2025 Candidate statements – Secretary

Candidate NameStatement

Julia Borrell
My name is Julia Borrell Pozo, and I am running for the position of Secretary of the EUSPR Board of Directors. I pursued my studies at multiple universities worldwide, including the University of Amsterdam, the University of Hong Kong, and the Autonomous University of Barcelona, which allowed me to be immersed in a multicultural environment from the beginning of my career.

I work as a psychologist at the Sant Pau Hospital Research Institute in the mental health research group. In my current job, I conduct clinical evaluations of patients with schizophrenia, manage data, and assist in preparing scientific material.

I gained hands-on experience in prevention science through a consultancy at the EUDA (European Union Drugs Agency). As part of my work, I coordinated training activities of the European Prevention Curriculum (EUPC), which allowed me to acquire a thorough knowledge of the contents of the curriculum. In addition, I assisted in updating the Xchange registry, the European evidence-based registry of prevention interventions. For that task, I sought out published studies in an ongoing effort to update the registry, which enabled me to get familiar with the literature on preventive intervention in Europe. Thus, I have developed practical research skills from my current job and knowledge on prevention research through working at the EUDA.

Last year, I attended the EUSPR conference, and it was a truly enriching experience to get to know professionals in this field. Since day one, I have felt very welcome by all EUSPR members. Last year’s conference theme was Prevention in and with Communities, and interestingly, it wasn’t just a topic of discussion—it became a personal experience as I unexpectedly felt part of the community that the EUSPR has been building for the last fifteen years.

Being part of the board would be an incredible opportunity to continue working closely with prevention scientists from all over Europe and to cultivate a sense of community and knowledge exchange that has inspired me. If I am elected as the secretary of the EUSPR, I intend to improve the EUSPR registration process and implement an easier interface and user experience. Simplifying the forms in the registration process would allow for easier record-keeping and review of new member applications. I intend to support board meetings, keep board members up to date with the latest news, and assist in organising the General Meeting of EUSPR members. I possess the knowledge and experience to carry out these duties. I have supported the Xchange and the EvidenciaViva review boards in organising meetings, writing minutes, and keeping records of decisions made.