Success Stories: Advancing Energy Security Through Innovation—NIW Approved for Petroleum Production Expert

Case Summary:           

We are pleased to share the success story of an EB-2 NIW approval. This approval was granted to a petroleum production specialist whose research is focused on optimizing carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas injection methods to reduce oil viscosity and improve oil recovery efficiency. At the time of filing, the client was employed in a research role applying advanced simulation and CO₂-based methods to support reservoir optimization and extended production performance.

Research with Substantial Merit and National Importance

The client’s research directly addresses national interests in energy security and economic sustainability by developing novel approaches for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). His investigations center on using CO₂ injection techniques to reduce oil viscosity and increase mobility in heavy oil reservoirs, a challenge critical to extending the life of existing reserves and maintaining global production leadership.

With the global EOR market projected to double in the coming decade, this research holds strategic value for both industrial applications and national competitiveness. The client’s work is especially relevant to maintaining the U.S.’s position as a global leader in oil production, an industry valued at over $250 billion, by improving extraction efficiency and reservoir performance.

Well-Positioned to Advance U.S. Energy Solutions

The client brings strong academic credentials and decades of applied experience in oil recovery, CO₂ capture and storage, and reservoir simulation. His academic training includes an advanced engineering degree in earth resources, supported by numerous industry and academic appointments in both energy and environmental sectors.

In his NIW petition, we demonstrated that he is well-positioned to advance this endeavor through:

• A well-documented record of practical and scholarly achievement;
• Clear future research plans in CO₂-based oil recovery optimization;
• Contributions that span simulation modeling, diffusion process analysis, and real-world reservoir performance.

Recognized Research Contributions

The client has authored 20 peer-reviewed journal articles and 27 peer-reviewed conference papers, with 176 citations across these works. His studies have appeared in top-ranked engineering journals, reflecting high peer recognition and the technical rigor of his findings.

Two of his articles are ranked among the top 10% most cited engineering papers in their publication years, highlighting the originality and relevance of his work. Notably, his research on CO₂ foaming in heavy oil and diffusion-based viscosity reduction has been used by peers in academia, industry, and even in patented technologies aimed at improving oil extraction and alternative fuel systems.

NIW Approval and Outlook

The petition established that the client’s proposed work satisfies the criteria outlined in the Matter of Dhanasar decision. By demonstrating the substantial merit and national importance of his research, his strong positioning to advance the field, and the broader benefit of waiving the job offer requirement, the petition was approved in 1 month, 21 days with premium processing.

This case showcases the impactful work of researchers dedicated to building a more energy-secure future. At NAILG, we are proud to support scientists and engineers like this client whose innovations drive real-world solutions in critical industries.