Case Summary:

Our client, a postdoctoral scholar researching the development of high-efficiency, low-cost, and ultra-lightweight photovoltaic solar cells, seemed relevant to the development of next-generation solar energy technologies. When he contacted our law firm, we observed that his academic and professional accomplishments met the factors required to obtain a green card in the NIW category.

Firstly, we discussed how our client’s research is essential for continuing the growth of solar energy installation around the world, which reduces reliance on finite, polluting fossil fuel resources. Also, we made sure that our client’s research work is nationally important by demonstrating a track record of his achievements in the field, which is directly aligned with the established national efforts and interests. As such, he represents a considerable asset to the United States.

Secondly, we noted that the second factor is to consider whether the petitioner is well-positioned to advance the proposed endeavor as per the “Matter of Dhanasar”. This multifactorial assessment includes an evaluation of the petitioner’s education, skills, knowledge, and record of success in related efforts; a model or plan for future activities; any progress made toward achieving the proposed endeavor. Evidently from our client’s M.Sc. degree in physics to his remarkable publication record i.e., the 10 peer-reviewed journal articles (3 of them first-authored), 10 peer-reviewed conference papers (4 of them first-authored), and 1 published patent application in 5 highly ranked journals, gathering 169 citations altogether from several other experts in the field of materials science confirmed that our client is very knowledgeable in the field and eligible to satisfy this prong.

In addition to his noteworthy knowledge and expertise in solar energy, optoelectronics, and 2D materials, he has also been invited to conduct peer review for an elite journal in the field, completing at least one peer review to date, thereby demonstrating his strong record of success for a researcher in materials science and his ability to continue pursuing his proposed research.

The evidence North America Immigration Law Group submitted on the client’s behalf also consisted of his CV, copies of diploma and transcripts, his signed statement confirming his proposed initiative, the employment letter confirming his current position and indicating his advisor’s intent to hire him following the completion of his Ph.D., and four letters of recommendation signed by his fellow researchers in the field. One of the letters had the following excerpt in it:

“Immersed in research at the interface of materials science, applied physics, and electrical engineering, [client] has made critical contributions towards more efficient solar cells that are both inexpensive and ultra-lightweight. Not only does his work enable the United States to meet growing energy needs, but it is directly contributing to greater energy affordability by helping to bring solar power into a similar price range as traditional energy sources.”

After considering the aforementioned details, USCIS was convinced that our client’s ability to conduct such innovative work is proof that he is a researcher of exceptional capability who is guaranteed to continue providing breakthroughs in materials science research, and USCIS approved his NIW petitions. We thank our client for his cordial support throughout the adjudication process and for letting us be a part of this fantastical expedition with him.