Published AAO appeal decisions

A postdoctoral researcher in applied mathematics sought NIW for research on mathematical models for ecology and conservation. The AAO remanded because SCOPS failed to provide detailed analysis of national importance, the petitioner's qualifications, and the balance of waiver factors under Dhanasar.

A computer scientist filed successive motions to reopen and reconsider an EB-2 national interest waiver denial. The AAO dismissed the second motion, finding no new facts or legal errors; the petitioner confused prospective impact with past achievement and restated previously considered evidence without demonstrating that the proposed endeavor had national importance.

Postdoctoral researcher in wireless communications and networking seeking EB-2 NIW. SCOPS denied; first appeal found substantial merit and positioning but denied waiver on balancing prong. Motion to reconsider granted after AAO recognized Ph.D. in STEM field working on critical emerging technology as strong positive factor for national benefit under revised Dhanasar analysis.