How do you say "geek" or "nerd" with an affectionate feel in Russian?

[Aimee Roebuck-Johnson]

Dear List members,

Please excuse this not very serious query in the midst of recent events.

One of my students has asked me the following question:

How do you say "geek" or "nerd" with an affectionate feel in Russian?  He
says that at MIT, "nerd" is a badge of honor for students, not an insult.
For example, how would you translate these statements:  "My husband is a
real computer geek.  He's always dreaming up some new program."  OR  "My
son is a real space nerd.  He reads up on every rocket launch that is done
anywhere in the world."  Any approximations are appreciated.

Thank you in advance.

Please reply to me at aimee.m.roebuck-johnson at nasa.gov

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