Mathematician Advancing Oncology Through PET Imaging (EB2-NIW Approval)

When Victor A., a mathematician working at the intersection of applied mathematics and oncology, approached HoatPen, he was filled with uncertainty. With only four publications and no formal citations, Victor wondered if his profile was strong enough to meet the rigorous standards of the EB2-NIW (National Interest Waiver) category. Yet, his work told a different story — one of quiet innovation and scientific relevance. His research in Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging applied advanced mathematical modeling to improve cancer detection, image reconstruction, and treatment accuracy.

At HoatPen, we immediately saw potential where others might have seen limitations. Our task was to help USCIS see the same — to shift the focus from numerical metrics to scientific merit, originality, and national importance.

We began by structuring Victor’s petition under the three-pronged Dhanasar framework, building a strong, evidence-based narrative around his contributions.

Prong 1: Substantial Merit and National Importance

For the first prong, we emphasized the medical significance of Victor’s work. His mathematical models were designed to enhance PET imaging precision — a key diagnostic tool in oncology that helps clinicians detect tumors at earlier stages. We demonstrated how improved imaging algorithms could contribute to national healthcare priorities, including cancer control and personalized medicine initiatives led by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Cancer Institute (NCI). By framing his mathematical research within the broader U.S. public health landscape, we established its clear and direct national importance.

Prong 2: Well-Positioned to Advance the Proposed Endeavor

Under the second prong, we built a narrative showing that Victor possessed the technical expertise, academic foundation, and collaborative network to continue advancing his work. We detailed his ongoing research partnerships with oncology and radiology experts, participation in computational modeling projects, and consistent contributions to PET imaging optimization. His academic background and ongoing research made it evident that he was not only capable but uniquely positioned to expand his field’s scientific and clinical applications.

Prong 3: Benefit to the United States Outweighing Labor Certification

Finally, for the third prong, we focused on the national interest waiver justification. We argued that requiring labor certification for Victor’s highly specialized mathematical oncology work would hinder the timely advancement of medical imaging research that directly benefits U.S. healthcare. His independent, interdisciplinary research contributions had the potential to reduce diagnostic errors, improve treatment outcomes, and advance computational medicine — outcomes that align with both public and governmental interests.

Throughout the process, HoatPen’s team meticulously curated every document, from the personal statement and recommendation letters to the technical evidence exhibits. Each piece of writing tied Victor’s achievements to real-world healthcare outcomes and policy priorities.

Just weeks after submission, USCIS approved Victor’s EB2-NIW petition without a request for additional evidence. His approval demonstrated that with the right framing, even applicants with limited publications or citations can successfully meet the EB2-NIW standard when their work’s impact, innovation, and societal value are clearly articulated.

At HoatPen, Victor’s success reinforced one of our guiding principles — numbers may support a petition, but strategy wins it.