Date of Decision: September 13, 2021
Service Center: Texas Service Center
Form Type: Form I-140
Case Type: EB1 Extraordinary Ability
Petitioner Information
Profession: Researcher and Professor
Field: Medical Science
Nationality: South Korean
Summary of Decision
Initial Decision: Denied
Appeal Outcome: Approved
Evidentiary Criteria Analysis
Criteria Met:
Judging the Work of Others: The petitioner has peer-reviewed manuscripts for professional journals such as Cell Chemical Biology and served as a thesis and dissertation committee member.
Authorship of Scholarly Articles: The petitioner has authored scholarly articles in prestigious publications including Cell and Science.
Published Materials About the Petitioner: The petitioner provided evidence of his work being recognized and cited in various media and scholarly articles.
Original Contributions of Major Significance: The petitioner’s research, particularly his work on the molecular mechanisms in cells, has been highly influential, with significant citations and recognition in the field.
Criteria Not Met:
Awards and Prizes: The petitioner did not provide evidence of receiving a major, internationally recognized award.
Membership in Associations: The petitioner did not submit evidence of membership in associations that require outstanding achievements.
Artistic Exhibitions or Showcases: Not applicable to the petitioner’s field.
Evidence of High Salary or Remuneration: No evidence provided regarding high salary or remuneration.
Commercial Successes in the Performing Arts: Not applicable to the petitioner’s field.
Key Points from the Decision
Awards and Prizes Won: None applicable.
Published Materials About the Petitioner:
The petitioner’s research has been featured in several media articles and scholarly publications. For example, Korean news agency Newsis reported on his discovery of a compound with potential therapeutic applications.
Original Contributions of Major Significance:
The petitioner’s research on molecular mechanisms has been groundbreaking. He discovered how certain proteins are activated, which has significant implications for understanding and treating various diseases. His findings have been highly cited, and he has received international patents for related technologies.
Participation as a Judge:
The petitioner has peer-reviewed manuscripts for journals such as Cell Chemical Biology and served on thesis and dissertation committees.
Membership in Associations: None applicable.
Authorship of Scholarly Articles:
The petitioner has authored numerous articles in distinguished journals, with a high rate of citation, indicating significant influence in his field.
Leading or Critical Role Performed: Not specifically highlighted.
Artistic Exhibitions or Showcases: Not applicable.
Evidence of High Salary or Remuneration: None provided.
Commercial Successes in the Performing Arts: Not applicable.
Supporting Documentation
Peer Review and Committee Work: Evidence of judging the work of others through peer review and committee roles.
Scholarly Articles: Numerous published articles with high citation rates.
Media Coverage: Articles from Korean news agencies recognizing the petitioner’s research contributions.
Patents: International patents demonstrating the petitioner’s significant contributions to the field.
Letters from Experts: Detailed letters from experts in the field emphasizing the importance of the petitioner’s research.
Conclusion
Final Determination: Approved
Reasoning:
The petitioner met the required evidentiary criteria by providing substantial evidence of his contributions to the field of medical science. His work has garnered sustained national and international acclaim, and his achievements are well-documented through extensive scholarly articles, patents, and media coverage. The petitioner’s research has significantly advanced the field, justifying his classification as an individual of extraordinary ability.
Next Steps:
The petitioner should continue to document his ongoing contributions and maintain records of his research activities and achievements to support any future immigration or professional endeavors.
