Dr. Iggy Cortez

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Iggy Cortez is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Film & Media at the University of California, Berkeley. His scholarly work focuses on global cinema, contemporary art, and the epistemologies of visual culture. He explores the sensory dimensions of digital media and the aesthetics of minoritarian perspectives, as well as the relationships between cinema and other media. Currently, he is developing a book project titled "Nights on Earth: World Cinema Nocturnal Sensorium," which investigates the impact of nighttime settings in recent global cinema and their connection to technologically-mediated perception and affective sensory experiences in the historical present. His writings have been featured in numerous journals, including the forthcoming Journal of Cinema and Media Studies, Camera Obscura, Film Quarterly, and Discourse. Cortez is also known for his editorial work on "Performative Opacity: The Work of Isabelle Huppert." He previously held positions at Vanderbilt University and Swarthmore College and has curated exhibitions and film series at various cultural institutions.

Research Interests

Experience

Assistant Professor

2022-08-01 — Present

University of California, Berkeley • Berkeley, CA

Teaching and researching world cinema and visual culture.

Assistant Professor

2018-08-01 — 2022-06-01

Vanderbilt University • Nashville, TN

Instructed courses in cinema and media arts.

Visiting Assistant Professor

2017-08-01 — 2018-05-01

Swarthmore College • Swarthmore, PA

Conducted film and media studies lectures and seminars.

Requirements for University of California, Berkeley

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
GRE Subject
Overall Score
Required:500
Overall
Required:500
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent Preparation comparable to undergraduate major at Berkeley in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics 2 full years lower-division work (Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Multivariable Calculus) 8 one-semester upper-division courses (Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, Abstract Algebra, Linear Algebra)
Application Checklist
  • Graduate Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Personal History Statement
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • C.V./Resume
  • Course and Textbook List
Specialization Notes

The Mathematics Subject GRE is required for the Fall 2026 admissions cycle. General GRE is optional.