Improving Cybersecurity Skills
Albania
Number of recipients
In addition to being a prestigious academic exchange program, the Fulbright Program is designed to expand and strengthen relationships between the people of the United States and citizens of other nations and to promote international understanding and cooperation. To support this mission, Fulbright Scholars may be asked to give public talks, mentor students, and otherwise engage with the host community, in addition to their primary activities.
- Teach courses at the undergraduate or graduate level or both in area of specialization.
- Conduct research in area of specialization.
- Pending specific program needs, the Scholars may also be asked to assist with curriculum revision or new course development. Albanian universities could utilize Scholars' expertise in organizing international conferences and/or special programs. Lecture at the undergraduate and/or graduate level, prepare syllabi, share teaching techniques with information security studies and computer science professors, and help improve undergraduate or graduate studies courses.
The scholar is expected to help students gain knowledge and understanding of technologies and tools that are used to secure information systems. The scholar is expected to collaborate with departmental academic staff to develop cybersecurity course curricula. Applicants selecting the Teaching/Research grant activity may choose how to split the percentage of teaching and research in their proposed project.
Scholars selected for this grant will be required to attend a mandatory Pre-Departure Orientation in Summer 2027
In addition to being a prestigious academic exchange program, the Fulbright Program is designed to expand and strengthen relationships between the people of the United States and citizens of other nations and to promote international understanding and cooperation. To support this mission, Fulbright Scholars will be asked to give public talks, mentor students, and otherwise engage with the host community, in addition to their primary activities.
The Polytechnic University of Tirana (PUT) is a quality institution of higher education founded under the name polytechnic institute in 1951 and is currently a leader in its field of expertise in the country Polytechnic University of Tirana - Public Institution of Higher Education. PUT is the second largest public university in the country with three major campuses located within the capital city of Tirana. It offers study programs at the BA, MA, and PhD levels at all seven faculties/colleges: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Architecture and Urban Planning, Information Technology, Mathematical and Physical Engineering, and Geology and Mining.
The Polytechnic University of Tirana has been awarded by the European Commission the European Certificate for Higher Education Institutions (ECHE) for the period 2021 - 2027. Full partnership cooperation with counterpart institutions at the academic and scientific level is one of the university’s key priorities.
- 4 months - 4.5 months
- October 2027 or February 2028 start date
- Pending final confirmation with the host institution
- Ethical Hacking and security
- Applied Cryptography
- Artificial Intelligence for Cybersecurity
- Cloud and Information Security
- Cloud Computing & Cybersecurity, Computer Networking,
The Faculty of Information Technology (FTI) at Polytechnic University of Tirana seeks a Fulbright Scholar to support faculty, curriculum, and program development, and to teach graduate and undergraduate courses as designated by the host institution. The scholar will collaborate with academic staff to strengthen course curricula in cybersecurity and related fields and will help students acquire practical skills in securing information systems.
FTI is one of the leading faculties at Polytechnic University of Tirana, offering accredited bachelor’s degree programs in Computer Engineering, Electronic Engineering, and Telecommunication Engineering. The faculty also provides scientific master’s and doctoral programs in related disciplines. FTI is committed to building a robust international profile, offering joint and double-degree master’s programs in partnership with renowned universities to promote academic excellence. FTI actively co-organizes and hosts IEEE conferences, facilitating high-quality scientific exchange and enhancing its visibility in the global research community. The faculty strongly encourages international mobility for students and academic staff, supporting academic exchange, joint supervision, and collaborative research initiatives. FTI participates in international research and capacity-building projects focused on its core research areas, with an emphasis on knowledge transfer and institutional development.
Albania’s investment in digital transformation and critical infrastructure protection presents significant opportunities for cybersecurity and AI scholars to build local capacity, develop innovative curricula, and foster research partnerships that address emerging digital challenges. Priority areas include Ethical Hacking and Security, Applied Cryptography, Artificial Intelligence for Cybersecurity, Cloud and Information Security, and Computer Networking. The Fulbright Scholar is expected to engage actively with the university community through public lectures, mentoring, and outreach activities, contributing to the advancement of cybersecurity education and research in Albania.
For more information, contact: Elfrida Shehu, Deputy Rector, Polytechnic University of Tirana at elfridashehu@upt.al and Elinda Kajo Mece, Dean, Faculty of Information Technology, Polytechnic University of Tirana at ekajo@fti.edu.al
All applicants must meet the Program eligibility requirements (click to review the requirements).
The Public Affairs staff at the US Embassy will be happy to help establish contacts between interested applicants and potential host faculty members and/or leaders or provide information.
English is sufficient for teaching. Undergraduate and graduate students are required to take an approved English language standardized test for admission to the university (TOEFL ITP, APTIS, and TOEIC).
Albanian language proficiency sufficient to complete the research project is required.
For applicants without local language proficiency, feasibility of conducting the project must be demonstrated in the project statement.
Applicants with an M.A. or other professional degree and at least five years of substantial experience in their fields. Administrative and academic experience is highly desirable.
You may be asked to participate in an interview as part of the in-country selection process.
Please refer to the figures above for an estimate of total monthly Fulbright award benefits. Benefits may include a monthly base stipend, living and housing allowances, and additional one-time allowances. Benefits may vary based on a scholar's current academic rank (or professional equivalent), the city of placement, the type of award (teaching, teaching/research, or research), and the number of and duration of stay of accompanying dependents. Research-only or Professional Project grantees receive a standard stipend that is not adjusted for academic rank. In most cases, dependent benefits will not be provided to Flex grantees, or to grantees pursuing grants less than four months (or a semester) in length.
Final grant amounts will be determined prior to the start of the academic year and are subject to the availability of funds. The United States Department of State reserves the right to alter, without notice, participating countries, number of awards and allowances.
Albania
Albania offers a distinctive and rewarding environment for scholars seeking meaningful engagement with students and academics in a rapidly evolving European context. Situated at the crossroads of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Albania boasts stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. In recent years, Albania has emerged as a sought-after travel destination, celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant traditions. The country enjoys strong, cooperative relations with the United States, and pro-American sentiment is widespread. As a Fulbright scholar, you will find yourself warmly received by local communities and institutions eager to collaborate and learn from your expertise.
Albania is at a pivotal stage in its development, with growing demand for expertise in fields that are critical to both U.S. and Albanian priorities. The Fulbright Program in Albania welcomes scholars in all disciplines, but there is particular interest in those whose work advances:
- Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Albania is investing in digital transformation and the protection of critical infrastructure. Scholars in cybersecurity and AI can play a vital role in building local capacity, developing curricula, and fostering research partnerships that address emerging threats and opportunities in the digital age.
- Defense and Law Enforcement: As a NATO member and a key partner in regional security, Albania values expertise in defense studies, security policy, and law enforcement. Fulbright scholars can contribute to professional development, policy analysis, and institutional strengthening in these areas.
- Foreign Investment and Economic Development: Albania is actively seeking to attract foreign investment and modernize its economy. Scholars with backgrounds in economics, business, finance, and international law can support efforts to improve the investment climate, promote entrepreneurship, and enhance regulatory frameworks.
Albania’s educational system is dynamic and continually improving, reflecting global trends and the needs of its young, ambitious population. The country’s higher education sector includes 16 public and over 24 private universities, all part of the European Higher Education Area. Degrees follow the 3+2+3 model: a three-year undergraduate program, a two-year Scientific Master’s degree, and a three-year doctoral program. Many universities maintain active partnerships with European institutions, and student exchanges are robustly supported through EU Erasmus programs. They are making serious efforts to internationalize their institutions, identify and develop new partnerships.
Albania’s universities are committed to expanding English-language instruction and international collaboration. The Fulbright Program is highly respected, and the U.S. Embassy’s Public Affairs Section (PAS) in Tirana provides comprehensive support to scholars, including assistance with host institution placement, housing, and a thorough orientation covering Albanian culture, academic life, and practical matters. Find a full list of accredited universities.
Living in Albania is both comfortable and enriching, especially in urban centers where infrastructure and amenities are well developed. Tirana, the capital, offers a range of housing options, with monthly costs typically between $700 and $900. An international English-language school (K-12) is available in Tirana, though English instruction is limited outside the capital.
Internet access is reliable and widespread in urban areas, with cafes and homes offering connectivity. In rural regions, access is more limited, but mobile networks are commonly used. While electronics are available, they tend to be more expensive than in the U.S.
Albania’s unique blend of ancient history, cultural diversity, and religious harmony creates a stimulating environment for academic and personal growth. Scholars consistently remark on the country’s inspiring mix of civilizations and the genuine hospitality of its people.
Throughout your grant period, you will have opportunities to participate in cultural enrichment activities and engage with a variety of audiences, both academic and non-academic. The PAS team is dedicated to ensuring your experience is productive, safe, and rewarding.
The country’s openness to international collaboration and its commitment to educational advancement—especially in high-priority fields such as cybersecurity, AI, defense, foreign investment, and law enforcement —make it an ideal destination for scholars ready to make a difference.
For further information contact Educational Program Advisor Mirela Cupi Cupim@State.Gov, CultureandEducationTirana@state.gov, or visit the U.S. Embassy website
U.S. Fulbright Scholar Jay Shapiro worked at the School of Magistrates and Law School of Tirana University. https://www.instagram.com/p/CtJ4gz7qprl/?igsh=YmdmdjFvcXhzbW54&img_index=1
Monika Hanley, Jay Shapiro, BetsAnn Smith, David Eric Archer, Melissa Perry, Elizabeth Daniels
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