A machine learning scientist with a U.S. PhD in computational biosciences sought EB-2 NIW classification for developing bioinformatics algorithms and predictive models for disease detection and precision medicine. The AAO affirmed denial, finding the endeavor had substantial merit but lacked national importance and the petitioner was not well positioned to advance it without demonstrating broader impact or employer approval for external research dissemination.

A tourism and hospitality manager sought EB-2 exceptional ability classification and national interest waiver. The AAO found his educational credentials insufficient for advanced degree professional status and he met only one exceptional ability criterion. The appeal was dismissed without reaching the Dhanasar framework.

A Ph.D. student in informatics sought NIW for EB-2 classification with advanced degree. The AAO dismissed appeal after finding the proposed AI research endeavor lacks national importance. Field importance and STEM or critical emerging technology status alone do not establish specific endeavor's national importance.

An assistant professor in classics sought a national interest waiver for EB-2 classification. The AAO held the proposed endeavor—study of ancient inscriptions, preservation of epigraphical resources, and classics teaching—has substantial merit but lacks the requisite national importance under Dhanasar's first prong, and did not address the remaining prongs.