approved EB-2 (NIW)

Graduate Research Assistant

Interdisciplinary Engineering · Mexico · 2022-04-20

Processing Time
137 days
Decision Date
2022-04-20
Location
Texas
This case is from a publicly available case study. Case studies tend to feature successful outcomes and may not reflect the full range of petition results.

Proposed Endeavor

The petitioner proposes to develop numerical simulations, machine learning models, and drilling automation technology for oil & gas, geothermal, and space exploration purposes. The work focuses on improving drilling techniques and creating autonomous systems to prevent energy extraction accidents and reduce human error.

Framework Evaluation

3 of 3 criteria met
1 Substantial Merit and National Importance Met

The endeavor has national importance as it reduces errors and accidents in oil drilling that lead to environmental harm and worker deaths.

2 Well-positioned to Advance the Endeavor Met

The petitioner is well-positioned due to his Ph.D., publication record, and history of receiving funding from major federal agencies like NASA and the DOE.

3 Waiver of Job Offer and Labor Certification Met

On balance, it is beneficial to the U.S. to waive the requirements because his research improves safety and prevents expenditures numbering in the billions.

Why This Petition Was Approved

The petition was approved based on the petitioner's Ph.D. and a record of 7 peer-reviewed publications with 22 citations. He also demonstrated significant professional standing through 8 peer-review assignments and research supported by 3 major federal grants from the DOE, NASA, and NSF. The case successfully satisfied all three Dhanasar prongs by highlighting the national importance of drilling safety.

Evidence

Evidence Types
Peer Reviewed Publications
Citations
Grants
Judging Experience
Original Contributions
Government Alignment

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Frequently Asked Questions

A approved EB-2 NIW (I-140) petition means USCIS determined the petitioner met the eligibility requirements. For appealed cases, "sustained" means the appeal reversed a prior denial. The petitioner can proceed to the next step in the immigration process.

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Case data sourced from publicly available petition decisions and case studies. Decision date: 2022-04-20.

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At a Glance

Outcome approved
Processing 137 days
Criteria Met 3 / 3
Evidence Types 6

EB-2 (NIW) Case Data

Scraped Case Data

Total Cases 3,895
Success Rate 54.2%
Sustained 2,112
Dismissed 1,687

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