EB-2 NIWData science and analyticsEmployerDecided January 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
JAN222026_04B5203
Merit and national importanceNot metWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Senior manager of data science with Ph.D. in biostatistics sought EB-2 NIW to develop multivariate temporal models using AI for gene regulatory networks and socioeconomic systems. AAO found proposed research has national importance but petitioner's employment role only benefits employer, not the nation; petitioner not well positioned to advance endeavor.
Official PDF
Official PDF ↗Published by USCIS. The summary is ours, in our own words; the decision text is on uscis.gov.
No criterion in the table was found met in this decision.
What was missing
- Merit and national importance · Proposed AI research has substantial merit and national importance in general research, but employment as senior manager only benefits employer, not national interest
- Well positioned · Petitioner lacks evidence of education, skills, plan, progress, or interest from customers or investors to advance proposed endeavor
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Not met | Proposed AI research has substantial merit and national importance in general research, but employment as senior manager only benefits employer, not national interest |
 Well positioned | Not met | Petitioner lacks evidence of education, skills, plan, progress, or interest from customers or investors to advance proposed endeavor |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Not reached because petitioner failed second prong; AAO reserved this issue |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.