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Jack PowersView profile

Professor

• Entertainment Media Industry
• Social Effects of Media on Children
• Media Ethics
• +5 more

Jack Powers serves as Professor and Chair of Media Arts, Sciences and Studies at Ithaca College's Roy H. Park School of Communications, where he teaches entertainment media business and researches children's media effects. With extensive industry experience including film production and network consulting, he bridges academic theory with professional practice. His educational background includes: PhD in Mass Communications (Media & Behavior concentration) from Syracuse University MA in Journalism/Mass Communication from The Ohio State University BA in Communications and French from University of Mount Union Powers' research spans entertainment industry dynamics, media effects on children, and emerging media technologies. His work examines Hollywood entry strategies, streaming economics, documentary ethics, and digital behavior patterns - particularly how new technologies impact dating, adolescent development, and social discourse. He emphasizes practical application through industry connections and production experience. His recent publications reveal evolving focus from children's media effects toward industry business models and technology impacts, with increasing attention to ethical implications of social media, streaming disruption, and production innovation. Current scholarship addresses writers' room pedagogy and filmmaking's technological transformation. Powers actively integrates professional practice into academia, currently producing a $1 million feature film employing Park School students. His teaching philosophy emphasizes "learning is doing" through required LA internships, London study abroad, and hands-on production via ICTV's 20+ television shows. He maintains direct industry access through regular Hollywood consulting for major networks and production companies. He oversees student development through extensive industry connections, with alumni employed at Disney, ESPN, MLB Network, HBO, Netflix, and numerous major productions. Personal media interests include Taylor Sheridan works, Game of Thrones, and directors like Tarantino and Scorsese, reflecting his professional engagement with contemporary media trends.

Krzysztof CicheńskiView profile

Assistant Professor

• Interdisciplinary Art
• Opera Direction
• Scenography
• +3 more

Krzysztof Cicheński is an interdisciplinary artist, academic lecturer, and opera director affiliated with the Faculty of Interior Design and Scenography at Magdalena Abakanowicz University of Arts in Poznań (UAP). Since 2025, he holds the rank of Assistant Professor at the Department of Scenography, where he teaches courses such as 'Selected issues in the history of theatre and drama' and 'Introduction to directing.' Education : Doctoral degree in art (visual arts and art conservation) from UAP (2024); Inter-Faculty Interdisciplinary Studies in Humanities (Master's) at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań (2005–2010). His artistic practice merges opera direction, playwright, libretto writing, set design, and sound art. He specializes in interdisciplinary performances that blend spatial activities, sound installations, and operatic installations, often exploring themes like forgotten works, historical narratives, and socio-cultural commentary. Notable projects include the 2024 opera Wedding (libretto and direction), the 2023 interdisciplinary Landscape , and the 2022 research-based performance The Devil's Wheel , which interrogates the ontological status of lost artworks. His work frequently involves collaborations with institutions like the Zbigniew Raszewski Theatre Institute and Grand Theatre in Warsaw. Scientific Awards : Scholarship of the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage (2024, 2020) Scholarship of the Marshal of the Wielkopolska Voivodeship (2013) He co-founded the Automaton Theatre (2005–2018) and has taught at institutions including Adam Mickiewicz University and the Academy of Music in Poznań. His projects are supported by programs like 'Placówka,' which funds innovative theatrical explorations.

• Transmedia Storytelling
• Scriptwriting
• Creative Writing
• +7 more

Brian Fagence is a Lecturer in Critical Studies and Scriptwriting at the University of South Wales, Faculty of Business and Creative Industries, and serves as the MA Animation Course Leader. He is affiliated with the Creative Industries Research and Innovation Group and has been an active academic since 1998, previously teaching at the University of Glamorgan and the Glamorgan Centre for Art and Design Technology. PhD in Scriptwriting and Transmedia Storytelling (2016) MA in Scriptwriting PGCE BA (Hons) in Communication Studies His research focuses on transmedia storytelling , scriptwriting , and creative writing across animation, comics, and computer games. He explores how narratives are constructed and transformed across media, emphasizing multimodality, storyworld design, and authorship. His work bridges creative practice and theoretical inquiry, often revealing narrative processes through artistic experimentation. Brian's recent publications highlight a consistent engagement with transmedia narrative structures , comics-specific writing techniques , and world-building . His articles explore how stories transcend single media, how scriptwriting adapts to animation and games, and how meaning is constructed in visual and interactive formats. The research demonstrates interdisciplinary reach, combining media studies, creative writing, and digital culture. While no formal scientific awards are listed, his scholarly contributions are recognized through invited talks and conference participation, including keynote roles at major events like the International Graphic Novel and Comics Conference. Brian has extensive experience in curriculum development and academic leadership, having led modules across multiple programs including MA Animation, BA (Hons) Animation, Computer Games Design, and Game Art. He previously led Digital Video Design and Multimedia programs. He also supervised his own doctoral thesis on transmedia storytelling, indicating capacity for research mentorship. He is actively involved in the Creative Industries Research and Innovation Group , contributing to research outputs, organizing events like Creative Comics, Creating Comics 2020, and participating in symposia on graphic narratives. His academic activities reflect a strong commitment to both creative practice and scholarly discourse in contemporary media.

• Screenwriting
• British Cinema
• Theatre Adaptation
• +3 more

Dr David Cottis is Senior Lecturer and Acting Director of Programmes for Film and Photography at Middlesex University's School of Film. He holds a PhD from Birkbeck College and has a dual career as an academic, playwright, theatre director, and dramaturg. His research focuses on British cinema history, adaptation studies, horror, and musicals, with notable works including How Stage Playwrights Saved the British Cinema, 1930-1956 (2025) and analyses of Nigel Kneale's horror narratives. His creative outputs include plays such as Black Stone and adaptations like his five-actor version of Oliver Twist . Cottis teaches scriptwriting across film, theatre, and animation programmes. He has contributed to major anthologies like A Ladder of Words and presented at conferences on topics ranging from Carry On films to M.R. James's legacy. His work bridges academic critique and creative practice, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to narrative and performance. Education: PhD in Theatre/Film Studies from Birkbeck College, University of London. Research Interests: British cinema history, literary adaptation, horror studies, musical theatre, dramaturgy, and cultural criticism. Recent projects explore social realist horror, the Carry On film legacy, and stage-to-screen adaptations. Professional Activities: Regular contributor to Wales Arts Review , dramaturg for Just Some Theatre Company, and collaborator on augmented reality theatre projects. His work has been performed at the Royal Court Theatre and the National Theatre.

Josslyn Jeanine LuckettView profile

Assistant Professor

• Media Studies
• Cinema Studies
• Africana Studies
• +11 more

Josslyn Jeanine Luckett is Assistant Professor in the Department of Cinema Studies at the Tisch School of the Arts, New York University. She is also affiliated faculty of NYU's Asian Film and Media Initiative. Her interdisciplinary background bridges film, Africana studies, ethnic studies, and theology, positioning her at the forefront of critical media scholarship. Her educational journey includes a PhD in Africana Studies from the University of Pennsylvania, an MFA in Dramatic Writing from NYU/Tisch School of the Arts, an MDiv from Harvard Divinity School, and a BA in Ethnic Studies from the University of California, Berkeley. Luckett’s research centers on media studies, jazz and improvisation, and comparative Ethnic Studies, with a focus on race, media, and social justice. She investigates representations of Afrodiasporic spiritual practices in film and television and is currently working on a book project about the pre-history of the L.A. Rebellion through the lens of UCLA’s Ethno-Communications Program. Her scholarship appears in Film Quarterly , Public Books , World Records Journal , Rebel Musics , and the Los Angeles Times . Her creative work includes writing the teleplay for the MTV Original Movie Love Song and serving on the writing staff of Ava DuVernay’s Queen Sugar for its seventh season. Her recent appointment to the National Film Preservation Board of the Library of Congress underscores her national impact in film preservation and scholarship. Fellow, Sundance Institute Screenwriters and Playwrights Labs Fellow, Film Independent Directing Lab Member, Macondo Writers Workshop Member, Writers Guild of America (since 1998) Luckett has mentored emerging writers through institutional and creative affiliations. While no formal advisees are listed, her role as a professor and creative practitioner involves significant guidance to students. She has not received direct grant mentions in the text, but her fellowships and editorial roles indicate sustained research support. She contributes to the academic and cultural mission of NYU through her teaching, research, and public engagement.

• Screenwriting
• Posthumanism
• Science Fiction Film and Television
• +7 more

Maxine Gee is a Principal Academic in Screenwriting at Bournemouth University, Faculty of Media and Communication, where she teaches across undergraduate and postgraduate programs in film and scriptwriting. She is an internationally produced playwright and screenwriter with a PhD by Creative Practice from the University of York (2018). Her work spans stage adaptations, web series, and science fiction short films, including the acclaimed Tales of Bacon and Terminal . Her research focuses on posthumanism, science fiction, horror (especially folk horror), Japanese media, adaptation, and the evolving role of AI in creative storytelling. She explores how narrative forms, particularly screenwriting, can interrogate identity, genre, and technological change. Her creative practice is deeply intertwined with theoretical inquiry, exemplified in her PhD work on posthuman noir. Maxine's recent publications and conference presentations highlight a growing emphasis on human-AI collaboration in media creation, as seen in her 2024 AHRC BRAID-funded project Shared Post-Human Imagination . Her scholarly output includes articles in Cinema: Journal of Film and Philosophy , Journal for Cultural Research , and the Palgrave Handbook of Script Development . She has been recognized with awards for her short film Terminal , including Best Short Sci-Fi Film and Best Writer at the Queen Palm International Film Festival (2019). Her external roles include serving as an external examiner for MA Screenwriting programs at several UK universities and as leader of the Screenwriting Research Network’s Practice Based/Led Working Group since 2018. Maxine is actively engaged in public outreach, including events like Rise of the Robot and Which One of Us Is Human? , and has delivered invited lectures at institutions such as UC Riverside and the University of York. Her work bridges academic research, creative production, and public discourse on the future of storytelling.

Philip CowanView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Cinematography
• Film Authorship
• Visual Aesthetics
• +6 more

Dr Philip Cowan is a Senior Lecturer in Film - Cinematography at the University of South Wales, Faculty of Business and Creative Industries. He holds a PhD in Film Authorship and has extensive industry experience, having worked on over 80 film and television productions across drama, documentary, dance/performance, and animation. His research focuses on cinematography's role in film authorship, aesthetics, and visual narrative. Education: PhD by Thesis (2016, MIRIAD), MA Scriptwriting (2003), PGCE/Cert Ed (2001). Research Interests: Cinematography's authorial role, aesthetics of moving images, collaborative filmmaking dynamics, and the technical and theoretical contributions of cinematographers like Gregg Toland and Vittorio Storaro. His work explores how visual style and technical choices shape narrative meaning. Awards: BAFTA Cymru awards, 20 international 'Best Short Film' accolades, and recognition for The Sleeping Mat Ballad (2016). His publications include a 2022 monograph on Gregg Toland and peer-reviewed articles on film theory. Professional Roles: Editorial Board member of Cinematography in Progress , Society for Cinema and Media Studies (SCMS) member, adviser to the Ethiopian Film Initiative, and contributor to global academic and industry events. Labs/Teams: Active in the Creative Industries Research and Innovation Group at the University of South Wales, focusing on interdisciplinary creative projects.

• Cinema Studies
• Italian Cinema
• Media Studies
• +5 more

Giacomo Manzoli is a Full Professor at the Department of the Arts, University of Bologna, specializing in Cinema and Digital Media Studies. His academic work focuses on Italian cinema history, cultural policy analysis, and visual media representation. He holds roles on the University's Board of Directors and committees for Teaching, Research, and Budget. His research explores intersections between politics, media, and cultural identity, with notable publications on fascist cinema, welfare cultural policies, and Italian film historiography. He advises through weekly office hours in Via Barberia 4, Bologna. Though no formal students are listed, his work engages with academic communities globally through transnational media studies projects. His scholarship bridges historical film analysis with contemporary digital media challenges. Education & Affiliations: University of Bologna academic since [information not explicitly provided in text]. Research Interests: Italian cinema history, cultural policy, media literacy, political visual culture, and the economics of state-supported cinema. Awards: No specific prizes listed, though his work received academic commendations like the 2023 Laudatio for Luigi Lai. Grants & Projects: Not explicitly detailed in provided texts. Labs/Teams: Collaborates within the Department of the Arts' academic networks, though specific lab affiliations are not mentioned. His recent publications (2021-2024) analyze topics ranging from welfare cultural frameworks to representations of Roman identity in fascist cinema, reflecting a commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship. Manzoli's work critically engages with national cinematic identity and the evolving role of media in public policy.

Leah MercerView profile

Associate Professor

• Theatre Directing
• Devising Performance
• 20th Century Theatre
• +3 more

Leah Mercer is an Associate Professor at Curtin University's School of Media, Creative Arts and Social Inquiry, part of the Faculty of Humanities. She serves in the Office of the Provost and teaches Theatre Arts, specializing in new work development, directing, and devising performance. Her research focuses on theatre directing practices, feminist performance, and mythology integration. Education: PhD (Performance as Research, Queensland University of Technology, 2009); MFA (Directing for Theatre, California Institute of the Arts, 1999); MA and BA (University of Queensland, 1998/1990). A Fulbright scholar, she has extensive international training in theatre practices. Research interests include collaborative performance creation, feminist thematic exploration, and interdisciplinary performance. Her work with The Nest Ensemble since 2004 emphasizes devised theatre, with notable productions like Joey: the Mechanical Boy (2014 WA Best Director Award) and Home (2015). Her academic work bridges practice and theory, exemplified by her Philip Parsons Prize-winning PhD project The Physics Project (2008). Publications span creative works and scholarly articles, including contributions to Live Research: Methods of Practice-Led Inquiry in Performance and Social Construction in Action . Awards include the Silver Matilda Award for Directing (2007) and recognition for cross-disciplinary educational initiatives. She advises student productions through Curtin's Hayman Theatre Company, directing works by Sarah Ruhl, Bertolt Brecht, and others. Labs/Teams: Co-founder of The Nest Ensemble, a collective producing innovative theatre. Engaged in workshops on mask work, Suzuki training, and Theatre of the Oppressed methodologies.

Ross AngelellaView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Creative Writing
• Screenwriting
• Fiction
• +8 more

Ross Angelella is the Director of the Jiménez-Porter Writers’ House and Senior Lecturer in the College of Arts & Humanities at the University of Maryland College Park, where he has taught since 2014. He also serves as screenwriting faculty at Towson University’s Electronic Media & Film department and leads the Trio Upward Bound Math & Science Program. His academic roles include directing a literary center supporting creative writing across cultures and mentoring students through awards like the Philip Merrill Presidential Scholars Program. Educated at Ithaca College (B.A. in English Literature) and Bennington College (M.F.A. in Creative Writing & Literature), Angelella’s expertise spans screenwriting, fiction, and nonfiction. His research focuses on genres like crime, horror, science fiction, and young adult narratives. He authored the acclaimed novel Zombie (2012) and has published short fiction in Hunger Mountain , Sou’wester , and Coachella Review . His screenplays, such as Nemesis and Kill These Trolls! , have garnered awards including “Best Dark Comedy Short Script” (2020) and “Best Characters in a Screenplay” (2022). He is an active presenter on topics like gun violence in student screenplays and narrative techniques, most recently at the University Film & Video Conference (2023). Award-winning educator, Angelella received the Professional Track Faculty Teaching Award (2019) and mentors students through Angelella Editorial. His creative and academic works emphasize psychological depth, spatial storytelling, and bridging narrative forms.

Nina WerthView profile

Lecturer

• Documentary Filmmaking
• Visual Storytelling
• Migration and Identity
• +7 more

Nina Werth is a lecturer at the Hochschule für Gestaltung (HfG) Offenbach, where she studied film until 2001 and continues to contribute as an educator and creative practitioner. She is affiliated with the School of Art and Design, specifically in the Department of Film, where she supervises the annual film trip for prospective students, guiding them through screenwriting, directing, camera work, sound, and editing. Her role is part-time and rooted in practical instruction. Her research and artistic interests lie at the intersection of documentary filmmaking, visual storytelling, migration and identity, and intercultural experiences in Germany. She views documentary film as a form of serious inquiry, akin to scientific investigation without formal science. Her work emphasizes deep observation, ethical engagement, and creative exploration of social themes. The recent works reflect a strong focus on longitudinal documentaries, personal narratives, and social integration. Projects like Born in Offenbach and Mannheim School demonstrate her commitment to immersive storytelling. Her creative outputs span film, photography, and scriptwriting, with a consistent emphasis on real-life subjects and societal questions. German Television Award, 2013 (for 'Gods Like Us') As a lecturer, she mentors students through hands-on film projects and promotes interdisciplinary thinking and teamwork. Although no formal advising of graduate students is mentioned, her involvement in educational programs indicates active pedagogical engagement. She has collaborated on media projects with institutions like the Wollheim Memorial and broadcasters such as ZDF, contributing to both cultural and historical documentation. She is involved in creative teams and collaborative projects, such as the six-year script development trio with Rainer Ewerrien and Carsten Strauch. Her current work includes developing a new film format and a documentary with an open-ended approach, reflecting her philosophy of entering lives without fully living them.

Cora A. AlleyView profile

Adjunct Associate Professor

• Dramatic Literature
• Creative Writing
• Christian Education
• +7 more

Cora A. Alley is an Adjunct Associate Professor of English in the Department of English at Hope International University, where she teaches courses in composition, literature, dramatic writing, and children's literature. Her academic work is deeply rooted in integrating faith and creative expression, particularly through the use of drama in Christian ministry and education. Her educational background includes an M.A. in Theater, an M.S. in Education, and a B.A. in Theater & English, all from California State University, Fullerton. She also holds multiple teaching credentials and a Hollywood scriptwriting certificate, underscoring her interdisciplinary expertise. Dr. Alley's research and professional interests focus on the use of drama in sermon illustrations, training writers for church and secular audiences, and developing creative curricula for children's ministry. She emphasizes critical thinking, articulate writing, and the artistic communication of the Gospel. Her work bridges academic rigor with practical ministry application. The recent publications and projects reflect a sustained commitment to Christian storytelling across media—ranging from skits and passion plays to magazine columns and curriculum design. These works span decades and demonstrate a consistent focus on evangelism, spiritual formation, and educational innovation within faith communities. Who's Who Among American Educators Outstanding Faculty Service Award, Pacific Christian College Excellence In Children's Ministry Award, International Network of Children's Ministry Excellence in Theatrical Direction, Inland Empire Theater Guild Excellence in Drama Ministry, Crossroads Christian Church Dr. Alley has advised and contributed to numerous ministry training programs and curricula, notably the Children's Ministry Training Series for the International Network of Children's Ministry. She has also been a freelance writer for major Christian publications such as GROUP Magazine, WORSHIP LEADER, and THE LOOKOUT. Her work has been supported through ministry outreach initiatives rather than traditional academic grants, reflecting her unique position at the intersection of education and religious communication. She is actively involved in creating dramatic resources for churches, including original plays, pageants, and skit curricula. Her projects like 'INKspirations' and 'SKITuations' serve as comprehensive tools for youth and adult ministries, emphasizing experiential learning and spiritual engagement.

Francisco Javier Esteban GuineaView profile

Associate Professor

• Constitutional Law
• Philosophy of Law
• Emotional Intelligence in Legal Education
• +4 more

Francisco Javier Esteban Guinea, PhD in Law, is Associate Professor at Camilo José Cela University (UCJC) since 2010 and has previously taught at the Complutense University of Madrid and University of Salamanca. A graduate in Law from the Autonomous University of Madrid (1992), he also holds a DEA in Philosophy of Law (UCM, 1996), an MA in Psychoanalysis and Philosophy of Culture (UCM, 2009/10) and a PhD from UCJC (2012, cum laude ). Research interests revolve around the intersection of constitutional law, philosophy of law and emotional intelligence, with particular focus on freedom of conscience and religion, fundamental rights protection, and the legal implications of psychoactive-substance use within religious practices. He explores how emotional-intelligence tools can improve legal education and the judicial understanding of fundamental rights. Guinea is an active cultural disseminator: he founded and curates the lecture series “Encuentros con lo Sutil” at Madrid’s Conde Duque Cultural Centre—recognised as the city’s most-attended cycle (2014). He has authored seven books, including the best-selling Psicomagia (2008), and directed two documentaries, Arrabal: Genius and Madness (2015), selected at Baghdad and Málaga film festivals. Scientific awards & distinctions Outstanding “cum laude” unanimous grade for PhD thesis (2012) Best-selling book status for Psicomagia (>150 000 copies, 2008) Most-attended lecture series in Madrid: “Encuentros con lo Sutil” (2014) Official selection, Baghdad Film Festival (2016) Official selection, Málaga Film Festival Teaching & societal engagement Teaches Constitutional Law, Philosophy of Law and Emotional Intelligence in the Law Degree, Criminology & Security Degree, and Master’s in Access to the Legal Profession at UCJC Co-founder & advisor, Socio-Educational Association “Teatro que Cura” (2017–present), promoting civic values and gender-violence prevention Former constitutional-law advisor and scriptwriter for the Parliament Interpretation Centre of San Fernando (Cádiz, 2010) He also founded the university magazine Generación XXI (1996-2010) and contributes regularly to national media such as ABC Cultural , El Mundo and El País .

Robin MukherjeeView profile

Lecturer

• Scriptwriting
• Creative Writing
• Screenwriting
• +4 more

Robin Mukherjee is a Lecturer in Scriptwriting at Bath Spa University's School of Writing, Publishing and the Humanities. A multidisciplinary creative practitioner, he works across television, film, radio, and theatre while maintaining active academic engagement through teaching and research. Education: MA Critical and Creative Writing His creative practice spans three decades, with notable achievements including: Feature film 'Lore' (2012) - Australia's official Oscar entry and winner of 10 international awards BAFTA-nominated television series 'Combat Kids' (2011) Published book 'The Art of Screenplays: A Writer's Guide' (2014) Teaching experience at Bath Spa University, Arts University Bournemouth, Birkbeck College, and other institutions Robin has also delivered guest lectures at TEDx Wandsworth (2015) and Staffordshire University (2016), and serves as a PhD supervisor. His work focuses on liberating creative processes in scriptwriting while maintaining technical rigor.

• Digital Media
• Documentary Film
• Interactive Media
• +4 more

Dr. Bettina Frankham is a Senior Lecturer in Digital Media at the School of Communication, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Technology Sydney (UTS). She combines academic practice with creative work at the intersection of documentary, art, and poetry, focusing on aesthetic experience in knowledge creation. Her research explores digital culture’s impact on media production, expanded documentary practices, and immersive technologies like VR/MR. Education: PhD in Digital Media from UTS (2005–2013) Her scholarly output includes over 20 publications analyzing poetic documentary strategies, mobile media aesthetics, and pandemic-era screen education. Recent work investigates high-visibility clothing as a cultural symbol and the role of lists as heuristic tools in documentary. She contributes to academic leadership through roles like Interim Deputy Head of School and editorial board chair for Sightlines: Filmmaking in the Academy . Teaching focuses on Media Arts and Production, with supervision of research students exploring topics like eco-aesthetic filmmaking and autistic-led screen practices. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals for Reduced Inequalities and Quality Education.