Postdoctoral fellow in biomedical research sought EB-2 NIW with advanced degree. Proposed cancer research endeavor met substantial merit and national importance, but AAO found petitioner not well positioned to advance it: lacking significant funded grant record, evidence of work adoption by others, or comprehensive future plan despite strong academic credentials.

Language testing researcher and machine learning engineer sought EB-2 with national interest waiver. AAO affirmed advanced degree eligibility but dismissed appeal, finding proposed endeavor lacked demonstrated national importance and petitioner not well-positioned to advance it under Dhanasar framework.

Financial and investment analyst seeking EB-2 NIW claimed expertise in financial consulting. AAO held petitioner met underlying EB-2 but failed first Dhanasar prong; proposed business providing budgeting and forecasting services lacks national importance and broader field implications required.

An optical imaging engineer self-petitioned for EB-2 NIW. The AAO affirmed that while the endeavor had substantial merit and national importance, the petitioner failed to establish he was well-positioned to advance it due to insufficient evidence of future plans, funding, or investor interest.