A software engineer and researcher sought an EB-2 national interest waiver to continue research on molecular materials for water treatment and clean energy storage. The AAO accepted the endeavor's merit and national importance but dismissed the appeal, finding he was not well positioned to advance it despite his doctorate and publications.

Senior engineering program manager with advanced degree seeks NIW for research on electromechanical systems including motor design, hybrid vehicle powertrains, and aerospace monitoring. SCOPS approved advanced degree qualification and substantial merit but denied national importance. AAO upheld dismissal, finding insufficient evidence of broader field impact or economic effects rising to national importance.

A computer scientist proposed developing machine learning algorithms for precision medicine and drug discovery. Although the AAO found the endeavor had substantial merit and national importance, it affirmed the service center's finding that the petitioner failed to demonstrate she was well positioned to advance the research, lacking comparable evidence to established precedent.

PhD holder in AI and infrastructure management, founder of startup, sought EB-2 NIW. Proposed endeavor: lead AI and infrastructure research and consulting. USCIS found substantial merit but insufficient evidence of national importance. AAO affirmed: endeavor lacks specificity, funding details, and demonstrated broader impact; appeal dismissed.