informed and expand my knowledge.