Success Story: With Our Guidance, A Graduate Research Assistant Successfully Secures NIW Approval
Client’s Testimonial:
“Thank you very much for your service, and I am glad that my I-140 was finally approved all these years.”
On October 27th, 2025, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Graduate Research Assistant in the Field of Biomedical Science (Approval Notice).
General Field: Biomedical Science
Position at the Time of Case Filing: Graduate Research Assistant
Country of Origin: South Korea
State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Texas
Approval Notice Date: October 27th, 2025
Processing Time: 21 months, 3 days
Case Summary:
We are excited to share the success story of a biomedical scientist whose I-140 NIW (National Interest Waiver) petition was successfully approved. This achievement underscores the national value of advancing cancer research and the importance of supporting scientists who are driving innovation in disease prevention and treatment.
The client holds an M.S. in stem cell biology and is currently conducting research in biomedical science. The proposed endeavor focuses on characterizing the molecular mechanisms underlying human disease, particularly cancer recurrence, in order to accelerate the development of clinical tools and new therapeutic strategies. This work directly supports critical national priorities in improving cancer survival outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and strengthening U.S. leadership in biotechnology and precision medicine.
Filed under the EB-2 NIW category, the petition highlighted:
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5 peer-reviewed journal articles
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2 first-authored conference abstracts and 1 first-authored preprint
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A total of 76 citations from other researchers worldwide
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Research funded by major U.S. biomedical research agencies and organizations (ACS, LLS, NIH, AHA, BCRF, V Foundation for Cancer Research)
The client’s research has already been applied in studies related to leukemia relapse, breast cancer therapy, and cardiac cell transplantation—demonstrating both clinical relevance and widespread influence within the scientific community. One project, for example, identified key leukemia stem cell properties linked to cancer recurrence and treatment resistance, offering promising opportunities for next-generation targeted therapies.
To further strengthen the case, two letters of recommendation from respected experts in biomedical research were submitted. These letters attested to the originality and real-world value of the client’s work, and emphasized the strong potential for ongoing contributions that benefit the United States.
“It is certainly within the best interests of the United States to continue to support and facilitate his endeavors.”
With a clear demonstration of national importance, a strong record of independent scientific influence, and the support of significant research funders, the petition successfully showed that waiving the labor certification requirement is in the best interest of the United States.
NAILG is honored to have assisted this talented scientist in securing approval and looks forward to seeing continued advancements in life-saving cancer research that will benefit both patients and the broader healthcare system.