Additionally, her studies and experience with equine-assisted therapies provide a unique interdisciplinary approach to the application of neuroscience in clinical and educational contexts. Johanna has also achieved international recognition: in 2020 she won first world prize in the Brain Awareness Week Video Contest organized by the Society for Neuroscience (SfN).
Neuroscience of consciusness : how the brain perceives the world
Conference date - May 13th, 14th and 15th, 2026
Locations in Cuenca: Cuenca, Ecuador -
Escuela Central | Salón de la Ciudad | Teatro Sucre
Academic Background
Dr. Johanna Pozo Neira has a robust and multidisciplinary academic training. She has a degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Azuay and has complemented her preparation with a diploma in Horse Assisted Therapy, reinforced with a degree in Equine Therapy, both from the Neuroscience and Coaching Institute of Texas. She completed her training with a Master's Degree in Cognitive Neuroscience from the University College London (UCL) and the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience (ICN), positioning her as one of the most prominent professionals in neuroscience in Ecuador.
Research Focus
Her work focuses on the research and application of cognitive neuroscience, with an emphasis on understanding brain processes related to mind, behavior, and consciousness. It integrates innovative clinical and therapeutic approaches, including non-invasive direct current neuromodulation, magnetism, and cognitive-behavioral therapies. This technique allows you to regulate brain activity, offering positive results in cases of chronic pain, anxiety and depression, and democratizing access to advanced treatments through its social work at the Institute of Neurosciences.
Current Institutional Role
Currently, Johanna Pozo Neira is Director of the Institute of Neurosciences at the Catholic University of Cuenca, where she leads research, education and development projects in cognitive neurosciences.
