Success Stories: Engineering Safer Cities: EB-2 NIW Approved for Structural Engineer Advancing Seismic Resilience in Low-Cost Housing

Case Summary:           

We proudly announce the EB-2 NIW approval of a structural engineering expert from Iran, whose pioneering work in modular and prefabricated retrofitting technologies is transforming earthquake safety for vulnerable communities. This client’s petition was approved under premium processing, affirming the national importance of their innovative contributions to infrastructure resilience.

Designing the Future of Seismic Safety

The client’s proposed endeavor focuses on the development of cost-effective, rapid, and scalable seismic retrofitting solutions tailored to low-cost housing. Leveraging modular and prefabricated construction techniques, their research aims to reduce the devastation caused by earthquakes, both in terms of human life and economic impact.

With an advanced degree in civil and structural engineering and ongoing engagement with leading engineering bodies, the client has led efforts to design new retrofitting systems that are both technically sound and easy to implement, especially in high-risk regions across the United States.

A Strong Foundation of Research and Recognition

This structural engineer has authored 9 peer-reviewed journal articles, 2 books, and 3 patents, with more than 124 citations across their body of work. Notably, five of these articles rank among the top 1% most cited in the field of Engineering for their year of publication. Key areas of contribution include:

• Seismic retrofitting of reinforced concrete and steel structures
• Hybrid damping systems combining base isolators with liquid dampers
• Infrastructure optimization in earthquake-prone urban regions
• Spatial and material planning for disaster-resilient communities

The client’s publication in the European Online Journal of Natural and Social Sciences on retrofitting sidewalks and footpaths has been cited 21 times—a remarkable figure placing it in the top 1% of engineering publications in its year.

Endorsed by Global Authorities

Leading academics and engineers have confirmed the value of this work. One recommender, a civil engineering professor and seismic control specialist in Iran, praised the impact of the client’s hybrid retrofitting solutions:

“By integrating liquid sloshing dampers and base isolators, he has created a decoupling system that vastly improves structural resilience and is scalable for widespread use. His low-cost innovations ensure that safer infrastructure is available to underserved populations.”

Another letter noted that the client’s carbon fiber retrofitting methods and liquid damper designs are already influencing U.S. engineering practice and providing accessible alternatives to complex, high-cost solutions.

Broad Scientific and Societal Impact

The client’s research is not only original but also widely influential. Studies from international teams have applied his models to improve:

• Urban transportation resilience during pandemics
• Structural performance under hydrostatic and seismic loads
• Energy-efficient spatial designs in housing

His methods have also been cited in sustainability research, disaster mitigation, and urban planning, further highlighting the cross-disciplinary impact of his innovations.

Supporting Critical U.S. Infrastructure Goals

Earthquakes cost the U.S. economy an estimated $14.7 billion annually, with 75% of the country at risk of significant seismic events. By focusing on low-cost housing—a sector with historic underinvestment—the client’s work delivers high-return solutions in public safety, economic resilience, and national infrastructure preparedness.

These goals align closely with Critical and Emerging Technologies (CET) outlined by the National Science and Technology Council, particularly in advanced simulation, smart building design, and resilient civil infrastructure.

With a career defined by technical excellence, practical innovation, and societal impact, this engineer’s EB-2 NIW approval is not only well deserved but also urgently aligned with U.S. national interests. We truly celebrate this success and remain honored to support professionals who advance critical engineering solutions for safer, more resilient communities.