Success Story: NIW Approved Despite RFE! We Helped a Ghanaian Graduate Research Assistant Secure Success

 

Client’s Testimonial:

“My overall experience with Chen’s Immigration Attorney has been good. The web portal is super helpful, and the assigned attorney answered my questions very well and on time. The assigned attorney worked closely with me throughout the entire process to make my application a success. I am immensely grateful to the Chen Immigration Team for the professional and exceptional work. Thank you!”


On April 5th, 2025, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Graduate Research Assistant in the Field of Public Health (Approval Notice).


General Field: Public Health

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Graduate Research Assistant

Country of Origin: Ghana

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Connecticut

Approval Notice Date: April 5th, 2025

Processing Time: 1 year, 8 days (Premium Processing Requested)


Case Summary:      

We are pleased to share the I-140 NIW approval of a public health researcher from Ghana whose impactful work is advancing the fight against obesity-related diseases through the development of digital behavioral interventions. His research leverages experimental study designs to build more effective tools for weight loss, to reduce risks associated with cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes conditions that continue to challenge public health systems across the United States.

Currently engaged in research at a U.S. academic institution, the client is developing tailored digital weight loss programs. His work contributes directly to national public health objectives.

To support his petition under the National Interest Waiver (NIW) category, we highlighted:

  • 13 peer-reviewed journal articles and 11 abstracts, including publications in high-impact journals;
  • 71 citations, with 2 papers ranked among the top 10–20% most cited in Social Sciences, General;
  • 23 completed peer reviews for respected public health and behavioral science journals.
His research is widely cited and has influenced international studies on digital health messaging, Facebook-delivered weight loss programs, and public health strategies in malaria prevention. Notably, his published work has served as a foundation for studies addressing social media-based interventions and community-based healthcare access.

Despite receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE), his strong record of innovation, peer recognition, and national relevance led to a successful petition outcome after 12 months and 8 days. We are proud to have supported this case and look forward to his continued contributions to digital health, behavior change science, and chronic disease prevention.