Bernhard Fuchs

Bernhard Fuchs is an Associate Professor at the Institute for European Ethnology, which is part of the Faculty of History and Cultural Studies at the University of Vienna. He has been affiliated with the institute since completing his doctorate in 1997 and has served as an assistant professor since 2007. Currently, he holds the position of Associate Professor and also serves as Vice-Department of Study Programs, where he is responsible for curriculum planning and academic matters in European Ethnology.

Dr. Fuchs studied folklore (now European Ethnology) along with ethnology, sociology, political science, and Indology at the University of Vienna. His academic journey began with a diploma thesis focused on newspaper hawkers, followed by a dissertation examining the economics of people of South Asian descent in Vienna. His educational background forms the foundation for his extensive research in cultural studies, migration, and media.

Fuchs' research interests span globalization, mobility and borders, cultural transfer, cultural industries, media, celebrity culture, and fan culture. A long-standing focus of his work has been the analysis of Bollywood from the perspective of European Ethnology. His scholarly approach examines how cultural elements move across borders and transform in new contexts, particularly looking at how Indian cinema influences and is influenced by global audiences. He has also conducted significant research on ethnic economies, especially South Asian communities in Vienna, exploring how cultural identity intersects with economic practices.

His publication record reveals a consistent engagement with transnational cultural phenomena, particularly the global reach of Bollywood cinema. Fuchs' work demonstrates a methodological approach that combines ethnographic observation with media analysis, examining both production and reception aspects of cultural phenomena. His recent publications continue to explore the intersections of media, migration, and cultural identity, with particular attention to how digital technologies have transformed fan practices and cultural consumption.

As Vice-Department of Study Programs, Fuchs plays a significant role in shaping academic curriculum in European Ethnology. He is also a founding member of the network 'Euro-Bollywood Research,' which reflects his commitment to fostering international scholarly collaboration around his primary research interest. His consultation hours are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, indicating his active engagement with students and the academic community at the University of Vienna.