Nina Zimnik

Nina Zimnik is a Professor at the University of Applied Sciences Lucerne (School of Engineering and Architecture), specializing in comparative literature, film studies, and media education. She holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from SUNY Buffalo and has held visiting roles at institutions such as ESILV Paris and Regis College, Boston. Her research focuses on feminist theory, postcolonialism, and cultural studies, with notable work on Leni Riefenstahl, Kara Walker, and film aesthetics. She co-founded Wagadu, a transnational journal of gender studies, and chairs the CAS Diversity Management program. Awards include grants from the Friedrich Ebert Foundation and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Zimnik serves on boards of the Musée Visionnaire and The Journey Project Bahamas, advocating for mental health and cultural preservation.

Her academic career spans over 30 years, including roles at Zurich University of Applied Sciences and Teacher Training Colleges. She has authored/co-edited books such as Die andere Hälfte der Globalisierung and published extensively on film, literature, and media. Notable articles include analyses of Blade Runner, Jackie Brown, and Leni Riefenstahl’s Olympia. Her teaching emphasizes intercultural communication, 'Swissness,' and critical media literacy.

Zimnik’s work bridges theory and practice, including film production (e.g., Musée Visionnaire) and advocacy for diversity education. Her recent projects include developing a master-level diversity management program and researching addiction narratives. She remains active in academic conferences, lecture series, and editorial roles across disciplines.