EB-2 NIWMechanical and aerospace engineeringIndividualDecided 2020Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
JUL242020_01B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Mechanical engineering researcher with Ph.D. sought EB-2 national interest waiver for nanoparticle research. First prong met on research merit and national importance. AAO dismissed, finding petitioner failed second prong: insufficient evidence of independent funding acquisition, citation impact, or demonstrated leadership capacity relative to advisors and coauthors.
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 · Petitioner established nanoparticle research has substantial merit and national importance.
What was missing
- Well positioned · Despite Ph.D., publications, and citations, record did not show petitioner primarily responsible for securing funding or demonstrated significant influence in field.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | Petitioner established nanoparticle research has substantial merit and national importance. |
 Well positioned | Not met | Despite Ph.D., publications, and citations, record did not show petitioner primarily responsible for securing funding or demonstrated significant influence in field. |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Not reached because petitioner failed second prong; third prong balancing not addressed. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.