Success Stories: Dual Triumph in Cell Biology: Research Associate Secures EB‑1A and NIW Approvals
Client’s Testimonial:
“Your service is sincerely appreciated!”
On January 27th, 2025, and February 4th, 2025, we received another EB‑2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) and EB‑1A (Alien of Extraordinary Ability) approval, respectively, for a Research Associate in the field of Cell Biology (Approval Notice).
General Field: Cell Biology
Position at the Time of Case Filing: Research Associate
Country of Origin: China
State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Texas
Approval Notice Date: January 17th, 2025 (NIW) & February 4th, 2025 (EB1A)
Processing Time: 1 year, 2 months, 25 days (NIW); 1 year, 1 month, 6 days (EB‑1A)
Case Summary:
In the pursuit of molecular insights that both illuminate viral pathogenesis and enable next‑generation antiviral therapies, a cell biology research associate has distinguished herself as a global leader in her field. With EB‑2 NIW and EB‑1A approvals now secured, her journey exemplifies scientific excellence, innovation, and dual recognition at the highest levels of U.S. immigration.
Specializing in cellular RNA processing, regulation, and RNA virus host interactions, this China‑born researcher has made pioneering contributions to understanding how SARS‑CoV‑2 proteins antagonize interferon signaling and disrupt mRNA export, as well as elucidating influenza A virus nuclear–cytoplasmic transport mechanisms. Her role as a research associate places her at the intersection of basic discovery and therapeutic application, where she combines biochemical assays, structural biology, and high‑throughput chemical screening to identify novel antiviral targets and compounds.
Her scientific impact is underscored by an exceptional record of 11 peer‑reviewed journal articles published in top‑tier venues (e.g., Protein & Cell, Nature Communications) and 929 citations, reflecting broad adoption of her methods across more than 50 countries. She has also conducted at least 14 invited peer reviews for leading journals, evidence of her authority as a judge of scientific work. Independent expert letters and an advisory opinion further corroborated her extraordinary influence, confirming that her insights have driven advances in antiviral screening, viral‑host mechanistic studies, and therapeutic development.
One independent recommender, a senior faculty member from a leading U.S. dental school, wrote:
“[Client’s] investigation into viral proteins and the subsequent discovery of a protein that inhibited host interferon responses. Using immunofluorescence, she demonstrated that this viral protein prevented STAT1 and STAT2 from entering the nucleus, thereby impairing interferon signaling. A protein–protein interaction assay further confirmed that the protein bound directly to a critical cellular transport complex, blocking nuclear transport of immune‑responsive factors.”
What made this case especially compelling was the consistency of impact across metricspublication and citation volume, peer‑review service, high‑impact funding endorsements, and expert testimonials, all converged to validate her significance. Both USCIS approvals reflect that rare dual recognition of her past achievements and her future value to the United States.
At NAILG, we are honored to have guided her through both the NIW and EB‑1A processes. From crafting a strategy, assembling the decisive evidence, and coordinating expert testimonials, our team worked hand‑in‑hand with the client at every step. We look forward to supporting her next chapter of discovery and are confident that her continued leadership will drive innovation in cell biology and global health.

