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EB-2 NIWBiotech and pharmaEmployerDecided February 2026Dismissed

Outcome: Dismissed

FEB262026_01B5203

Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot reached / not discussedBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed

Our summary

Biotechnology researcher proposes developing genomic editing tools for disease modeling and gene therapy targeting neurodegenerative and autoimmune disorders. AAO found the endeavor has substantial merit but rejected it because the record fails to establish the proposed endeavor's prospective impact or national importance, relying instead on general industry importance.

Official PDF

Official PDF ↗

Published by USCIS. The summary is ours, in our own words; the decision text is on uscis.gov.

What the AAO accepted

  • Merit and national importance · AAO found proposed endeavor in genomic editing and gene therapy for disease treatment has substantial merit

What was missing

Every criterion in the table was found met.

Criteria

CriterionReadingWhy
Merit and national importanceMetAAO found proposed endeavor in genomic editing and gene therapy for disease treatment has substantial merit
Well positionedNot reached / not discussedNot reached because first prong failed on national importance; remaining prongs reserved
Balance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussedNot reached because first prong failed; balance analysis reserved

A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.

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