Case Summary:       

We are pleased to share the successful EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a senior bioanalysis scientist from China working in the field of medical biology. The client approached North America Immigration Law Group (NAILG) with a strong background in multi-omics research and gastrointestinal disease pathology. Recognizing the impact of her work on healthcare solutions for chronic and debilitating conditions, our team developed a robust case highlighting her qualifications and national importance. Although the petition received a Request for Evidence (RFE) after premium processing, our team effectively addressed all concerns with compelling evidence and a well-documented response that ultimately led to approval.

Research with Substantial Merit and National Importance:
The client’s proposed endeavor centers on the use of multi-omics tools to better understand disease mechanisms, particularly for conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and gastrointestinal cancers. Her research has far-reaching implications for public health, with the potential to reduce chronic disease-related fatalities and ease the economic burden on the U.S. healthcare system. By aligning her work with federal priorities in precision medicine and health infrastructure, we were able to clearly demonstrate the national importance of her endeavor.

Well Positioned to Advance the Proposed Endeavor:
The client holds a Ph.D. in molecular and cellular biology and has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, including one first-authored paper that ranks among the top 20% most cited articles in its field for the year of publication. She has also contributed several first-authored abstracts and received 150 citations across her body of work. In our response to the RFE, we emphasized the continued relevance of her findings and how her research has been implemented and extended by others in the field.

Her work has been cited by high-impact studies addressing wound healing, epithelial barrier function, and stem cell research. For instance, one paper used her findings to support experiments validating molecular mechanisms in oncogenesis, directly reinforcing her leadership in the field of gastrointestinal health. In addition, she received an unsolicited invitation to present her research at a leading stem cell and regenerative medicine conference, demonstrating her recognition as an expert in the field.

Overcoming the RFE:
The RFE, issued on February 11, 2025, questioned the national importance of the client’s proposed endeavor and whether she was well-positioned to advance it. In response, our team provided detailed documentation of citation percentiles, summaries of how her research had been used by others, and updated letters attesting to her continued work in the field. We also referenced the inclusion of her research area in the National Science and Technology Council’s list of critical and emerging technologies, further affirming its relevance to U.S. national interest.

Final Result:
The client’s I-140 NIW petition, filed under premium processing on December 5, 2024, received approval on July 8, 2025. Despite receiving an RFE, the strength of the client’s background and the strategic, evidence-rich petition prepared by NAILG ensured a successful outcome. We are proud to have helped another talented researcher secure approval under the EB-2 NIW category and look forward to seeing the client’s continued contributions to biomedical science and public health.