The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) announced UNLV geneticist Łukasz Sznajder as the first recipient of the MDA Research Momentum Award. This is a new honor recognizing early-career investigators whose innovative, high-impact research is shaping the future of neuromuscular disease science.

The Research Momentum Award is a national honor that celebrates rising scientists within five years of their first faculty appointment who demonstrate exceptional promise through scientific originality, emerging leadership, and meaningful engagement with the neuromuscular research community. 

Sznajder is being recognized for his pioneering work in molecular genetics focused on understanding the mechanisms underlying neuromuscular and neuropsychiatric disorders — including myotonic dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and others — with the goal of advancing new targeted therapeutic approaches.

“I am deeply honored and excited to receive the award,” said Sznajder. “This recognition highlights the importance of fundamental research on disease biology, which advances meaningful progress toward care and a cure for patients and their families.”

His work builds on nearly two decades of research conducted in the United States and Poland, with nearly 20 peer-reviewed publications in leading journals and sustained funding from federal agencies and nonprofit organizations.

“The MDA Research Momentum Award reflects our commitment to investing not only in today’s breakthroughs, but in the scientists who will drive the next generation of discovery,” said Sharon Hesterlee, president and CEO of the MDA. “By recognizing emerging leaders at this pivotal stage in their careers, we are helping build a stronger, more collaborative future for neuromuscular research.”

The award will be presented in March during the 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference in Orlando.