Dr Pelin Ergun Karakasli was working as a postdoctoral researcher at the Medical College of Wisconsin when she approached us about EB-2 NIW. Her research focused on reflux, inflammation mechanisms, and the development of alternative treatments. We connected that specialization with her academic record and the contribution she proposed to make to US healthcare. Her EB-2 NIW petition was approved without a Request for Evidence.
Case at a glance
| Item | Case details |
|---|---|
| Profile | Medical biochemist and postdoctoral researcher |
| Research institution | Medical College of Wisconsin |
| Research focus | Reflux, laryngopharyngeal reflux, inflammation, and alternative treatments |
| Category | EB-2 National Interest Waiver |
| Preparation | Approximately one month after receipt of the complete documentation |
| Outcome | EB-2 NIW approval without an RFE |
A focused research career
Pelin completed her master’s degree and PhD in medical biochemistry at Ege University. Her work developed in gastroenterology, with a particular focus on reflux and inflammation mechanisms.
She continued that research direction in the United States after joining the Medical College of Wisconsin. As she planned a longer-term academic future there, she explored permanent residence options and discussed both EB-1A and EB-2 NIW with us.
We proceeded with EB-2 NIW after reviewing her profile and priorities. The case focused on the relationship between her established expertise and the research she intended to continue.
Explaining the contribution behind the research
The proposed endeavor was central to the petition. We explained how Pelin’s work on reflux and laryngopharyngeal reflux related to healthcare needs and the development of alternative treatments.
Her background helped support that direction: her education and research experience had developed around a connected area of work. We presented that continuity so the proposed contribution could be understood alongside the experience she brought to it.
The preparation involved explaining both the work itself and why it mattered beyond her individual position. We used the academic evidence to support her experience and the proposed endeavor description to explain her intended contribution.
Drawing on the full academic record
Pelin’s evidence extended beyond publications. It included conference presentations, awards, citations, peer-review activities, media coverage, mentoring, and academic recommendation letters.
We reviewed these materials together when developing the case. They provided different perspectives on her work: research output, professional recognition, involvement in the academic community, and the views of people familiar with her contributions.
Activities she had considered routine or voluntary also deserved review. Looking across the full record helped us identify evidence that might have been overlooked if the assessment had stopped at a publication list.
The role of the supporting evidence
| Evidence | What it helped explain |
|---|---|
| Education and research history | Her preparation for the proposed work |
| Publications and citations | Her research output and references to it in the literature |
| Conference presentations and awards | The communication and recognition of her work |
| Peer review and mentoring | Her involvement in evaluating and supporting academic work |
| Media coverage | Public coverage of her professional activities |
| Recommendation letters | Context for her experience and contributions |
| Proposed endeavor | Her intended work and its broader healthcare relevance |
Organized records helped preparation move forward
Pelin had already collected and filed much of her academic evidence while preparing for future career progression in Türkiye. That organization gave us a useful starting point.
She completed the translations and additional documentation needed for the application. We developed the strategy, prepared the petition, and helped draft recommendation letters. As the written materials developed, we sent them to her for review.
She checked the descriptions of her work and returned feedback. We refined the drafts in response, keeping the scientific details accurate and the overall presentation clear.
The petition was prepared within approximately one month after we received the complete documentation. Her organized records and participation in the reviews helped the preparation progress efficiently.
EB-2 NIW approval without an RFE
USCIS approved Pelin’s EB-2 NIW petition without requesting additional evidence. The case had been submitted under premium processing.
The approval marked an important step in her plans to continue her academic career in the United States. It followed a preparation process that brought her focused research, wider academic record, and future contribution together.
Lessons for academic researchers
- Preserve evidence as your career develops. Organized records can make later application preparation easier.
- Review more than your publications. Presentations, mentoring, peer review, and recognition may help explain your professional record.
- Connect your specialization with your future work. Explain the contribution you intend to make and the experience supporting it.
For more information, visit our EB-2 NIW service page.
How we can help with your EB-2 NIW petition
At Celiksoy Immigration Lawyers, we assess your professional background, available evidence, and proposed US work together. We identify the strengths of your profile and areas requiring further documentation, then develop a petition strategy tailored to your circumstances. Our work includes selecting evidence, preparing the petition and proposed endeavor description, and helping draft recommendation letters when appropriate. We share drafts for review and prepare responses when USCIS requests additional evidence. This approach gives you a clear assessment and an organized process for presenting your research and intended contribution.
Request an EB-2 NIW preliminary assessment
Email your current resume or CV to us@celiksoylaw.com, or complete the EB-2 NIW preliminary assessment form. Tell us about your professional background and the work you intend to pursue in the United States so we can evaluate your potential application options.
Outcomes depend on the facts and evidence in each case. Previous results do not guarantee a similar outcome.