Selected Fellows
Project Title: Structural Health Monitoring Based on Internet of Things Solutions
Diaspora Fellow
Grigor Angjeliu
Assistant Professor
Politecnico di Milano, Italy
Resident Fellow:
Markel Baballeku
Lecturer
Polytechnic University of Tirana
Field of Study: Engineering
Abstract: The recent earthquake during 2019 in Albania, showed the necessity to conduct experimental work to understand the structural health of existing buildings. The project proposes the application of two Structural Health Monitoring SHM solutions in two case studies: a) historical monument and b) bridge infrastructure. In each case study, a number of sensors will be installed to monitor parameters such as cracks, vibrations, temperature and humidity. Internet of Things architecture will be used to transmit collected data on the cloud. The created dashboard will be used to visualize the monitored structural quantities and make judgements on the structural system’s health.
Project Title: Introducing Big Data and Emerging Artificial Intelligence in Albania
Diaspora Fellow
Arben Asllani
Professor
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, USA
Resident Fellow
Kreshnik Vukatana
Lecturer
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Computer Science
Abstract: Universities play an important role in preparing qualified professionals with data analytic skills that are academically qualified and business world-ready. To meet the ever-growing demand in this field, the Department of Statistics and Applied Informatics must upgrade its curriculum offerings to include the latest technologies. Big Data analytics is an emerging trend that we need to include in the curriculum.
Project Title: Optimisation and Implementation of a Molecular Approach for Bioaerosols Identification
Diaspora Fellow
Bationa Bennewitz
Research Group Leader
Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany
Resident Fellow
Merita Xhetani
Lecturer and Researcher
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Biology
Abstract: The aim of this project is to identify the presence of aeroallergens, possibilities, and limitations of specific detection and quantification strategies. This work consists of harmonization, development of protocols, and knowledge exchange to the detection of bioaerosols like fungi, bacteria, and viruses using low-cost methods. We will develop and use molecular biology-based techniques for monitoring the presence of indoor aeroallergens. This project will substantially contribute to a better understanding of our indoor environment, including the systematic exposure assessment of specific aeroallergens, as well as to engage students and young researchers with hands-on techniques in molecular biology.
Project Title: Media Communications as a Result of Public Relations and Marketing Campaigns
Diaspora Fellow
Lindita Camaj
Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies
University of Houston, USA
Resident Fellow:
Alban Tartari
Associate Professor and Lecturer
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Journalism
Abstract: Media communications and productions in Albania, are generally products of PR and marketing campaigns. More than the interest of the Albanian public, the interests of politicians, corporations, and media owners are dominating the public discourse. Therefore, a deep reading of public media products and news editions, and prime-time TV programs (mainly political talk shows), will be monitored and analyzed. The hypothesis of this work would be: Albanian public, and especially the young people, are abandoning traditional media as they could not find their interests manifested in the media discourse.
Project Title: Interpretation/Translation in Virtual Reality
Diaspora Fellow
Bardhyl Demiraj
Professor
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany
Resident Fellow:
Ema Kristo
Lecturer
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Language
Abstract: The course “German and Albanian for translation and interpretation” which we intend to implement in the study curriculum Master in Translation is conceived as a new approach, with European features and dimensions expressed in goals, structure and content. Through this course we highlight the need for specialists in the field of translation, as one of the areas in increasing demand at a time when the German language is playing a very important role.
Project Title: Migrant Remittances and Informality as Drivers of Business Venturing in the Emerging Economy Context of the Western Balkans
Diaspora Fellow
Endrit Kromidha
Associate Professor
University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
Resident Fellow
Dorina Koci
Lecturer
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Business
Abstract: The Western Balkans have been always known for high emigration rates and hence having large diaspora. Migrants send remittances to their countries, becoming a developing factor especially in case of emerging economies. The impact of remittances, from macro and microeconomic point of view has been widely studied in literature. However, there’s little evidence on how these flows of money impact the business venturing in emerging economy context of Western Balkans. High level of informality, discourage foreign investors to invest in such countries. Hence, migrant remittances can become a very important source of businesses financing
Project Title: Right to Information in Albania: Decisions of the Commissioner on the Right to Information and Data Protection and Court Practice
Diaspora Fellow
Darinka Piqani
Assistant Professor
Leiden University, Netherlands
Resident Fellow
Eralda Methasani Çani
Professor
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Law
Abstract: The project aims to elaborate the right to information in Albania in a two-fold approach: firstly its aims to analyse the Commissioner on the Right to Information and Data Protection decisions and the court practice through the research component in producing two scholarly materials, a scientific article and a study. Secondly, it aims to contribute through joint efforts of Albanian and diaspora scholars into the professional formation of Albanian law students, School of Magistrates and public employees regarding the right to information through academic seminars, lectures, forums and webinars.
Project Title: Use of Administrative Data as a Powerful Resource for Social Work Research in Social Care Policies and Practices
Diaspora Fellow
Lantona Sado
Associate Researcher
Italian Geographic Society (SGI) and University Roma 3e, Italy
Resident Fellow
Eliona Kulluri-Bimbashi
Lecturer and Head of Department of Social Work
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Social Work
Abstract: The administrative data are increasingly important source of information for cutting-edge research initiatives in social protection and care. However, the academics and researchers faces several challenges in understanding and using these data as a result of wide quantity, issues of inconsistency in terminology and standardization. A strong conceptual basis for a research data infrastructure that is efficient and sustainable reveals essential. In short, understanding the potentials, advantages and disadvantages of administrative data, their access and quality, allows good quality research and policy prescriptions to be carried out to further the goal of social protection and care reform in Albania.
Project Title: Development of Simulation and Forecasting Models and Integration with the TCIA Database of Medical Images
Diaspora Fellow
Kita Sallabanda Diaz
Professor
Instituto de Radiocirugía Avanzada, Spain
Resident Fellow
Dafina Hyka
Lecturer and Researcher
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Physics
Abstract: This research project aims to conduct advanced studies on the development and use of artificial intelligence models in medical imaging for common cancers, in routine, preventive examinations for cancers such as breast cancer and colon cancer. In breast cancer, tissue micro calcification can often be difficult to finally identify as malignant or benign. False positives can lead to incorrect and unnecessarily invasive testing or treatment, while missed malignancies can result in delayed diagnoses and worse outcomes. Therefore, if a proper simulation. Also we to Increase cooperation with other actors abroad such as public and private hospitals, companies etc.
Project Title: The Evaluation and Comparison of New CAD CAM Prosthetic Materials
Diaspora Fellow
Bruna Sinjari
Senior Researcher
Università degli Studi “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti – Pescara, Italy
Resident Fellow
Edit Xhajanka
Lecturer and Dean
University of Medicine
Field of Study: Dental Sciences
Abstract: The objective is to evaluate the ageing rate, the mechanical properties and the biocompatibility of different kinds of CAD/CAM glass-ceramics used in Prosthodontics. A total of 60 intact human maxillary molars after being mounted in acrylic resin, will be scanned to acquire biogeneric copies. Specimens will be prepared through clinical preparation standards, up to 2 mm above the cement-enamel junction. The specimens will be divided into three groups and crowns will be designed using biogeneric copies and will be milled from the different kinds of CAD/CAM glass-ceramics such as: lithium disilicate, zirconia reinforced lithium silicate ceramics, high-translucent zirconia disks.
Project Title: Challenges to Compliance with Humanitarian and Human Rights Law During Armed Conflicts
Diaspora Fellow
Gentian Zyberi
Professor Dr.
Norwegian Centre for Human Rights
University of Oslo, Norway
Resident Fellow
Fjorda Shqarri
Lecturer
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Law
Abstract: Today’s world is facing conflicts which are resulting in massive violations of international law and human rights. The international human rights and humanitarian law provide both obligations for the protection of individual human rights. The project seeks to provide clarity to area of law by offering a depth analysis regarding the scope of application of international human rights treaties and humanitarian law during armed conflicts. Following an analytic and qualitative approach, the research papers will examine the jurisprudence of the international human rights courts case law in dealing with new emergencies in armed conflicts.
Project Title: Building collaborative research capacity and preliminary data related to pesticide and per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination of ground and surface waters in Albania.
Diaspora Fellow
Anila Bello
Research Professor
University of Massachusetts Lowell, USA
Resident Fellow
Magdalena Cara
Full Professor
University of Agriculture of Tirana
Field of Study: Agriculture
Abstract: Agriculture is a major sector of the Albanian economy, however, compliance with European food safety and environmental standards is lacking. Pesticide use can contribute to the contamination of food and water bodies with hazardous chemicals to human health. We propose to characterize pesticide and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination of Albania’s water irrigation sources e.g wells, rivers, and reservoirs. These preliminary data will be used to develop a subsequent research grant to identify hot stops and contamination sources. The long-term goal of this research is to generate evidence for a national strategy to regulate pesticide use for sustainability.
Project Title: Preparing next-generation food safety professionals through mentored research activities emphasizing rapid and advanced laboratory methods
Diaspora Fellow
Bledar Bishar
Associate Professor and Head
University of Wyoming, USA
Resident Fellow
Anisa Peculi
Vice Dean
University of Agriculture of Tirana
Field of Study: Public Health
Abstract: Food safety is a significant concern for all consumers and a critical problem for the global food chain. The project aims to strengthen the academic and technical skills of students of FBF in the field of food safety and public health, by providing access to organized and hypothesis-driven research opportunities employing rapid, molecular, and advanced laboratory methods for Food Safety Control (FSC).This project will implement effective instructional methods to better prepare students for real-world challenges and opportunities, while benefitting public health and economic development in the country by adding more qualified professionals to the workforce.
Project Title: The Use of Urban Blue-Green Spaces and its Impact on Health-Evidence from Albania
Diaspora Fellow
Olta Braçe
Researcher/Professor
University of Seville, Spain
Resident Fellow
Elena Kokthi
Lecturer/Researcher
University of Agriculture of Tirana
Field of Study: Social Sciences
Abstract: Detailed knowledge about specific health impacts of urban green and blue spaces is essential for sustainable, health-promoting urban development as part of an urban health strategy (Völker et al., 2018) (WHO,2021). In this context, this project aims to explore the relationship between urban green-blue spaces and well-being in Albania. The studies that will be undertaken under the READ project will contribute to a better understanding of how urban green-blue spaces (UGBS) contribute to health and well-being by linking UGBS accessibility indices, residential UGBS exposure and health data, which is essential information for policymakers to take appropriate decisions in urban planning.
Project Title: Analysis of Higher Education Financing in Albania
Diaspora Fellow
Lefter Daku
Associate Dean of Finance & Administration
Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University, USA
Resident Fellow
Skënder Uku
Head of Department of Finance and Accounting
University of Agriculture of Tirana
Field of Study: Accounting/Finance
Abstract: We plan to pursue the following activities in collaboration with a Diaspora Scholar on a READ Fellowship:
Co-teaching: A set of lectures on technological change and agricultural trade policies with a special focus on Albanian agriculture.
Collaborative research/Joint research project: Analysis of Higher Education Financing in Albania.
Joint supervision of PhDs: Co-chair a Ph.D. student; Dissertation title: “Input-output analysis of the impact of agricultural financing policies in Albania.”
Project Title: Literature as a tool for the promotion of soft skills and improvement of curriculum
Diaspora Fellow
Eva Ndrio de Carvalho
CEO
LIDH Foundation, Portugal
Lidia Radi
Professor
University of Richmond, USA
Resident Fellow
Shqipe Haxhihyseni
Lecturer
Aleksander Moisiu University, Durrës
Field of Study: Education
Abstract: The educational content in Albania has remained fragmented despite the changes that have been made to curriculum. The new teachers need to be equipped with transversal skills that are fundamental and indispensable for their preparation. They also need modern educational approaches that are relevant to social, cultural, technological and curricular changes that have recently happened. The goal of this project is to improve curriculum through literature analysis and close readings that will be addressed in “Curriculum Development” course at Education Faculty. Part of these lecturers will be new teachers, who will implement the findings of the project in their schools.
Project Title: Communicative and Brain Based Learning through Literature: Pre-Service Teacher Training
Diaspora Fellow
Adriana Fishta-Bejko
Doctor of Education (retired)
University of Calgary, Canada
Resident Fellow
Dalila Karakaçi
Lecturer of English Literature and Didactics
Luigi Gurakuqi University, Shkodër
Field of Study: Literature
Abstract: The use of literary texts is a component of EFL teaching and learning as well as a good method of language learning. Short stories, poetry, novels, plays act as a basic role in the process of English language teaching and learning. Consequently, the introduction of literary texts in the ESL/EFL classroom should be seen from a positive viewpoint after the launch of Communicative Language Teaching in 1970s, 1980s. These literary genres help students to foster their learning of English in all levels of the Albanian educational system. Our goal is to ameliorate the quality and relevance of the educational system.
Project Title: Exploitation of the ALBanian germplasm of ORiganum vulgare L. for sustainable cultivation (EALBOR)
Diaspora Fellow
Nazim Gruda
Prof Dr
University of Bonn, Germany
Resident Fellow
Alban Ibraliu
Professor
University of Agriculture of Tirana
Field of Study: Agriculture
Abstract: Oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) is one of the most important aromatic plants with a lovely taste. The oregano essential oils are responsible for their characteristic odour, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The collection of oregano from wild plants is intensive and accompanied by destructive elements. These collection methods in spontaneous areas led to include the Origanum vulgare L. in the Red Book of Floras in Albania, with the status “endangered”. Extended research on germplasm is urgently needed because genetic resources, diversity and the potential for utilization of oregano are scarce and have not yet been fully explored.
Project Title: Sustainable Education-Fostering transversal skills and employability of the students
Diaspora Fellow
Erina Guraziu
PhD
University of Florence, Italy
Resident Fellow
Perseta Grabova
Lecturer
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Economics
Abstract: This project intends to evaluate the impact that new teaching methods have on students’ knowledge and skills, aiming at increasing their employability and impacting higher education knowledge systems in Albania. Applying an approach of mixed methods and an experimental strategy, through this research we will assess the impact of new teaching methodologies on skill and employability of students. A report/action plan will be published to provide suggestions for Higher Education sector on how to enhance employability skills of students through active learning and teaching methodologies.
Project Title: Farmers’ attitude towards risk in the context of climate change
Diaspora Fellow
Ardian Harri
Professor
Mississippi State University, USA
Resident Fellow
Edvin Zhllima
Associate Professor and Vice-Dean
University of Agriculture of Tirana
Field of Study: Economics
Abstract: Agriculture production faces a number of risks, including production risk which is exacerbated by climate change. The situation is especially critical in the case of Albania given that it is among the most exposed countries to climate change in Europe while on the other hand, farmers do not have access to production related insurance. The purpose of this paper is to investigate farmers’ perceptions about climate change and different types of risks and demand for insurance, in the case of Albania, a post-communist economy, where there is a clear market failure in the provision of agriculture insurance.
Project Title: REUNITED – Real Estate and University Toward Expert Diaspora
Diaspora Fellow
Indrit Hoxha
Associate Professor
Pennsylvania State University Harrisburg, USA
Resident Fellow
Kleida Heta
Lecturer of Finance
Luigi Gurakuqi University, Shkodër
Field of Study: Accounting/Finance
Abstract: It has been more than three decades that most of the domestic capital in Albania goes into the Construction Industry. According to INSTAT, about 1.5 billion euros are invested yearly in building/housing construction. The total area in square meters of building permits issued in 2021 is the highest of the last decade for Albania. This trend will continue, regardless of the population decline. Why is building construction increasing? Where is the capital coming from? What is the economic contribution? How sustainable is this trend? These are some of the issues we will study through this research collaboration.
Project Title: Introduction to new “Risk Management” methodology – Improvement on Lectures Notes and Research area
Diaspora Fellow
Xhevrije Mamaqi Salillari Kapllani
Contracted PhD
University of Zaragoza, Spain
Resident Fellow
Rovena Vangjel
Head of Finance Accounting Department
Aleksander Moisiu University, Durrës
Field of Study: Accounting/Finance
Abstract: Identifying, quantifying, and predicting financial risk is vital for the decision-making process and the design of sound economic policies. The geopolitical events of the last years have exacerbated the need for techniques and tools to analyze and understand risk and how they can be applied in Albanian financial institutions. This project aims to collaborative research, coteaching, and module development for Risk Management as a module in Masters’s classes. This project will introduce possibilities to access new literature, methods of teaching, and econometric laboratory experiments. Also, the process will consist of coteaching and joint research with submitting a final research paper.
Project Title: Is living in rural areas making it harder to find a spouse and working in agriculture?
Diaspora Fellow
Genti Kostandini
Professor
University of Georgia, USA
Resident Fellow
Adrian Cerava
Lecturer/Head of Erasmus Office
Fan S. Noli University, Korça
Field of Study: Economics
Abstract: Albania is an ex-communist country that experienced one of the harshest communist regimes. After communism fell, in 1990, there was a mass migration exodus to the neighboring countries, Greece and Italy, especially among the youth. Given the more attractive incomes in EU countries, youth still aspires to migrate outside the country. This phenomenon is more pronounced in rural areas, where the main source of income is agriculture.
Project Title: Didactics of multilingualism and interculturality (Linguistic and cultural diversity in the context of education)
Diaspora Fellow
Ardian Marashi
Associate Professor
National Institute of Oriental Languages and Civilizations, Paris, France
Resident Fellow
Florinda Tarusha
Lecturer
Aleksander Xhuvani University, Elbasan
Field of Study: Education
Abstract: The research project “Didactics of multilingualism and interculturality” will be carried out in the Department of Teaching Methodology, in the Faculty of Education Sciences, with a duration of one year. Basically, the project is dedicated to examining: 1) teachers’ experiences with multilingualism and interculture; 2) implementation of strategies in multilingual and intercultural classes; 3) professional development in dealing with a diverse environment.
Also other important issues of the project are:
a. raising awareness of students’ linguistic and cultural heterogeneity,
b. practice in elementary procedures of multilingual didactics.
Project Title: Development of machine learning techniques and neural network algorithms in Physics – A step toward CERN – CMS collaboration
Diaspora Fellow
Ilirjan Margjeka
Doctor of Philosophy in Physics
CMS experiment at CERN, INFN section of Bari, Italy
Resident Fellow
Rudina Osmanaj
Associate Professor
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Physics
Abstract: Big data nowadays are the keyword in all aspects of life, including physics too. In complex systems, particle physics, geomagnetism etc, we have to deal with big data, their analysis and very often we have to build new algorithms and forecasting models, such as neural network algorithms or machine learning techniques.
Every year the CMS Collaboration, is looking for new members. This year Albania has the opportunity to join to the CMS collaboration, but we have to train the academic staff, develop algorithms suitable for the CMS data analysis and improve the technical infrastructure as a first step toward CERN.
Project Title: Entrepreneurial Education and Innovation Initiatives, New Challenges of Universities
Diaspora Fellow
Valentina Ndou
Associate Professor
University of Salento, Italy
Resident Fellow
Dorina Kripa
Head of Department of Finance
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Business
Abstract: In recent years universities are developing new objectives of internationalization, higher integration with business challenges and research orientated on market needs. In knowledge intensive sectors, relationships with universities and other public research organizations take on growing importance for succession of innovation and further entrepreneurial processes in SME-s. This project aims to strengthen the university-business link in the context of challenges for innovation, entrepreneurial initiatives, sustainable development and new conditions influenced by COVID-19. The project has the ambition to address the need for development of new objectives for the university alongside traditional objectives and its higher integration in problem solving.
Project Title: Strengthening Healthcare Research Capacity Of The Academic Staff, Doctoral And Master Students, And Nurses
Diaspora Fellow
Nertila Kulla Podgorica
Dr. Phil
Health University of Applied Sciences Tyrol/UMIT Hall in Tirol, Austria
Resident Fellow
Julian Kraja
Vice Dean of the Faculty of Natyral Sciences
Luigi Gurakuqi University, Shkodër
Field of Study: Medical Sciences
Abstract: This project will offer activities on methods to strengthen the scientific research productivity of academic staff, assistant lecturers, doctoral and master students, and nurses in the Nursing Department at the University of Shkodra. Our goal is to develop sustainable abilities and skills for performing high-quality evidence based practice research. They will deepen participants knowledge and capabilities to conduct evidence based research in nursing and other healthcare sciences. Successful completion of the training modules is required for all participants.
Project Title: The Woman-Friendly City: Case Studies of Post-Industrial Areas in Tirana
Diaspora Fellow
Dorina Pojani
Senior Lecturer
University of Queensland, Australia
Resident Fellow
Erida Curraj
Lecture
Polytechnic University of Tirana
Field of Study: Architecture
Abstract: Research on gender issues in urban planning is almost non-existing in Albania. Yet, the barriers that women face in the capital, Tirana, are major. Neither the transport nor the housing system adequately meets the needs of women. We will conduct research on how former industrial districts in Tirana, which were designed during Communism based on “scientific” standards and quotas, respond to the contemporary needs of women and families. We will focus on two case studies: Kombinati and Porcelain, which are located on opposite poles of the city. This study will have both theoretical and practical relevance for the planning sector.
Project Title: Curriculum development for the Program Master of Science in Healthcare Management
Diaspora Fellow
Dasantila Sherifi
Assistant Professor and Program Director
Rutgers University, USA
Resident Fellow
Blerta Dragusha
Faculty Dean
Luigi Gurakuqi University, Shkodër
Field of Study: Accounting/Finance
Abstract: Healthcare is a dynamic field with many complex problems that a manager will face in the future. Creative and flexible professionals with a proper academic background are needed to successfully deal with these problems. A healthcare manager must be optimally prepared for this position and should develop personal, academic, and reflective skills. The primary objective of this project is the need to create a Master of Science in Healthcare Management and work on creating a strong and attractive curriculum.
Project Title: Research design Expertise: Methods for Teaching and Publications
Diaspora Fellow
Elton Skendaj
Associate Director of the Democracy and Governance Program, &
Assistant Teaching Professor in the Government Department
Georgetown University, USA
Resident Fellow
Ada Aliaj
Deputy Dean for Scientific Research
Aleksander Moisiu University, Durrës
Field of Study: Accounting/Finance
Abstract: The “Research design Expertise: Methods for Teaching and Publications” project aims to pursue two activities in collaboration with a Diaspora Scholar. Co-teaching a course on mixed research methods for teaching assistants and PhD students in person for the overall development of scientific research. Collaborative research which will end up with a joint research paper on Life insurance determinants. A comparative analysis of developed and developing countries. This project will contribute to connect Business Faculty (UAMD) with peers abroad in order to promote internationalization, which is one of the priorities of our faculty.
Project Title: A study on the properties of geopolymer binders produced from clay
Diaspora Fellow
Ilda Tole
Postdoctoral Researcher
Luleå University of Technology, Sweden
Resident Fellow
Sidorela Vishkulli
Lecturer and researcher
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Chemistry
Abstract: Cement industry is a major contributor to environmental pollution. In order to overcome environmental problems caused by the building sector, some alternatives are considered. One of these promising alternatives are alkali-activated binders. This project is focused on the studying of geopolymer binders produced by alkali-activation of slag and kaolin. The raw materials and the hardened products will be characterised with different tests in order to determine the best conditions that produce a high performance product. In general it is expected to have products with better properties compared to ordinary Portland cement and with lower environmental pollution.
Project Title: MASTER DOUBLE DEGREE IN NATURAL LANGUAGE PROCESSING: aligned with national interests and demands in human capacity development
Diaspora Fellow
Edlira Vakaj
Lecturer of Computer Science
Birmingham City University, United Kingdom
Resident Fellow
Eglantina Gishti
Professor
University of Tirana
Field of Study: Computer Science
Abstract: University of Tirana has establish a double degree master program in Natural Language Processing (NLP) with the University Sorbonne Paris Nord, in France. This is the first and the only program in this field of study which the main aim is to form a first generation of specialists in this domain. The program in The Natural Language Processing (NLP) track is intended for students who wish to gain expertise in NLP technologies and applications. NLP technologies are of central importance in automating the analysis of text and speech databases and in enabling man-machine interactions through natural language.