Applied and computational mathematician self-petitioned for EB-2 NIW to research guaranteed algorithms for large-scale systems, claiming prospective applications in cancer research, energy, and artificial intelligence. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding substantial merit but insufficient evidence of national importance because the connection between the proposed research and asserted national-level impacts was too attenuated.

A computer scientist with a Ph.D. in computer science seeks EB-2 with NIW. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding she misunderstood national importance requirements and failed to show her proposed endeavor would impact the field broadly. Routine or incremental contributions without broader implications do not satisfy the Dhanasar standard.

Senior hardware engineer seeking NIW for EB-2 classification. Proposed research in integrated circuit design. AAO affirmed denial because petitioner failed to establish national importance of proposed endeavor, showing only past research accomplishments without demonstrating broader prospective impact required by Dhanasar first prong.

Advanced materials engineering researcher seeking NIW for postdoctoral research in wastewater metal recovery and water remediation. Petitioner established field has substantial merit but failed to demonstrate national importance of specific proposed endeavor. Decision held mere employment in important STEM field insufficient without evidence of broader prospective impact.