Case Summary:     

We are pleased to share the success story of an EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval granted to a Ph.D. student from Iran. The client’s research focuses on advancing targeted approaches in cancer treatment to improve patient outcomes while minimizing harmful side effects. At the time of filing, she was engaged in research in the United States and had already produced impactful work with publications, citations, and peer recognition that established her as a strong candidate for NIW approval.

Research with Substantial Merit and National Importance

The client’s proposed endeavor centers on combining molecular biology methods with innovative drug delivery systems to enhance immune recognition of cancer cells. Her work contributes to the development of next-generation immunotherapies that aim to deliver highly effective and less toxic treatment options.

This research is nationally important because cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with substantial public health and economic impacts. Her work aligns with major initiatives such as the Cancer Moonshot, which aims to reduce cancer mortality while improving the quality of life for patients. Furthermore, her focus on immunotherapy connects directly with national priorities in biotechnology, drug delivery, and precision medicine, fields recognized as critical and emerging technologies by the National Science and Technology Council.

Well Positioned to Advance the Proposed Endeavor

The client holds an advanced degree in medical immunology and has established a solid record of scholarship and innovation. She has authored 4 peer-reviewed journal articles, including first- and co-first-authored works, along with additional conference contributions. Her research has been cited 36 times by independent researchers across immunology, virology, and autoimmune disease studies, including papers that explored COVID-19 immune responses and therapies for inflammatory pathways.

Her publication record includes articles in respected journals such as Inflammopharmacology, Journal of Immunological Methods, and Protein Expression and Purification. One of her papers ranks among the top 20 percent of most cited works in immunology for its publication year, highlighting the influence of her findings.

Recognition from Field Experts

Independent experts provided strong endorsements of her work.

One recommender wrote:

“Her expertise in immune system analysis, cytokine pathway evaluation, and the development of precision medicine, along with her strong publication record, clearly establishes her as a leader in molecular biology and a valuable asset to the United States.”

Such endorsements reinforced both the originality and the practical value of her contributions.

NIW Approval and Outlook

The I-140 NIW petition was filed on March 4, 2025, and approved on September 3, 2025. USCIS recognized that her research addresses urgent national health priorities and that her record of accomplishment demonstrates she is well-positioned to advance this work.

With NAILG’s support, the client successfully secured NIW approval and can now continue her research in the United States. Her contributions to cancer immunotherapy are expected to accelerate the development of precision treatments, strengthen U.S. leadership in biotechnology, and deliver lasting benefits to public health.