Curriculum Vitae (2018) Sajmir Beqiraj

PERSONAL INFORMATION Prof. Dr. Sajmir Beqiraj

Addres: Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tirana Bulevardi “Zogu i Parë”, 25/1, 1001 Tirana, Albania Phone: +355684030613 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]

Sex: M | Date of birth: 05/ 04/ 1973 | Nationality: Albanian

WORK EXPERIENCE

From 1996 – to date Hydrobiologist and Zoologist; Researcher and Lecturer Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tirana Bulevardi “Zogu i Parë”, 25/1, 1001 Tirana, Albania (www.unitir.al; www.fshn.edu.al) ▪ Main activities and responsibilities: Research topics: - benthic invertebrates in aquatic habitats (marine, brackish and freshwater); - ecology of aquatic habitats (marine, brackish and freshwater); - marine alien and invasive species in the Mediterranean; - ecological and environmental assessment, conservation and monitoring of aquatic habitats (marine, brackish and freshwater). Teaching subjects: - Hydrobiology (course of Bachelor in Biology III); - Aquatic Ecology (course of Master in Environmental Biology I); - Marine Biology (course of Master in Environmental Biology II); - Methods for the Study of Fauna (course of Master in Environmental Biology I); - Invertebrate Zoology (1999 – 2013) (course of Bachelor in Biology I);

From 2010 to 2016 Invited Lecturer (part-time) Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Shkodra “Luigj Gurakuqi” Sheshi 2 Prilli, Rruga Studenti 24, Shkodër, Albania (www.unishk.edu.al) ▪ Main activities and responsibilities: Teaching subjects: - Hydrobiology (course of Master in Environmental Biology I); - Invertebrate Zoology (2015 – 2016) (course of Bachelor in Biology I);

From 2012 – to date Invited Lecturer (part-time) Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Vlora “Ismail Qemali” Skelë, Rruga Kosova, Vlorë 9401, Albania (www.univlora.edu.al) ▪ Main activities and responsibilities: Teaching subjects: - Hydrobiology (course of Bachelor in Biology III); - Aquatic Ecology (course of Master in Environmental Biology I); - Methods for the Study of Fauna (course of Master in Environmental Biology I).

From 2014 to 2015 Invited Lecturer (part-time) Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Gjirokastra “Eqrem Çabej” Rruga Studenti 30, Gjirokastër, Albania (www.uogj.edu.al) ▪ Main activities and responsibilities: Teaching subjects: - Aquatic Ecology (course of Master in Environmental Biology I);

EDUCATION

1991 – 1996 Graduated biologist (5 years program, equivalent to the current 3+2 years program) Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tirana, Albania

1997 – 1999 Master of Biological Sciences (Postgraduate level) Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tirana, Albania

1999 – 2004 Doctor of Biological Sciences (equivalent to the PhD) Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tirana, Albania

From 2012 Full Professor (academic title) Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tirana, Albania

SELECTED QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING ______February & March 2018 Leibnitz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB), Berlin, Germany. Relations between benthic macroinvertebrates and physical-chemical characteristics in the rivers. July 2013 University of Zurich, Switzerland. Multidisciplinary Biodiversity Research and Conservation in Alpine Ecosystems. July – August 2010 Natural History Museum, London, UK. Relation between morpho-geometrics and habitat ecological characteristics of the lagoon snail Cerithideopsilla (Pirenella) conica. September 2008 Institute of Coastal Research, Helmholtz Center, Geesthacht, Germany. Study and conservation of coastal ecosystems. June 2008 Nautilus s.p.a. Vibo Valentia, Italy. Mapping and cartography of marine benthic habitats and the seagrass Posidonia oceanica meadows. March 2008 University of Bari, Italy. Ecological and taxonomic study of marine benthic habitats. October 2007 Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation. Croatia. Methods for Study and Conservation of Cetaceans. April 2005 University of Lecce, Italy Ecological assessment of the coastal lagoons. November 2004 UNEP-MAP, RAC/SPA, RAMOGE, Italy Inventory methods of the Coastal Mediterranean habitats. September 2004 University of Pisa & University of Genova, Italy Study and conservation of benthic habitats in Marine Protected Areas. January – April 2004 University of Bari, Italy Taxonomy and ecology of coastal Malacofauna. March & April 2001 University of Lecce, Italy Qualification on Marine Biology research and teaching. June 1999 University of Lecce, Italy Training course on study and conservation of marine benthic habitats. September 1999 Hydrobiological Institute of Ohrid, Rep. of Macedonia. Qualification on freshwater benthic ecology. Aug. 1998 – Jan. 1999 Natural History Museum, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany Qualification on malacological research.

PERSONAL SKILLS © European Union, 2002-2018 | europass.cedefop.europa.eu Page 2 / 13 Curriculum Vitae (2018) Sajmir Beqiraj

Mother tongue: Albanian

Other languages UNDERSTANDING SPEAKING WRITING Listening Reading Spoken interaction Spoken production English Very good Very good Very good Very good Very good French Good Good Good Good Good Italian Good Good Good Good Good German Basic Basic Basic Basic Basic Esperanto Basic Basic Basic Basic Basic

Other skills  Diving for underwater research (holding an international certificate for underwater research).  Driving licence, category B PUBLICATIONS (in chronological order):

1. Beqiraj, S., Dhora, Dh. (1999). Data on radula of Holandriana holandrii of Shkodra Lake. Bio & Eko. University of Shkodra. (4): 16 – 19.

2. Beqiraj, S. (2001). New data on the Family Melanopsidae (Mollusca: Caenogastropoda). Variations of radula of Holandriana holandrii from Shkodra Lake – Polymorphism or taxonomic feature? Biological Studies. Institute of Biological Research.Tirana. Nr. 5-6: 287 – 292.

3. Dhora, Dh., Beqiraj, S. (2001). Biodiversity of River Buna. APAWA, Albania/REC, Hungary. 28 pp.

4. Dhora, Dh., Beqiraj, S. (2001). Lagoon of Patok. UNDP, GEF/SGP, ShMGjUSh. Tirana. 44 pp.

5. Beqiraj, S. (2001). Mollusks. - In “Biodiversity in the coastal ecosystem Delta of Vjosa – Narta Lagoon.” UNDP, GEF/SGP, SHBSH. Tirana: 46 – 52.

6. Koni, M., Beqiraj, S. (2002). Biometrical analyses of the population of Tapes decussatus (L, 1758) (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Veneridae) in the Coastal Lagoon of Viluni. Albanian Journal of Natural and Technical Sciences. Academy of Sciences of Albania. Tirana: 41-45.

7. Beqiraj, S., Peja, N., Kasemi, D. (2002). Malacofauna of Narta Lagoon. The Bulletin of Natural Sciences. FNS. University of Tirana: 67 – 73.

8. Beqiraj, S. (2003). Taxonomic and ecological data on malacofauna of Viluni Lagoon. The Bulletin of Natural Sciences. University of Shkodra. Nr. 50: 99-109.

9. Beqiraj, S., Sulejmani, E. (2003). Taxonomic and ecological data on malacofauna of Karavasta Lagoon and characteristics of its habitats. Biological Studies. Institute of Biological Research. Tirana: Nr. 11: 97 – 110.

10. Beqiraj, S. (2004). A comparative taxonomic and ecological study with biogeographic data on malacofauna of Albanian coastal lagoons. 216 p. University of Tirana (Doctoral thesis).

11. Beqiraj, S. (2004). Assessment of the situation of malacofauna in Karavasta Lagoon. –in “Environmental dynamics of the wetland areas in the Albanian coastal zone”, University of Bari, Italy. (2): 67 – 73.

12. Kashta, L., Beqiraj, S., Mato, Xh., Xhulaj, M., Gaçe, A., Mullaj., A. (2005). Marine underwater meadows – green lungs of the Mediterranean. APAWA, Ed. Julvin. Tirana: 47 pp.

13. Beqiraj, S., Laknori, O. (2006). Taxonomic and ecological assessment of the malacofauna of Patoku Lagoon. The Bulletin of Natural Sciences. University of Shkodra. Nr. 56: 129 – 144.

14. Wager, J., Haywood, J., Vincent, R., Kumbaro, R., Kuçi, F., Beqiraj, S., Nuredini, F. (2006). Study for Integrated Territorial Planning of Drini Bay, including Strategic Environmental Assessment. EU, ELPA, Jacobs. Tirana. 322 pp.

15. White, M., Kouroutus, V., Plytas, A., Gace, A., Vaso, A., Beqiraj, S., Haxhiu, I. (2006). Sea turtles in Albania: Results of a rapid assessment of possible foraging and over-wintering habitats (October – November 2005). 26-th Annual Symposium on sea turtle biology and conservation. Crete, Greece.

16. Beqiraj, S. (2006). Sharks, cetaceans and sea turtles of the Albanian coast- In “Cetaceans, sea turtles and sharks of the Adriatic Sea”. Fondazione Cetacea, Rimini: 21 – 30.

17. Basset, A., Pinna, M., Sabetta, L., Sangiorgio, F., Abbiati, M., Ponti, M., Fonda Umani, S. , Faresi, L., Simboura, N., Nicolaidou, A., Arvanitidis, C., Moncheva, S., Trayanova, A., Georgescu, L., Beqiraj, S.,

Orfanidis, S., Reizopoulou, S. (2006). An approach to Mediterranean lagoon typology from patterns of macroinvertebrate distribution. Transitional states in transitional and coastal waters. Identifying mechanisms and developing indicators of habitat or water quality shifts. Fisheries Research Institute. Kavala, Greece.

18. Ponti, M., Pinna, M., Basset, Fonda Umani, S., Minocci, M., Reizopoulou, S., Nicolaidou, A., Arvanitidis, C., Moncheva, S., Trayanova, A., Georgescu, L., Beqiraj, S., Orfanidis, S., Abbiati, M. (2006). Bio-geographic patterns of benthic biotic indices in relation to typologies of Mediterranean and Black Sea coastal lagoons. Transitional states in transitional and coastal waters. Identifying mechanisms and developing indicators of habitat or water quality shifts. Fisheries Research Institute. Kavala, Greece.

19. Sangiorgio, F., Basset, A., Pinna, M., Sabetta, L., Abbiati, M., Ponti, Minocci, M., Reizopoulou, S., Orfanidis, Arvanitidis, C., Nicolaidou, A., Moncheva, S., Trayanova, A., Georgescu, L., Beqiraj, S., Koutsoubas, D. (2006). Decomposition processes of reed leaves in transitional waters: a large scale study case. Transitional states in transitional and coastal waters. Identifying mechanisms and developing indicators of habitat or water quality shifts. Fisheries Research Institute. Kavala, Greece.

20. Basset, A., Sabetta, L., Pinna, M., Abbiati, M., Ponti, M., Fonda Umani, S., Reizopoulou, S., Nicolaidou, A., Arvanitidis, C., Moncheva, S., Georgescu, L., Beqiraj, S. (2006). Macro-ecology of body size traits in benthic communities of Mediterranean and Black Sea lagoons. 55. In: Measuring and monitoring changes in estuaries and lagoons. Abstract of the ECSA 41st International conference. Scuola Grande San Giovanni Evangelista, Venice, Italy, Venice. 140 pp.

21. Beqiraj, S. (2006). Zoobenthos – In “Biodiversity in the marine area Lalzi Bay – Rodoni Bay”. MSHN, MMPAU. Tirana: 42 – 51.

22. Beqiraj, S., Kasemi, D. (2006). Ecological assessment of the macrozoobenthos in the shallow rocky coasts of Vlora. The Bulletin of Natural Sciences. University of Vlora. (6): 41 – 49.

23. Beqiraj, S., Pinna, M., Basset, A., Nikleka, E., Fetahu, B., Doka, E., Ismailaj, M., Barbone, E., Sangiorgio, F., Fedele, M. (2007). Preliminary data on the macrozoobenthos of the Albanian coastal lagoons (lagoons of Patok, Karavasta, Narta). Transitional Waters Bulletin, University of Lecce, Italy. vol.1, nr.3: 37 - 43.

24. Sangiorgio, F., Basset, A., Pinna, M., Sabetta, L., Abbiati, M., Ponti, M., Minocci, M., Orfanidis, S., Nicolaidou, A., Moncheva, S., Trayanova, A., Georgescu, L., Dragan, S., Beqiraj, S., Koutsoubas, D., Evagelopoulos, A., Reizopoulou, S. (2007). Ecosystem processes: litter breakdown patterns in Mediterranean and Black Sea transitional waters. Transitional Water Bulletin, University of Lecce. Italy. vol.1, nr.3: 51-55.

25. Beqiraj, S., Koni, M. (2007). Taxonomic and ecological assessment on malacofauna of the Kune Lagoon (Albania, Adriatic Sea). 3d Congress of Ecologists of Macedonia. Struga. Oct. 6-9. 2007

26. Beqiraj, S., Kashta, L. (2007). Preliminary data on benthic macrofauna associated to the meadows of Posidonia oceanica in the Albanian coast. The Bulletin of Natural Sciences, University of Shkodra. Nr. 58: 107 – 121.

27. Kashta, L., Xhulaj, M., Mato, Xh., Beqiraj, S., Gace, A. (2007). The state of Posidonia meadows along the Albanian coast: general evaluation. 3-d Mediterranean Symposium on Marine Vegetation. Marseilles, France: 121 – 125.

28. Beqiraj, S., Dhora, Dh. (2007). Regional importance of the fauna of the cross-border River Buna [in Rivers and Citizens – Cross-border experiences in environment protection and sustainable development; edited by M. Pinna, V. F. Uricchio, M. Aresta, A. Basset]. University of Salento: 37 – 49.

29. Beqiraj, S., Kashta, L., Kuci, M., Kasemi, D., Mato. Xh., Gace. A. (2008). Benthic macrofauna of Posidonia oceanica meadows in the Albanian coast. Natura Montenegrina 2008/7(2): 55 – 69.

30. Kasemi, D., Beqiraj, S., Ruci, S. (2008). Macrozoobenthos of the rocky coast of Vlora, Albania. Natura Montenegrina 2008/7(2): 133 – 145.

31. Ponti, M., Pinna, M., Basset, A., Moncheva, S., Trayanova, A., Georgescu, L., Beqiraj, S., Orfanidis, S., Abbiati, M. (2008). Quality assessment of Mediterranean and Black Sea transitional waters: comparing responses of benthic biotic indices. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Vol. 18, Issue S1: 62 – 75.

32. Basset, A., Sabetta, L., Sangiorgio, F., Pinna, M., Migoni, D., Fanizzi, F., Barbone, E., Galuppo, N., Fonda Umani, N., Reizopoulou, S., Nicolaidou, A., Arvanitidis, C., Moncheva, S., Trajanova, A., Georgescu, L., Beqiraj, S. (2008). Biodiversity conservation in Mediterranean and Black Sea lagoons: a trait-oriented approach to benthic invertebrate guilds. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Vol. 18, Issue S1: 4 – 15.

33. Sangiorgio, F., Basset, A., Pinna, M., Sabetta, L., Abbiati, M., Ponti, M., Minocci, M., Orfanidis, S., Nicolaidou, A., Moncheva, S., Trayanova, A., Georgescu, L., Beqiraj, S., Dragan, S., Koutsoubas, D.,

Evagelopoulos, A., Reizopoulou, S. (2008). Environmental factors affecting Phragmites australis litter decomposition in Mediterranean and Black Sea transitional waters. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Vol. 18, Issue S1: 16 - 26.

34. Panneta, P., Mastrototaro, F., Beqiraj, S., Matarrese, A. (2009): Molluscs of soft bottoms in Valona Bay. Biologia Marina Mediterranea (16 (1): 328 – 329.

35. Pititto, F., Grenci, S., Dedej, Z., Gace, A., Kashta, L., Beqiraj, S., Acunto, S., Bulgheri, G., Cinelli, F., Sivini, N., Greco, R., Torchia, G. (2009): Cartography and protection of the Posidonia oceanica meadows along the Albanian coast. [Cartografia e protezione delle praterie di Posidonia oceanica lungo la costa albanese]. Biologia Marina Mediterranea. 16 (1): 324 – 325.

36. Nikleka (Llukovi), E., Beqiraj, S. (2009). A taxonomic and ecological study on macrozoobenthos of Patoku lagoon. Albanian Journal of Natural and Technical Sciences. Academy of Sciences of Albania (25).

37. Kashta, L., Beqiraj, S. (2009). Analysis of the proposed potential Marine Protected Areas. Protected Areas Gap Assessment and Marine Protected Areas Development in Albania, (UNDP, GEF, MEFWA). Technical report, 81 pp.

38. Beqiraj, S., Kashta, L. (2010). The establishment of blue crab Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896 in the Lagoon of Patok, Albania (south-east Adriatic Sea). Aquatic Invasions 5 (2). DOI 10.3391/ai 2010.5.2: 219 - 221.

39. Beqiraj, S., Fraschetti, S., Gačić, M., Joksimović, A., Mascle, J., Notarbartolo di Sciara, G., Odorico, R. (2010). Scientific rationale for the proposed CIESM South Adriatic Sea Marine Peace Park. CIESM Workshop Monographs Nr. 41. Monaco.

40. Fraschetti, S., Beqiraj, S., Gačić, M., Mascle, J., Odorico, R. (2010). Scientific rationale for the proposed CIESM North Ionian Sea Marine Peace Park. CIESM Workshop Monographs Nr. 41. Monaco.

41. Maiorano, P., Mastrototaro, F., Beqiraj, S., Costantino, G., Kashta, L., Gherardi, M., Sion, L., D'Ambrosio, P., Tursi, A. (2011). Bioecological study of the benthic communities on soft bottom of the Vlora Gulf (Albania). Journal of Coastal Research. Florida (58): 95 - 105.

42. Fraschetti, S., Terlizzi, A., Guarnieri, G., Pizzolante, F., D'Ambrosio, P., Maiorano, P., Beqiraj, S. Boero, F. (2011). Effects of unplanned development on marine biodiversity: a lesson from Albania. Journal of Coastal Research. Florida: (58) 106 - 115.

43. Corsi, I., Tabaku, A., Nuro, A., Beqiraj, S., Marku, E., Perra, G., Tafaj, L., Baroni, D., Bocari, D., Guerranti, C., Cullaj, A., Mariottini, M., Shundi, L., Volpi, V., Zucchi, S., Pastore, A. M., Iacocca, A., Trisciani, A., Graziosi, M., Piccinetti, M., Benincasa, T., Focardi, S. (2011). Ecotoxicological assessment of Vlora Bay (Albania) by a biomonitoring study, using an integrated approach of sub-lethal toxicological effects and contaminants levels in bioindicator species. Journal of Coastal Research. Florida: (58) 116 - 120.

44. Kashta, L., Beqiraj, S., Tilot, V., Zuna, V., Dodbiba, E. (2011). The first MPA in Albania, Sazani Island – Karaburuni Peninsula, as a regional priority conservation area for marine biodiversity. Varstvo narave. Ljubljana: 139 - 155.

45. Katsanevakis, S., Poursanidis, D., Yokes, B., Mačič, V., Beqiraj, S., Kashta, L., Sghaier, Y. R., Zakhama-Sraieb, R., Benamer, I., Bitar, G,. Bouzaza, Z., Magni, P., Nike Bianchi, C., Zenetos, A. (2011). Twelve years after the introduction of the Sally Lightfoot Crab Percnon gibbesi (H. Milne Edwards, 1853) in the Mediterranean: current distribution and invasion rates. Journal of Biological Research. Thessaloniki (16): 224 - 236.

46. Katsanevakis S., Zenetos A., Mačič V. Beqiraj S., Poursanidis D. & Kashta L. (2011): Invading the Adriatic: spatial patterns of marine alien species across the Ionian-Adriatic boundary. Aquatic Biology (13): 107 - 118.

47. Beqiraj, S. (2011). Nature conservation in the Kune - Vaini wetlands, Albania. – In: Culture and wetlands in the Mediterranean: an evolving story. Edited by: Th. Papayannis and D. Pritchard. Med-INA. Athens. 438 p.

48. Kasemi, D., Ruci, S., Beqiraj, S. (2012). Macrozoobenthos of the shallow rocky shore of Jonufra. [The original in Albanian: Te dhena per makrozoobentosin e brigjeve te ceketa shkembore te Jonufres]. The Bulletin “Mathematics and Natural Sciences” University “Eqerem Çabej” Gjirokaster. Nr 35: 207 – 226.

49. Ruci, S., Gogo, S., Beqiraj, S., Kashta, L. (2012). Natural values of the Sazani Island – Karaburuni Peninsula, as good tools and indicators for the conservation and management of the first MPA of Albania. Med-MPA Forum, Antalya, Turkey, 25 – 28 November 2012.

50. Kasemi, D., Ruci. S.,Selimi. E., Selmani. J., Beqiraj. S., (2012). Malacofauna of the rocky shore of Orikum. [The original in Albanian: Te dhena per malakofaunen e brigjeve te ceketa shkembore te Orikumit]. The Science Bulletin, University of Shkodra "Luigj Gurakuqi". Nr. 62: 124 – 140,

51. Ruci, S., Kasemi, D., Beqiraj, S. (2013). Comparative study on macrozoobenthos of rocky areas of the Adriatic Sea in Albania between spring and summer seasons. Albanian Journal of Natural and Technical Sciences (AJNTS): 125-134.

52. Kasemi, D., Ruci, S., Beqiraj, S. (2013). Coastal macrozoobenthos of Uji i Ftohte (Vlora Bay). [The original in Albanian: Të dhëna per makrozoobentosin e brigjeve të Ujit të Ftohtë (Gjiri i Vlorës)]. Buletini Shkencor, Universiteti "Ismail Qemali" Vlore. ISSN: 2310-6719. Nr.1/ Volumi 1: 59-67.

53. Miho, A., Kashta, L., Beqiraj, S. (2013): Between the Land to the Sea – ecoguide to discover the transitional waters of Albania. FNS, University of Tirana, Albania. Pp. 462.

54. Kasemi, D., Ruci, S., Beqiraj, S. (2014). Comparative studies of macrozoobenthos between Uji i Ftohte and Orikum coasts (Vlora Bay, Albania). Journal of International Academic Research for Multidisciplinary (JIARM). ISSN 2320-5083, Volumi 2, Issue 10: 167 – 178.

55. Ruci, S., Kasemi, D., Beqiraj, S. (2014). Data on macrozoobenthos in rocky areas of the Adriatic sea of Albania. International Journal of Research in Applied, Natural and Social Sciences. (IMPACT: IJRANSS). ISSN(Online): 2321-8851, Vol.2, Issue 2: 63-70.

56. Kasemi, D., Ruci, S., Beqiraj, S. (2014). Comparative study on macrozoobenthos between Nimfa and Jonufra coasts (Vlora bay, Albania). Virtual Multidisciplinary Conference QUAESTI, December, 15 – 19, 2014. Zilina, Slovak Republic.

57. Kasemi, D., Ruci, S., Beqiraj, S. (2014). Comparative study on macrozoobenthos between Jonufra and Radhima coasts (Vlora Bay, Albania). International Journal of Research in Applied, Natural and Social Sciences. (IMPACT: IJRANSS). ISSN: 2321-8851. Vol.2, Issue 2: 177 – 186.

58. Ruci S., Kasemi, D., Beqiraj, S. (2014). State of Macrozoobenthic Community in Adriatic Rocky Shores of Albania in Spring Season. Albanian Journal of Agricultural Sciences (AJAS). ISSN: 2218-2020. Volume 13, Issue 3: 42 – 49.

59. Kasemi, D., Ruci, S., Beqiraj, S. (2015). Comparative Study on Macrozoobenthos Between Nimfa and Radhima Coasts (Vlora bay, Albania). Journal of Environmental Protection and Ecology (JEPE), Vol.16: 98-109.

60. Selmani, J., Beqiraj, S. (2015). Associated macrozoobenthic communities to the Posidonia meadows of Sazani island (Albania). Mediterranean Seagrass Workshop, Oristano, Italy, 18-22 May 2015.

61. Selmani, J., Ruci, S., Beqiraj, S., Kasemi, D. (2015). Preliminary data on macrozoobenthos of the Sazani Island (South-Eastern Adriatic Sea, Albania). 6th International Symposium of Ecologists of Montenegro. Ulcinj, Montenegro, 15 – 18 October 2015.

62. Selmani, J., Beqiraj, S., Kashta, L. (2015). Specially important marine benthic species and habitats from Sazani Island, Albania. BENA 3rd International Conference “Research and Education in Natural Sciences - Harmonization of Environmental Research and Teaching with Sustainable Policy”. Shkoder, Albania, 6 – 8 November 2015.

63. Zenetos, A., Mačić, V., Jaklin, A., Lipej, L., Poursanidis, D., Cattaneo-Vietti, R., Beqiraj, S., Betti, F., Poloniato, D., Kashta, L., Katsanevakis, S., Crocetta, F. (2016). Adriatic Opistobranchs (Gastropoda, Heterobranchia): Shedding light on biodiversity issues. Marine Ecology, Vol. 37, Issue 6: 1239 – 1255. WILEY.

64. Blanfuné, A., Boudouresque, C.F., Verlaque, M., Beqiraj, S., Kashta, L., Nasto, I., Ruci, S., Thibaut, T. (2016). Response of rocky shore communities to anthropogenic pressures in Albania (Mediterranean Sea): Ecological status assessment through the CARLIT method. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 109 (1): 409–418. ELSEVIER.

65. Selmani, J., Beqiraj, S. (2016). Macrozoobenthos of the mediolittoral of Sazani island (South-Eastern Adriatic Sea, Albania). 5th Congress of Ecologists of the Republic of Macedonia. Ohrid, Macedonia, 19 – 22 October 2016.

66. Zdraveski, K., Petri, L., Trajanovski, S., Beqiraj, S., Loshkoska, T. (2016). First contingent valuation of Lake Ohrid biodiversity. MMM Geo Information, Geo-SEE Institute. Nr. 6: 62 – 74.

67. Milori, E., Beqiraj, S. (2016). The establishment of the invasive blue crab Callinectes sapidus in the Lagoon of Vain (South-Eastern Adriatic Sea, Albania). 5th Congress of Ecologists of the Republic of Macedonia. Ohrid, Macedonia, 19 – 22 October 2016.

68. Zylaj, A., Peçulaj, A., Beqiraj, S. (2016). Assessment of macrozoobenthos and environmental quality in the Albanian part of Macro Prespa Lake. 5th Congress of Ecologists of the Republic of Macedonia. Ohrid, Macedonia, 19 – 22 October 2016.

69. Milori, E., Beqiraj, S. (2016). Data on the population of the invasive blue crab Callinectes sapidus in the Lagoon of Karavasta (Albania). Workshop on Risk Assessment Tools in Aquatic Species. Düzce, Turkey, 28 – 29 April 2016.

70. Milori, E., Beqiraj, S. (2016). Distribution of the invasive blue crab Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896 in the Lagoon of Viluni (Albania, South-east Adriatic Sea). European Coastal Lagoons Symposium – EUROLAG 7. Murcia, Spain, 1 – 4 March 2016.

71. Miho, A., Paparisto, A., Beqiraj, S., Hamzaraj, E., Hysko, M., Puto, K. (2016). Biological quality of waters in the Vjosa catchment. The Vjosa Science Conference. Tirana, Albania, 8 – 9 June 2016.

72. Shumka, S., Bego, F., Beqiraj, S., Paparisto, A., Kashta, L., Miho, A. (2016). Current knowledge of biodiversity in Vjosa river system - counting threats that jeopardize species and ecosystems survival. The Vjosa Science Conference. Tirana, Albania, 8 – 9 June 2016.

73. Ruci, S., Kasemi, D., Beqiraj, S. (2017). Seasonal comparisons of the state of benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages from different rocky areas of the Adriatic Sea in Albania. Albanian Journal of Agricultural Sciences. Vol. 16: 207 – 212.

74. Milori, E., Qorri, L., Ibrahimi, E., Beqiraj, S. (2017). Distribution, population structure and establishment of the invasive blue crab Callinectes sapidus Rathbun,1896 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Portunidae) in the Lagoon of Viluni (South-East Adriatic Sea, Albania). Albanian Journal of Agricultural Sciences. Vol. 16: 485 – 492.

75. Miho. A., Paparisto A., Bego. F., Kashta L., Shuka L., Beqiraj S., Shumka S., Bino T., Nika O. (2017). HPPs development within the Vjosa catchment (Southern Albania) vs. Conservation of Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). Second International Conference on “Biotechnology in Agriculture”, UBT, 18-19 April 2017. https://sites.google.com/a/ubt.edu.al/ajas/

76. Beqiraj, S., Xhullima, A., Zyruku, D. (2017). Ecological and environmental assessment of Langarica River, based on benthic macroinvertebrates as bioindicators. International Workshop on Vjosa River. University of Tirana, University of Vienna, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Vienna. Tirana 19 September 2017.

77. Shumka, S., Bego, F., Beqiraj, S., Paparisto, A., Kashta, L., Miho, A., Shumka, L., Mali, S. (2018): Trading-of freshwater biodiversity and hydropower in a unique Balkan hotspot. The Holistic Approach to Environment, 8 (4): 114-123.

78. Miho, A., Beqiraj, S., Graf, W., Schiemer, F. (2018). The Vjosa river system in Albania: a summary of actual challenges and agendas. Acta ZooBot Austria 155: 377 - 385.

79. Shumka, S., Bego, F., Beqiraj, S., Paparisto, A., Kashta, L., Miho, A., Nika, O., Marka, J. & Shuka, L. (2018). The Vjosa catchment – a natural heritage. Acta ZooBot Austria 155: 349–376.

80. Beqiraj, S., Haring, E., Sattmann, H. (2018). Research concepts for the collaboration between the University of Tirana and the Museum of Natural History Vienna on the freshwater invertebrates of Albania. Workshop “Ecology and Biogeography of Karst Gastropods”. Podgorica, 12 November 2018.

81. Beqiraj, S., Ballesteros, E., Kashta, L., Ruci, S., Ndou, F. (2018). Assessment of the state of macrozoobenthos and benthic habitats in the proposed Marine Protected Area of Rodoni Cape. Albanian Conference on Biology and Environment (KShBM - ACBE). 28 – 30 September 2018. Prishtina.

82. Beqiraj, S., Ballesteros, E. (2018). Assessment of the state of marine biodiversity in the Albanian littoral. Albanian Conference on Biology and Environment (KShBM - ACBE). 28 – 30 September 2018. Prishtina.

83. Nasto, I., Metlli, K., Kasemi, D., Beqiraj., S. (2018). Population structure of the Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus (Rathbun, 1896) in two Albanian lagoons (south Adriatic). Fish Forum 2018. FAO & GFCM, 10 – 14 December 2018, Rome.

84. Beqiraj, S., Ballesteros, E., Nasto, I., Nezha, E., Pashaj, L. (2019). Assessment of the state of macrozoobenthos and benthic habitats in the Karaburun Peninsula (Albania). AdriBioPro 2019 International Conference; Adriatic Biodiversity Protection. 7 – 10 April 2019. Kotor, Montenegro.

85. Zdraveski, K., Petri, L., Trajanovski, S., Beqiraj, S., Budzakoska Gjoreska, B., Trajanovska, S., Trichkova, T. (2019). First Contingent Valuation of the Endemic Species: Salmo letnica Karaman, 1924 (Actinopterygii: Salmonidae) and Gocea ohridana Hadžišce, 1956 (Gastropoda: Hydrobiidae) from Lake Ohrid. Acta Zoologica Bulgarica, Supplement 13: 99 – 106.

PROJECTS (starting from the most recent)

Date Location Company / Institution Position Description from – date to 2017- Albania, European Union. Project coordinator EU Program Interreg Balkan – Mediterranean. Project RECONNECT. 2019 Greece, for Albania; Regional cooperation for the transnational ecosystem sustainable development. Cyprus, Expert marine Bulgaria biologist 2018 - Albania, GEF, UNEP, MAP Expert marine GEF Adriatic Project: National Integrated Monitoring Programme 2019 Montenegro biologist 2018 - Albania UNDP, iC consulenten shpk Expert marine Gap analysis and consecutive data collection on habitats, species and socio-economic data 2019 biologist throughout the coastal and marine areas 2019 Albania EU, EBRD, ADF, SUES, IPF6 Expert Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) / Infrastructure Project Facility Technical Consortium hydrobiologist Assistance 6 (IPF6): Shkodra/Skadar Lake area, Villages of Shiroka and Zogaj, Water Supply and Sewage Systems and Improvement of Waste Management: Feasibility Study and ESIA. 2018 - Austria, WTZ / OEAD, NASRI Project coordinator Austria / Albania Scientific & Technological Cooperation 2020 Albania for Albania; Project: Assessment and diversity of aquatic mollusc assemblages of Belshi karstic lakes in Expert Central Albania using integrative taxonomy. hydrobiologist 2018 - Austria, European Union. Project coordinator CEEPUS Program. 2019 Poland, for Albania; Project EcoManAqua: Ecology and Management of aquatic ecosystems in Central, East and Slovenia, Expert Southeast Europe Rumania, hydrobiologist Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Albania, Serbia, Macedonia, Montenegro. 2017- 27 European European Union. Expert on aquatic COST Program. SMIRES Project. 2019 countries ecology and Science and Management of Intermittent Rivers & Ephemeral Streams. macrozoobenthos 2016 - Albania Freiland & Enso (Austria). Expert Ecological and environmental assessment of Langarica river (Vjosa catchment), based on 2017 hydrobiologist benthic macroinvertebrates as bioindicators. 2017 Albania Conservatoire du Littoral, Project coordinator Small Mediterranean Islands initiative (PIM).

© European Union, 2002-2018 | europass.cedefop.europa.eu Page 8 / 13 Curriculum Vitae (2018) Sajmir Beqiraj France. APAWA. for Albania; Biodiversity and Ecological assessment of small Ionian islands in Albania (Ksamil, Kepi i Expert marine Stillos, Tongo). biologist 2016- 28 European European Union. Expert marine COST Program. MarCons Project. 2019 countries biologist Advancing marine conservation in the European and contiguous seas. 2015 Albania WAITT Foundation, USA; Project Assessment of ecological and environmental state of the existing and proposed MPAs of Univ. Tirana. coordinator; Albania. Expert marine biologist 2014 Albania UNDP, GEF, ME. Team leader; Assessment of marine benthic habitats in the proposed MPA Rodoni Cape. Expert marine biologist 2013 - Albania Mati Hydropower. Expert Environmental Impact Assessment on aquatic habitats and benthos of Mati River. 2014 Hydrobiologist 2013 - Albania GIZ, Germany Expert CSBL project. 2014 hydrobiologist Assessment of macrozoobenthos and ecological state of Prespa and Shkodra lakes. 2013 Albania UNEP, RAC/SPA; INCA. Team leader; Assessment of marine benthic habitats in the proposed MPA Porto Palermo. Expert marine biologist 2012 - Albania European Union, Expert Study of benthic macroinvertebrates in Buna River. 2013 Global Water Partnership – hydrobiologist. Mediterranean. 2012 - Albania European Union. Project coordinator Program IPA Adriatic. NETCET project. 2015 Italy APAWA. for Albania; Network for Conservation of Cetaceans and Sea Turtles in the Adriatic Slovenia Expert marine Croatia biologist Montenegro 2011 - Albania Conservatoire du Littoral, Project coordinator Small Mediterranean Islands initiative (PIM). 2013 France. APAWA. for Albania; Assessment of biodiversity and environmental state of Sazani island. Expert marine biologist 2012 Albania UNDP, GEF, MEFWA. Expert marine Improvement of coverage and management of Coastal and Marine Protected Areas of biologist Albania. 2010 – Albania World Bank, GEF, APAWA. Team leader. LSIEMP project. 2012 Preparation of the Management Plan for Shkodra Lake. 2011 Albania, European Union. Team leader IPA Cross-border Program Albania – Montenegro. Montenegro INCA, APAWA. Preparation of the integrated study to support the designation of the transboundary Lake Shkodra/Skadar as biosphere reserve. 2011 Albania TAP Pipeline; ERM. Expert Environmental Impact Assessment of the TAP Pipeline on aquatic habitats and benthos. hydrobiologist 2011 Albania European Union. Expert Monitoring of Erzeni River project.

© European Union, 2002-2018 | europass.cedefop.europa.eu Page 9 / 13 Curriculum Vitae (2019) Sajmir Beqiraj EFA, Univ. Tirana. hydrobiologist. Assessment of macrozoobenthos and environmental state of Erzeni river. 2010 - Albania & UNEP-MAP; RAC/SPA, Project coordinator Rapid assessment of marine alien species in the Albanian and Montenegrin coasts. 2011 Montenegro APAWA, HCMR, IMBK for Albania; Expert on marine alien species 2009 - Albania & NIVA, Norway Expert Developing biological tools according to the Water Framework Directive for Lake Ohrid 2011 Macedonia HIO Macedonia, hydrobiologist. Monitoring. AUT Albania. 2009 - Albania, Italy, European Union, Wetland and FP6 Program. ClimBioMedNet project. 2011 France, Spain, University of Montpellier 2, benthos expert Climate change influence on biodiversity, goods and services of Mediterranean lagoons. Tunisia University of Tirana

2010 Albania GEF, UNDP, Expert Prespa Lake project. ECAT, MEFWA. hydrobiologist Training of the local stakeholders on the integrated management and monitoring aspects in Prespa Lakes. 2009 - Albania NorConsulting (Norway), Expert Devolli HP project. 2010 VEVE. hydrobiologist. Environmental Impact Assessment on aquatic habitats and benthos in Devolli River. 2009 - Albania ERM S.p.a Expert marine Assessment of Marine Biodiversity for the Environmental Impact Assessment in the Joni - V 2010 biologist license area (Ionian Sea, Albania). 2008 - Albania UNDP, GEF, MEFWA Team leader; Protected Areas Gap Assessment and Marine Protected Areas Development in Albania. 2010 Expert marine biologist 2006 - Norway, Research Council of Norway Expert marine Marine science and coastal management in the Adriatic, Western Balkan. An education and 2009 Albania, (West Balkan Program). biologist research network. Montenegro,S erbia, Croatia 2007 - Albania Italian Office for Development Expert marine Survey of the seagrass Posidonia oceanica habitats in Albania: cartography of habitats along 2008 Cooperation; GAO; Nautilus biologist. the Albanian coast and capacity building for management of the coastal area. S.p.a. 2006 - Albania, Italy European Union, Project coordinator Program Interreg III. CISM Project. 2008 CoNISMa Italy, for Albania; Technical Assistance for Establishment and Management of an International Centre for Marine University of Tirana, Academy Expert marine Studies in Albania. of Sciences of Albania; biologist Ministry of Environment of Albania. 2006 - Albania World Bank, GEF, MEFWA. Expert marine Integrated Water and Ecosystems Management Project. 2008 biologist. Preparation of training modules for the assessment of macrozoobenthos. 2005 - Albania European Union. Expert Life Program. StEMA Project. 2008 Project Management Ltd. hydrobiologist. Strengthening of Environmental Monitoring in Albania. Pilot study on macrozoobenthos of Ireland. Vjosa River. 2005 - Albania, European Union. Expert Program Interreg III. RiverNET project.

© European Union, 2002-2018 | europass.cedefop.europa.eu Page 10 / 13 Curriculum Vitae (2018) Sajmir Beqiraj 2008 Italy Univ. Lecce, Univ. Tirana. hydrobiologist. Rivers and citizens: functional restoration and sustainable development. 2007 Albania World Bank, Expert marine Saranda Gateway EIS and EIA project. COWI Denmark, Weissgerber biologist. Environmental Impact Study and Environmental Impact Assessment of the benthic habitats for & Partner, Germany. restoration of Saranda Harbor. 2007 Albania, Italy TAP ASSET S.p.A; Expert marine TAP project. ILF Consulting, Austria. biologist Characterization of biocenosis in the marine corridors and Environmental Impact Assessment for Trans Adriatic Pipeline Albania-Italy. 2006 - Albania, World Bank; GEF; Team leader LSIEMP Project. 2007 Montenegro APAWA. Preparation of the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) for Shkodra Lake. 2006 - Albania World Bank, GEF, Project Preparation of the National Action Plan for protection of cetaceans in Albania. 2007 MEFWA. coordinator; Expert marine biologist 2006 - Albania GEF/SGP, Adriatic Project Early actions to help build support for establishment of the marine sanctuary in Vlora Bay. 2007 Association; APAWA. coordinator; Expert marine biologist 2005 - Albania, Italy European Union. Project coordinator Program Interreg III. 2007 University of Lecce, Italy; for Albania; Capacity building on laboratorical analyses for the control and conservation of aquatic University of Tirana. Wetland and transitional ecosystems. benthos expert 2006 Albania World Bank. Expert marine ICZM project. biologist Environment Impact Assessment for the construction and operating of LNG plant and off-shore terminal in Semani coast. 2006 Albania World Bank. Expert marine ICZM project. biologist Environment Impact Assessment for the construction and operating of Petroleum Terminal in Porto Romano. 2006 Albania European Union. Expert Card Program. ELPA Project. Jacobs (UK); Louis Berger ltd hydrobiologist Study for Integrated Territorial Planning of Drini Bay, including Strategic Environmental (UK). Assessment. 2004 - Albania, Italy, European Union. Team leader for Program Interreg III. CADSES project. 2006 Greece, University of Lecce, Italy; Albania; Ecological assessment of transitional waters in Adriatic and Danube region. Romania, University of Tirana. Wetland and Bulgaria benthos expert. 2000 - Albania Ministry of Environment of Wetland and Monitoring of benthic fauna of the Albanian wetlands. 2006 Albania; University of Tirana. benthos expert. 2005 Albania REC, INCA. Wetland expert Shkodra Lake Project. Zoning and Ramsar claim of the area Shkodra Lake – River Buna – Velipoja coast. 2005 Albania UNDP, GEF, MEFWA, Team leader; MedWetCoast 3 project. APAWA. Wetland expert Preparation of the National Wetland Strategy. 2005 Albania OMV (Austria); Expert marine Environmental Impact Assessment for off-shore drilling in Lalzi Bay.

© European Union, 2002-2018 | europass.cedefop.europa.eu Page 11 / 13 Curriculum Vitae (2019) Sajmir Beqiraj RPS Hydrosearch (UK). biologist 2005 Albania UNEP-MAP, RAC/SPA; Team leader; Rapid Assessment Survey of the important habitats of marine turtles and Monk Seal in the GEF/SGP; MEDASSET; Expert marine coastal area of Albania. APAWA; MEFWA. biologist 2004 - Albania MEFWA; APAWA. Expert marine Inventory of coastal habitats and the seagrass meadows of Posidonia oceanica in Albania. 2005 biologist 2003 - Albania MEFWA, University of Tirana Expert marine Study of coastal and marine biodiversity of Lalzi Bay and Rodoni Bay (Adriatic Sea). 2005 biologist 2003 - Albania GEF/SGP; Albanian Biological Expert marine Preparation of the Red Book of the Albanian Fauna. 2004 Association. biologist 2003 Albania, EURONATUR Germany, Expert Rapid assessment of the ecological values of the River Bojana/Buna delta. Montenegro APAWA. hydrobiologist 2003 Albania, Italy CNR Italy; Academy of Wetland and Assessment of the environmental quality of coastal lagoons using a new biotic index. Sciences of Albania. benthos expert 2002 Albania World Bank; WRED. Expert marine Environmental and safety assessment in Port of Durres biologist 2001 Albania GEF/SGP; ECK. Expert Biodiversity conservation in the River Mati hydrobiologist 2000 - Albania GEF/SGP; APAWA. Project Protection of the natural values in the Lagoon of Patok and its watershed. 2002 coordinator; Wetland expert 2000 Albania GEF/SGP; Albanian Biological Wetland and Protection of natural values in the wetland area Vjosa River delta – Narta lagoon. Association. benthos expert 2000 - Albania, REC Hungary. Project Restoration of regional faunistic role of the transboundary River Buna /Bojana. 2001 Montenegro APAWA, EAK. coordinator; Expert hydrobiologist 2000 Albania, GEF/SGP; EAK. Expert Toward adaptation of a strategy for Shkodra Lake. Montenegro hydrobiologist 1999 - Albania, World Bank, GEF, MEFWA. Expert Lake Ohrid Conservation Project. 2002 Macedonia hydrobiologist Assessment of macrozoobenthos and ecological state in the Ohrid Lake. 1999 - Albania GEF/SGP; REC Albania. Team leader Methodical – technical qualification for protection of biodiversity. 2000 1996 Albania PPNEA Shkoder; REC Expert Assessment of natural values of the hydrographic network Shkodra Lake – Buna River - Drin Albania. hydrobiologist River – Velipoja coast.

HONORS / AWARDS / MEMBERSHIPS:

2005. Winner of the Young Investigator Award. 4-th European Congress of Malacological Societies. Naples, Italy.

2003 – to date. Representative of Albania in the Group of Experts of the European Council for the Conservation of Invertebrates. EC. Strasburg.

2004 – to date. Member of the Italian Malacological Society (SIM).

2008 – to date. Editorial Board Member of the “Transitional Waters Bulletin“. University of Salento, Italy, ISSN: 1825-229X.

2008 – to date. Member of the International Association of Biological Oceanography (IABO).

2011 – 2015. General Secretary of the EUROMEDLAG Federation (European and Mediterranean Federation on Coastal Lagoons).

2011 – to date. Member of the East and South European Network for Invasive Alien Species (ESENIAS).

2011 – to date. Member of the IUCN experts’ group on Invasive Alien Species.

2013 – to date. Member of the IUCN experts’ group on Protected Areas;

2013 – to date. Member of the International Scientific Committee of the Small Mediterranean Islands initiative (PIM). Conservatoire du Littoral. France.

2017 – to date. Representative of Albania in the European Network of Marine Research Institutes and Stations (MARS Network).