Biochemistry researcher sought NIW for EB-2 classification for brain tumor research. Petitioner demonstrated substantial merit and national importance of proposed research, strong qualifications to advance it, and past successful contributions. AAO held all three Dhanasar prongs met and waiver merited.

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.

A postdoctoral biochemistry researcher sought an NIW under Dhanasar for developing novel disease treatment derivatives. The AAO sustained the appeal, finding all three Dhanasar prongs met: proposed research had substantial merit and national importance, petitioner was well positioned to advance it, and balance favored waiver of job offer requirement.

Ph.D. student in molecular biology proposes cancer research on environmental, molecular, and genetic disease mechanisms. AAO found proposed endeavor has substantial merit and national importance but dismissed appeal because petitioner insufficient evidence of prior success or progress to show capacity to advance the proposed research.