“Working with NAILG was a great experience! Lawyers assigned to my case were very thorough in drafting my petitions and reviewing evidence for submission with my petition. The case preparation system is very clear and organized, and although it takes a significant amount of time to complete all the requested information, they were very good at incorporating all the details into my petition. Lastly, my assigned lawyers answered my specific questions in detail, with patience, and provided all the information I needed to make decisions on petition submission timing and what evidence should be included to represent my case best. Thank you for a great experience during such a complicated process, NAILG!”

Case Summary:      

We are pleased to share the success story of an EB-2 NIW and EB-1A approval granted to an epidemiologist whose work focuses on HIV and pediatrics. At the time of filing, the client was advancing critical research on the relationship between diet, gut microbiome, and metabolic health, building a distinguished record of contributions that have had a tangible impact on public health outcomes in both pediatric and adult populations.

Research Focus and Contributions:
 The petition highlighted the client’s dedication to understanding how dietary factors influence gut microbial composition and, in turn, metabolic health. This work is vital in developing strategies to prevent and manage chronic conditions in vulnerable populations. Their ongoing studies contribute to evidence-based interventions that address critical public health concerns.
Key elements of their record included:

• Publications: 16 peer-reviewed journal articles (6 first-authored) and 9 abstracts (5 first-authored) in respected scientific outlets.
• Citations: 416 citations on Google Scholar, with their findings influencing peers across epidemiology, nutrition, microbiology, and pediatrics.
• Peer Reviews: At least 13 reviews conducted for scholarly journals, reflecting their recognized expertise.
• Funding: Research supported by prominent organizations, including the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, the U.S. Department of Defense, the LAM Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the MAYDAY Fund, and the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance Drug Discovery Program.

Evidence of Influence and Recognition:
 To demonstrate national and global significance, the petition incorporated evidence showing how the client’s work is cited by other researchers addressing similar challenges in infectious disease, pediatric health, and nutritional epidemiology. The funding history further underscored the trust placed in their work by competitive grant committees.

Support from Experts in the Field:
 The petition was strengthened by four letters of recommendation from leading professionals, including both independent experts and collaborators. These letters emphasized the unique role the client plays in advancing pediatric and HIV-related epidemiology, as well as the potential of their research to shape future clinical guidelines. One letter stated:

 “There is significant national importance in [Client’s] area of research, and it is clear that she should be strongly considered for retention in the United States.”

Well Positioned to Advance the Proposed Endeavor:
 We demonstrated that the client’s Ph.D. in epidemiology, combined with a consistent track record of high-impact publications, successful grant acquisition, and active peer-review service, uniquely positions them to continue producing research of substantial merit and national importance. Their future work will advance interventions that can improve health outcomes for children and adults facing complex metabolic and infectious disease challenges.

Approval and Outcome:
 Approved in March 2024 for the NIW and in August 2025 for the EB1A (following a successful RFE response), the petitions were granted in recognition of the client’s demonstrated impact and clear potential to continue benefiting the United States. NAILG is proud to have represented this client and looks forward to seeing the continuing positive influence of their work in epidemiology and public health.