Alesia Makaj
Alesia Makaj is a researcher and PhD candidate in Economics whose work lies at the intersection of energy policy, geopolitics, and sustainable economic development. Her research examines how geopolitical uncertainty influences energy security, renewable energy deployment, technological innovation, and long-term economic resilience.
Drawing on experience in research, market intelligence, and green finance, she brings an interdisciplinary perspective to contemporary policy challenges. Her work combines quantitative analysis with applied policy research, aiming to bridge academic evidence and real-world decision-making.
Alesia has published and presented research on energy transition, artificial intelligence, innovation policy, and labour market dynamics. She is particularly interested in developing evidence-based solutions that support resilient economies, accelerate sustainable energy transitions, and strengthen public policy in Europe and beyond.
Alesia Makaj Research Fellow · PhD Candidate in Economics
EXPERIENCE Research Fellow | Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Feb 2026 – Present
- Researching sustainable energy transition; analysing geopolitical risks and their impact on investment and energy security. Market Researcher | Balfin Real Estate (promoted to senior level) Dec 2023 – Jan 2026
- Conducted in-depth market research; analysed trends, competitor activities, and customer preferences to identify growth opportunities.
- Prepared research reports and presentations for managers, directors, CEOs, and the President. Young Researcher | Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) May 2025 – Nov 2025
- Co-authored a policy paper on youth unemployment in WB6 (supported by the Austrian Federal Ministry for European & International Affairs). Operations Manager | AUTO1 Group Jun 2022 – Nov 2023
- Managed B2B after-sales operations; collaborated with international teams; analysed and presented KPI performance. Green Finance & Environment Specialist | ProCredit Bank Apr 2021 – Jun 2022
- Conducted environmental research, green finance analysis, and technical impact analysis on electric vehicles, efficient housing and photovoltaics.
EDUCATION PhD Candidate in Economics, University of Tirana 2025 – 2028 MSc Economics – GPA 9.5/10 (KAS Alumni) University of Tirana 2018 – 2020 MSc Economics & European Studies (exchange student) University of Latvia 2020 BA Economics – GPA 9.1/10 University of Tirana 2015 – 2018
- Energy
- Geopolitical Risk
- Economic Security
- Sustainable Development
- Innovation and Artificial Intelligence
Selected Publications prior to joining the RIFS
Makaj A., 2022, “Common Agricultural Policy: Expectations about Reform and the European Green Deal”, Eurospeak Online Journal
Makaj A, Husic A, Milojevic A, Hasanaj E, Vickovic F, Antovska Z, 2025, “From Misalignment to Regional Coordination: Aligning Youth Guarantee Implementation in the Western Balkans”, RYCO, Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs
Makaj A., 2025, “Geopolitical Uncertainties and Energy Transition focused in Europe: Implications for Renewable Deployment, Critical Materials, and Economic Stability”, The Albanian Journal of Economy & Business
Makaj A., Hodaj F., 2025, “How Geopolitics is Shaping Technology and Innovation: EU Chips Act-Case Analysis”, International Conference on Economy, Business, Innovation and Technology, ICEBIT
Makaj A., Huta A., 2026, “Energy Infrastructure and AI-Driven Growth in the European Economy”, Eastern European Conference of Management and Economics, Ljubljana School of Business
Distinguished Academic Achievement Award – University of Tirana, Bachelor’s and Master’s Studies