Dr. Viana Poveda Brossard

Date of Interview: February, 2026

Before Coming to Kyoto University
Since graduating from university, I have been working at the National Center for Seismological Research (CENAIS) in Cuba. My main responsibilities included collaborating in the design and maintenance of the Cuban Seismic Network, the seismic signals processing, and the search for and implementation of new technologies for monitoring the seismic activity in the country. I also collaborated in projects focused on seismic risk and vulnerability assessment based on soil and structural measurements. Together with my colleagues, I supported the operation of seismic data acquisition systems at the data acquisition center, ensuring the availability of the data for subsequent processing and analysis. During my Master’s studies, I became particularly interested in the study of the ambient seismic noise, especially in understanding its physical origin and exploring how it can be used for seismic studies and subsurface characterization. This interest has continued to grow and has strongly influence my current research direction. This professional experience eventually led to the opportunity to receive a JICA scholarship to pursue my doctoral studies in Japan.

Life at Kyoto University
Life at Kyoto University was a truly enriching experience. Studying at one of Japan’s leading universities with a strong international reputation allowed me to engage in advanced research, exchange ideas with scholars and professors from around the world and learn from leading experts in my field. I greatly appreciated the support provide by the administrative staff to the international students, they are always attentive and ready to help. Since I enrolled to the university, I had the opportunity to interact not only with Japanese students but also with students and professors from many other countries, which expanded my professional network and broadened my perspectives through their cultures and ways of thinking. This international environment also fostered opportunities for collaborative research. Beyond academics, I particularly enjoyed the vibrant student life. The university’s location offers easy access to a wide range of facilities and nearby tourist attractions, making the area lively, convenient, and stimulating.

-What were the biggest challenges you met?
One of the biggest challenges I faced at Kyoto University was adapting to a new academic culture and learning environment. The high research standards required constant effort and flexibility, while living independently in a country with a very different cultural and social environment pushed me to grow personally and to confidently navigate new social norms.

-What did you work on to overcome the challenges?
To overcome these challenges, I developed strong discipline and maintained consistency in my research, even during periods of low motivation, particularly to meet the demands of my thesis and publications. Feedback from my supervisor, Enescu Bogdan-sensei, and from collaborators was invaluable in guiding my progress and ultimately in the successful completion of my doctoral degree. In addition, building connections with other international students played an important role in my adaptation to both the academic and cultural environment, helping me manage research activities and daily life in a foreign country.

-What did you enjoy the most during your time at Kyoto University?
What I enjoyed the most during my time at Kyoto University was the opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone, both academically and personally. Although this was sometimes challenging, I truly valued the experience of pushing myself beyond familiar limits. I also greatly enjoyed connecting with students from diverse cultural background, sharing our experiences, and student life together in Kyoto.

-Research at Kyoto University
My research at Kyoto University focused on studying the generation and location of ocean microseisms through the analysis of polarization of seismic waves. Through this work, I gained solid experience in seismic ambient noise analysis and applied this knowledge to studies relevant to my country. I had the opportunity to learn from outstanding researchers and dedicated professors at Kyoto University, as well as from other universities in Japan, which greatly broadened my scientific perspective. During my studies, I had access to excellent research facilities and resources provided by the university, with funding support from JICA, all of which were essential for the successful development of my doctoral research.

What did you do after graduating from Kyoto University?
After graduating from Kyoto University, I continue working at the National Center for Seismological Research (CENAIS) in Cuba. I have been applying the knowledge and skills I gained during my doctoral studies to ongoing projects. I am collaborating with colleagues on the operation and development of the Cuba seismic network, while exploring new research topics to enhance seismic studies in Cuba and the Caribbean region.

Message for Future International Students
I encourage future international students to make the most of the opportunity to study abroad by focusing on their research, developing their skills, and expanding their professional networks. At the same time, it is important to maintain a healthy balance between academic life and personal life. Explore Kyoto and fully experience everything that Japanese culture has to offer, as these experiences will greatly enrich both the academic and personal growth.