Melanie M. Mika

Melanie M. Mika serves as a researcher at the University of Tübingen's Institute of Media Studies within the Faculty of Humanities. Since May 2022, she has coordinated Erasmus programs and supported guest researchers while specializing in television series analysis and mental health discourses. Her professional background includes sound design expertise developed through a media designer apprenticeship at Südwestrundfunk Stuttgart.

Her research centers on serial media representations, particularly examining character theory frameworks through the lens of mental illness in American television. This focus emerged from her doctoral dissertation funded by the German National Academic Foundation (2019-2022), which analyzed portrayals of psychological conditions in serial narratives. Her methodological approach integrates media practice knowledge from over a decade of freelance work in radio production and video post-production at SWR.

Mika's publication record since 2020 reveals consistent contributions to media studies journals, with thematic clusters examining

• mental health representations in series like Mr. Robot
• evolution of media vocational training
• narrative constructions of self-optimization culture

Her interdisciplinary work bridges media studies, clinical psychology, and cultural theory, featuring in publications including ffk Journal and Rundfunk und Geschichte.

Notable recognition includes:

• German National Academic Foundation Fellowship (2019-2022) supporting her doctoral research
• Appointment as examiner for media designer apprenticeships at the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce

Mika maintains active industry connections through ongoing freelance work with SWR since 2010, specializing in sound design for SWR4 BW and digital content creation. She serves as primary contact for the Tübingen Media Days while advising students during designated office hours via Zoom/Teams or campus meetings.