Postdoctoral fellow in biomedical research sought EB-2 NIW with advanced degree. Proposed cancer research endeavor met substantial merit and national importance, but AAO found petitioner not well positioned to advance it: lacking significant funded grant record, evidence of work adoption by others, or comprehensive future plan despite strong academic credentials.

Senior research associate with advanced degree in medical data statistics sought NIW for EB-2. AAO dismissed appeal, finding proposed research had national importance but petitioner failed to demonstrate being well positioned to advance it despite citations and peer review work.

A physician-researcher pursuing a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences seeks NIW for research on breast cancer biomarkers and early detection. The petitioner claimed three Dhanasar prongs. The AAO sustained the appeal, finding the proposed research has substantial merit and national importance, the petitioner is well-positioned to advance it given his medical degree and publication record, and waiving job offer requirements would benefit the United States.

A physical therapist with advanced degree sought EB-2 NIW to establish a home health care company in Florida. The AAO dismissed because the proposed endeavor lacked national importance despite industry labor shortage; mere field shortages cannot establish national significance.