An amateur’s answer

Since you are a H1B visa holder, you should file as a resident alien. Generally, you cannot claim tax treaty benefits as a resident alien. However, there are exceptions. And this exception probably applies to you. Please read the information at the following website.


http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-trty/chintech.pdf, Article 19


My understanding is that you don't have to pay tax if your entire income comes from conducting research at a research institution in the public interest, instead of for the private gain of a specific person or persons.