Research and Policy Director​

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Ilona Cenolli is the Institute’s founder and Research and Policy Director, with over 12 years of combined interdisciplinary research experience and a proven track record of policy leadership in Albania, the UK, and the US. Her work spans bioethics, health policy, regulation, and social justice, linking global insights with local impact.

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She began her career in migration and social policy research, before transitioning to the health sector in 2020. Since then, she has led high-profile projects in bioethics and health governance, with a focus on the ethical, legal, and social implications of emerging technologies, genomic data use, reproductive innovation, and post-trial justice. Her portfolio includes roles with institutions such as Harvard Medical School, the General Medical Council, and the Nuffield Council on Bioethics, where she has authored peer-reviewed articles and policy strategies on neurotechnology, embryo research, and e-pharmacies. She holds a Master of Bioethics from Harvard Medical School, and a First-Class Honours degree in Politics and International Relations from Queen Mary University of London, with advanced training in health law, genomics, clinical ethics, and public policy.

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Her leadership at the Institute bridges research with real-world policy development, ensuring that every project is rooted in ethical integrity, public accountability, and a bold vision for Albania’s role in global bioethics discourse.

Public Relations & Communications Director​

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Bora Osmani leads the Institute’s public voice, shaping how we engage with communities, institutions, and the wider public around questions of ethics, health, and policy. With a background in psychology and child development, her approach to communication is rooted in empathy, precision, and accessibility.

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She holds a Master of Science in Child Development from University College London (UCL) and a First Class Honours degree in Psychology from the University of Roehampton. Her academic work has explored social identity, development, and the role of values in personal decision-making, which are perspectives that continue to inform her communication ethos today.

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She has worked with children and families in both Albania and the UK, supporting vulnerable groups through therapeutic care, education, and mental health services. Her role in the pharmaceutical sector further strengthened her understanding of the communication challenges within healthcare systems.

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This unique blend of experience across care, health, and public engagement makes her well-positioned to translate complex bioethical issues into clear, relatable narratives that foster transparency, trust, and social understanding.

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External Affairs Director​

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Erta Koxhaj brings a diplomatic, strategic, and globally informed perspective to the Institute’s external relations. With a BA (Hons) in Politics and International Relations and a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) from the University of Law, she combines deep policy literacy with legal insight, making her a vital bridge between the Institute and its institutional, governmental, and international partners.

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She has held roles in the finance and sales sectors in the UK, where she developed strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills in fast-paced environments. These experiences inform her ability to navigate complex institutional landscapes and advocate effectively for ethical leadership in health systems.

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Her passion for bioethics stems from a commitment to justice, public accountability, and responsible policy-making. She believes that ethical reflection is essential to building fair and resilient healthcare systems. These are values that she upholds in every strategic partnership and public dialogue she leads on behalf of the Institute.