Nels Rogers

Nels Rogers is a Professor of German Studies and Director of the German Studies program at the University of Kentucky. He also serves as Director of the International Film Studies Certificate and Coordinator of the Max Kade German House and Cultural Center. Born in the desert and raised in the woods, his academic journey began during his schooling in Germany during the Cold War, fostering a passion for literature, ideas, and intellectual discourse.

Education: Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania; B.A., University of Oregon.

Research focuses on German film post-unification, the horror genre's global dimensions, and the intersection of aesthetics with politics. His work also integrates German as a Foreign Language (DaF) pedagogy, second language acquisition, and curriculum design. Current research explores mass culture in 20th/21st-century Germany, particularly film's role in SLA environments.

Publications emphasize innovative teaching methods using film and cultural themes, including pandemic pedagogy and proficiency-oriented approaches. His reviews in Colloquia Germanica and Unterrichtspraxis highlight engagement with contemporary German literature and experimental film.

Labs/Teams: Oversee the Max Kade German House, fostering German cultural engagement on campus and beyond.