Four Exchange Visitor sponsors launch resource website showcasing U.S. Department of State's STEM Research Initiative

Washington, DC: Cultural Vistas, the American Immigration Council, CIEE, and the Institute of International Education (IIE) are excited to announce the launch of researcherusa.com, a website that aims to provide comprehensive information about the J-1 Research Scholar visa program, an up-to-5-year J-1 visa program that is part of the U.S. Department of State’s STEM Research Initiative.  

This program is geared toward U.S.-based companies and higher education institutions seeking a simple and streamlined visa solution to attract the top global STEM research talent to advance their cutting-edge research and innovative product development. The STEM Research Initiative allows foreign-born, STEM research experts opportunities to leverage their highly in-demand skills in the U.S. 

Designed as a repository of information about the Research Scholar category of the J-1 visa program, the website offers quick and easy access to an in-depth explanation of the program, outlines its benefits, and offers practical guidance on how to participate.  

The website is designed for U.S.-based companies, foreign-born STEM researchers, higher education institutions, business immigration attorneys, and economic development offices seeking alternative visa options to access the highly sought-after STEM talent. This talent is essential for driving innovation, advancing new technologies, addressing complex global challenges, and fostering economic growth. 

Key Highlights of Researcherusa.com: 

Comprehensive Resource Hub: Program beneficiaries can find the most up-to-date and relevant information, including actionable steps to leverage this up-to-5-year visa program. 

Ready-made Solution: International STEM talent has always been a key driver of U.S. innovation and economic growth. The Research Scholar category of the J-1 visa provides a robust visa solution that reduces barriers to entry and facilitates long-term stays in the U.S for foreign-born STEM talent. 

Actionable Next Steps: Candidates have easily accessible next steps to initiate participation in the J-1 visa program, including access to J-1 sponsors and their J-1 visa application processes and timelines.  

“Our goal with the launch of researcherusa.com is to provide an accessible and comprehensive resource that simplifies the process of bringing top global STEM research talent to the U.S.,” said Jennifer Clinton, CEO of Cultural Vistas.  

“The J-1 Research Scholar visa program is an invaluable tool for advancing innovation, driving research breakthroughs, and solving the world’s most complex challenges. By creating a clear pathway for U.S. companies and educational institutions to engage foreign-born STEM experts, we’re ensuring that they have the talent needed to stay competitive and fuel economic growth.” said Jeremy Robbins, Executive Director of the American Immigration Council 

The new website will be regularly updated with relevant information, resource guides, and best practices. Visitors are encouraged to explore the website and reference it often to stay up to date on the latest developments in the STEM Research Initiative.  

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About the U.S. Department of State’s STEM Research Initiative: Launched in 2022, the initiative was developed to facilitate a pathway for U.S.-based companies, organizations, and higher education institutions to bring the foreign research talent essential to their research and development efforts to the U.S. 

About Cultural Vistas: Cultural Vistas is a non-profit organization designated by the U.S. Department of State to sponsor international Research Scholars, Short-Term Scholars, Specialists, Interns, Trainees, and Teachers who are pursuing career enhancement opportunities in the U.S. as part of the J-1 BridgeUSA Exchange Visitor Program.  Cultural Vistas leverages the power of international exchange to connect lives, enhance global skills and drive positive change in the world.  Visit www.culturalvistas.org or contact us at [email protected]  for more information.   

About the American Immigration Council: The American Immigration Council works to strengthen America by shaping how America thinks about and acts towards immigrants and immigration and by working toward a more fair and just immigration system that opens its doors to those in need of protection, unleashing their energy and skills. The Council employs four coordinated approaches to advance change—litigation, research, legislative and administrative advocacy, and communications. Follow the latest Council news and information on ImmigrationImpact.com and [email protected].    

About CIEE:  CIEE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting international education and exchange. Since 1947, CIEE has been a global leader in providing high-quality study abroad programs, intercultural experiences, and global internships to students, educators, and professionals. With a mission to help people gain the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an interconnected world, CIEE offers a wide range of programs in over 40 countries, focusing on cultural immersion, language acquisition, and personal growth.    Visit www.ciee.org for more information  

About IIE: IIE is a nonprofit leader in international education strategy and programs, working globally with governments, educators, and employers. Founded in 1919, IIE prepares students and professionals for the global workforce, while supporting at-risk scholars, expanding cross-cultural learning, and providing opportunities for underserved populations. IIE operates through 16 offices worldwide and partners with over 1,600 higher education institutions. Visit iie.org for more information or contact [email protected] with questions about J-1 visa sponsorship.