The award was presented during the society’s 2026 Annual Meeting in Beijing, held September 19–20. This new accolade recognizes individuals whose scientific leadership has fundamentally shaped the field. Samulski previously received the inaugural Founder's Award from the European Society of Gene and Cell Therapy in 2022 and the Founders Award from the American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy earlier in 2026.

Samulski is credited with the first cloning of adeno-associated virus (AAV) for therapeutic use, a breakthrough that established the foundation for modern genetic medicines. His research underpins several FDA-approved treatments, most notably Zolgensma for spinal muscular atrophy. With over 250 publications and 350 patents to his name, he has founded the University of North Carolina Gene Therapy Center and co-founded Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, which Bayer acquired for up to $4 billion. At his current firm, M34, he is focused on advancing gene therapy applications for neurodegenerative diseases.