u/SnoopyScone

I'm currently working in the US as an ML/DL researcher at an Ivy League university. I've been in the US for over 5 years now, and for about 3.5 years in this job. I'm currently on H1B, and my EB1A I-140 was approved earlier this year, so staying in the US long-term is a realistic option.

Professionally, things are going really well. I enjoy my work, the pay is good, and the work-life balance is excellent. Personally, for a few reasons, I'm seriously considering moving back to India by the end of this year

I'm trying to understand how my profile would be viewed in the Indian job market.

For context:

• B.E. in Computer Science from India
• M.S. in Data Science from the US
• 3 internships during undergrad (2 startups, 1 fintech)
• Summer internship at a Fortune 10 company in the US (received a PPO but chose research instead)
• 3.5 years of full-time experience as an ML/DL researcher in academia (healthcare AI)

A few questions:

1. I know research roles like mine are relatively uncommon in India. If I switch to industry as a Data Scientist or ML Engineer, how do recruiters generally value academic research experience?
2. Most of my work has involved building ML systems, publishing research, and deploying models in a research environment. I have relatively little experience with large-scale production backend systems. If I start learning backend technologies over the next few months, how difficult would it be to transition into industry AI/ML deployment roles?
3. I'd ideally like to relocate to Bangalore. Given my background, what kind of compensation range should I realistically expect at good product companies?
4. I have multiple publications in reputed journals, conference presentations, and a decent citation count. Do these actually matter during industry hiring, or should I keep my resume focused on projects and work experience?
5. For people who have returned from the US, how are candidates with US research experience generally perceived by Indian recruiters and hiring managers? Is it viewed positively, or does it not make much difference?

Any other advice from people who've made a similar transition would also be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Currently on my 3rd rewatch binge. Hurley and Ben’s quiet scene at 41:08 always cracks me up. Especially Ben’s hopeful eyes as he eyes Hurley’s candy

Seeking advice on the best way to handle this:

My STEM-OPT ends on 05/14/2026. H1B starts on 05/01/2026.

Submitted my i983 with final evaluation on 04/25/2026 (last date of evaluation being 04/30/2026). This was rejected today citing that the employer site address in section 5 is not the same as that in SEVP.

But, my lab relocated to a different address on 01/27/2026, and on the same day, I submitted an updated i983 to report changes to the employer site address. This was approved by my DSO on 01/28/2026. I did not check my SEVP portal after that to check if it has been updated. Checked it today after getting the denial email only to see it not updated.

What’s my best course of action here? Thanks in advance!