Success Story: Materials and Data Science Expert Secures EB-2 NIW Approval for AI-Driven Clean Energy Research
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On February 27th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Research Assistant/PhD Candidate in the Field of Materials Science and Data Science (Approval Notice).
General Field: Materials Science and Data Science
Position at the Time of Case Filing: Research Assistant/PhD Candidate
Country of Origin: Taiwan
State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Illinois
Approval Notice Date: February 27th, 2026
Processing Time: 24 months, 22 days
Case Summary:
Equipped with both an M.S. and a B.S. in nuclear engineering and science, our client focuses his research on a highly critical area: developing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models to understand complex material behaviors. By utilizing these advanced computational tools, his proposed endeavor accelerates discoveries essential to the clean energy transition, specifically impacting the performance and efficiency of solar energy storage systems, semiconductors, and molten salt reactors.
Unprecedented Federal Support
A major component of our legal argument rested on demonstrating the profound national importance of the petitioner's work. His research has been directly supported by some of the nation's most prestigious organizations, including the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Nuclear Energy, the Joint Center for Energy Storage Research (JCESR), and the National Science Foundation (NSF). This elite level of federal backing underscores the crucial nature of his methodologies in advancing U.S. interests in renewable energy capabilities and nuclear energy systems.
Evidence of Excellence
To fulfill the rigorous requirements of the Dhanasar framework, North America Immigration Law Group (Chen Immigration Law Associates) meticulously outlined the petitioner’s objective achievements. We highlighted his specialized scholarly output, which includes 7 peer-reviewed journal articles, as well as 1 peer-reviewed conference paper.
Furthermore, the global scientific community's reliance on his findings is demonstrated by his 70 citations. His standing in the field is also evidenced by his selection to evaluate the work of his peers, having completed a peer review for a relevant publication.
Strategic Legal Approach
By expertly framing his unique academic background, specialized AI/ML skill set, and robust record of federal funding, NAILG successfully demonstrated that the petitioner’s continued work in the United States offers substantial prospective benefits. This approval secures the retention of a vital asset in the nation's push for sustainable, technology-driven energy solutions.

