Published AAO appeal decisions

Physicist sought EB-2 NIW for postdoctoral research and future academic positions in physics. AAO rejected SCOPS finding of national importance; petitioner's vague, undetermined research endeavor and few citations lack national or global implications in field. Appeal dismissed.

Optical science engineer with Ph.D. in applied physics sought EB-2 with national interest waiver for research on quantum materials and superconductors. AAO found research meets first prong but dismissed appeal because petitioner failed to establish being well-positioned to advance the endeavor as required by second prong.

Physicist sought EB-1A classification. Service center found two criteria met but rejected original contributions claim. AAO remanded because service center misapplied national interest waiver analytical framework to extraordinary ability petition and failed to adequately explain why supporting letters and evidence were insufficient for original contributions criterion.