1 | Identify a Foreign STEM Researcher

In most instances, a business’ current team members will have suggestions on which global experts they want to bring on board. They are likely very familiar with other experts in their field of research through publications, research conferences, and other events. Occasionally, foreign researchers may reach out to businesses directly to express their interest. In addition, a matching platform is currently being built to match foreign researchers with relevant STEM research opportunities at U.S.-based companies and institutions. Once launched, this platform can help local businesses and institutions find qualified candidates directly.

2 | Find a Sponsoring Organization

Businesses typically serve as the foreign researcher’s host organization, but they’ll also need to find a program sponsor in order to participate in the STEM Research Initiative. Acting as an administrative partner, the sponsor will work with the business and its team members during the application process and throughout the researcher’s stay in the U.S. Simplifying program administration, sponsors can assist with a wide range of tasks, including:

• Application assistance
• DS-2019 issuance
• Pre- and post-arrival support
• Compliance and risk management
• Transfers to other academic institutions or employers
• Etc.

You can find a list of potential sponsors  to work with here.

3 | Prepare Paperwork & Apply for Visa

The selected program sponsor will work with the business and its team members on what paperwork and documentation they’ll need to apply for the STEM Research Visa initiative and get approved for a J-1 Research Scholar visa that lasts for up to five years. Approval typically takes 6-8 weeks, but businesses may be able to expedite the process by paying their program sponsor an additional fee. 

4 | Map Out Logistics

When planning for the logistics of the research engagement, businesses should consider the following:

• What is their timeline for bringing a foreign researcher(s) over to the U.S.? Do they have a desired start date in mind?
• What is their purpose for bringing over a foreign researcher? What will the researcher’s work be focused on?
• How will the researcher collaborate with their internal teams? Who will supervise their efforts?
• How will they compensate the foreign researcher: an hourly wage, bi-monthly salary, a stipend? How much can their organization afford to pay?
• What are their desired goals and outcomes for hosting a foreign researcher? What by what date?
• How will they measure progress?

5 | Plan Ahead to Ensure a Successful Start

Businesses should map out pre- and post- arrival plans for their researcher. Their program sponsor may be able to share some helpful suggestions and best practices, but here are a few Ideas to get things started: 

• What will the employee orientation process look like for the foreign STEM researcher?
• What are some ways they can ensure they are onboarded successfully?
• What efforts will they make to welcome the researcher at their organization? They may want to consider scheduling a team-wide meeting or outing to facilitate introductions and help them build connections with their new colleagues.
• How will they welcome the researcher to their organization? They should consider scheduling a dedicated meeting or outing to introduce the researcher to their new team members to help them integrate successfully into the group.
• What are their expectations and goals for the research engagement? The researcher’s direct supervisor should make a list and ensure these items are communicated clearly at the start of the engagement to set the researcher up for success from day one.

6 | Collaborate with Sponsors on Ongoing Administration

Once the researcher is in the U.S., the business will remain in touch with their selected program sponsor who can help with things like:

• Facilitate transfers to other employers or academic institutions
• Ensure all necessary paperwork is filed correctly