Justin Ness

Justin Ness is a Continuing Lecturer in Purdue University Northwest's Department of English and World Languages. His research examines narrative structures in novels and films, with current projects focusing on the narratological function of 'jump scares' in horror cinema and the historical development of horror as a literary genre distinct from gothic traditions.

Ness teaches courses on English composition, narrative theory, and the evolution of horror film. His scholarly approach investigates how narratives create, sustain, and resolve audience engagement through structural techniques.

Education includes:

• Ph.D. in English Literature from Northern Illinois University
• M.A. in British & American Literature from Northern Illinois University
• B.A. in Biblical Studies/Biblical Languages from North Central University

Awards recognizing his scholarship:

• Harlan R. Teller Dissertation Award (2019)
• Best Presentation Award at International Conference on Language, Literature and Linguistics (2017)