Success Stories: EB2-NIW Success Despite RFE: Ethiopian Medical Laboratory Scientist in Biomedical Sciences
Client’s Testimonial:
“Thank you for your commitment and dedication from the start to the end of the approval of the case. The attorney who helped me in preparing the RFE response is highly professional and experienced.”
On July 9th, 2025, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Medical Laboratory Scientist in the Field of Biomedical Sciences (Approval Notice).
General Field: Biomedical Sciences
Position at the Time of Case Filing: Medical Laboratory Scientist
Country of Origin: Ethiopia
State of Residence at the time of filing: Maryland
Approval Notice Date: July 9th, 2025
Processing Time: 1 year, 1 month, and 16 days
Case Summary:
At North America Immigration Law Group (NAILG), we recently had the privilege of assisting a medical laboratory scientist from Ethiopia, specializing in biomedical sciences, with his I-140 EB2-NIW (National Interest Waiver) petition. NAILG’s thorough evaluation confirmed the client as a strong candidate for the EB2-NIW petition, based on his significant educational background, professional expertise, and impactful research contributions. The petition was successfully approved despite receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE) during the adjudication process.
Innovative Research Driving Critical Health Advances
Our client’s research focuses on the development and validation of diagnostic assays to accurately identify infectious pathogens. These assays are designed for diverse critical applications, including point-of-care testing in clinical settings, supporting surveillance efforts during disease outbreaks, and facilitating clinical vaccine and drug trials. By improving the speed and accuracy of pathogen detection, his work enhances disease management and containment strategies, thereby playing a vital role in protecting public health. This research not only advances diagnostic capabilities but also directly addresses urgent healthcare challenges faced by the United States and the global community.
Notable Achievements Underscoring Research Impact
Our client’s impactful accomplishments were highlighted in the petition, including:
● An exceptional publication record of 7 peer-reviewed journal articles (2 first-authored), 1 conference abstract (first-authored), and 1 preprint.
● A total of 195 citations, reflecting substantial recognition and influence within the biomedical sciences field.
● Completed at least 2 peer reviews for reputable journals, including the Journal of the São Paulo Institute of Medicine and Malaria Journal.
● At least 5 papers ranking among the most highly cited in the Clinical Medicine field for their publication years.
● Secured research grants from international organizations.
Expert Endorsements Confirm National SignificanceThe petition included two strong recommendation letters that emphasize the novelty, impact, and national importance of the client’s work. These letters reinforce the merit of the EB2-NIW petition and highlight the client’s significant contributions to biomedical sciences. A highlight from the recommendation letters reads:
“As a highly prominent researcher in biomedical sciences, [client] has transformed molecular diagnostics research. When this is taken into consideration with his extensive publication in world-renowned journals, [client’s] work is of great value to the field and that he is an irreplaceable presence in the research sphere.”
NAILG’s Strategic Response to RFE and Successful OutcomeDespite the RFE issued during adjudication, NAILG’s detailed and effective response reinforced the strength of the client’s qualifications and the national significance of his research. This was pivotal in achieving USCIS approval of the petition.
NAILG’s Expert Preparation Secures Approval
The approval of our client’s I-140 EB2-NIW petition in exactly 1 year, 1 month, and 16 days reflects his outstanding qualifications and the vital importance of his work to U.S. healthcare. Despite the RFE, NAILG’s meticulous preparation and strategic response ensured the successful outcome.
We congratulate our client on this achievement and look forward to supporting his continued advancements in infectious disease diagnostics and public health.

