Success Stories: Japanese Postdoctoral Research Fellow Secures NIW Approval for Research on Autism Spectrum Disorder

Client’s Testimonial:

“Thank you very much!! I’ve never expected that the processing would be so quick. I really appreciate your work and support.”

On September 15^th, 2025, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the field of Neuroscience (Approval Notice).

General Field: Neuroscience

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Country of Origin: Japan

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Illinois

Approval Notice Date: September 15^th, 2025

Processing Time: 5 days (Premium Processing Requested)

Case Summary:

We are pleased to share the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval of a postdoctoral research fellow from Japan. At the time of filing, he was conducting research in the United States on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). His work investigates empathy-related neural impairments and offers insights that can guide the development of targeted therapies. With a strong record of publications, citations, and professional recognition, he presented a compelling case for NIW approval.

Research with Substantial Merit and National Importance

The client’s proposed endeavor focuses on uncovering the neural mechanisms behind ASD by studying social cognition and empathy-related deficits. His findings, which identify key circuits and pathways, have applications in developing diagnostic tools and therapies. This research is nationally important, as ASD affects millions of Americans and imposes substantial healthcare and social costs.

Well Positioned to Advance the Proposed Endeavor

The client holds a Ph.D. in medicine and has authored 7 peer-reviewed journal articles, 8 first-authored abstracts, 1 preprint, and 1 technical report. His work has been cited more than 340 times, with two papers ranked among the most highly cited in neuroscience for their publication years. His studies, published in journals such as Science and Journal of Neuroscience, have influenced research on synapse function, anxiety behavior, and epilepsy models. He also developed a cost-effective automated conditioning device that enhances animal model testing, underscoring the practical impact of his research.

Recognition from Field Experts

Independent recommenders highlighted both the originality and practical relevance of his work.

One expert observed:

“In conclusion, [client] illustrates successful and efficient frameworks for assessing neurological functions and related pathologies. This enables more effective methods to diagnose and treat these diseases, supporting improved patient outcomes and quality of life.”

This endorsement affirms that his contributions are shaping neuroscience research while providing tangible benefits for clinical practice.

NIW Approval and Outlook

The I-140 NIW petition was filed with premium processing on September 10, 2025, and approved on September 15, 2025. USCIS recognized his scholarly output, citation record, and the national importance of his work as sufficient to satisfy the NIW criteria.
With NAILG’s support, the client secured NIW approval and is now positioned to continue his neuroscience research in the United States. His work promises to advance understanding and treatment of autism, supporting both public health and U.S. leadership in biomedical science.

North America Immigration Law Group (Chen Immigration Law Associates) is a U.S. immigration law firm dedicated to representing corporations, research institutions, and individuals from all 50 U.S. states regarding I-140 immigration petitions. We specialize in employment-based immigration petition and have a proven record of high success rate for the categories of: EB2-NIW (National Interest Waiver), EB1-A (Alien of Extraordinary Ability), EB1-B (Outstanding Researcher/Professor) and O-1 (Alien of Extraordinary Ability).

Our Ten Thousand I-140 Approvals Provide Unprecedented Insight into the USCIS Adjudication Trend

With more than 58,000 EB-1A, EB-1B, EB-2 NIW and O-1 cases approved, we have first hand information on the manner in which the USCIS adjudicate I-140 cases. As the USCIS has constantly changed its adjudication standards for the EB-1A, EB-1B and EB-2 NIW categories, our firm's huge database of successful cases gives you unprecedented insight to USCIS adjudication trends. We carefully analyze the data for all of our cases and apply the results of our analyses toward giving our clients up-to-date advice and adapting our strategies such that we remain on par with the ever-shifting landscape of immigration law in the U.S. With us, you will always have access to important updates, strategies, and information so that you can make the most informed decisions about your case.

We Have Helped Hundreds and Thousands of Clients with Credentials and Backgrounds Similar to Yours

With our exceedingly large number of successful petitions, no matter what credentials you have, no matter your background and field of expertise, no matter your visa status or nationality, chances are we have helped hundreds or even thousands of clients just like you. Our clients are usually impressed with how well we understand their research and work. Our insight and understanding stems from the fact that we have handled many cases with elements similar to yours already, and this helps us devise the best strategies for each individual petition.

Vast Majority of Clients Came to Us Because of Referrals

For years, our firm has attracted new clients based solely on word of mouth, recommendations, and the positive collaboration experiences shared with them by their friends and family. We take pride in our reputation and work hard to ensure that we provide a green card application experience that our clients are happy to share with their friends and colleagues. That is how our cumulative total of approved cases grew from 600 in 2013 to over 58,000 in 2025.