Chemical engineering graduate student seeks NIW for research designing materials for PFAS water purification. AAO found first prong met but rejected second prong, concluding citations and publications alone insufficient to show field influence and well-positioning.

An assistant professor in classics sought a national interest waiver for EB-2 classification. The AAO held the proposed endeavor—study of ancient inscriptions, preservation of epigraphical resources, and classics teaching—has substantial merit but lacks the requisite national importance under Dhanasar's first prong, and did not address the remaining prongs.

An investment advisor seeks EB-2 NIW as advanced degree professional with national interest waiver. SCOPS found her qualified for underlying EB-2 but denied waiver. AAO affirmed, finding her proposed endeavor lacks national importance because working as investment trust manager would not impact her field broadly or generate substantial positive economic effects.

Graduate student researcher in structural engineering sought EB-2 NIW for developing sustainable concrete materials and construction methods. AAO found proposed endeavor had substantial merit and national importance, but petitioner failed second prong by lacking documented plan, progress, and stakeholder interest to advance the endeavor.