Arnon Kuzmin, a junior biology major, has received the 2026 Sir Harold W. Kroto and Steve F.A. Acquah Global Educational Outreach for Science, Engineering and Technology (GEOSET) Award for Excellence in Science Communication through Digital Media.

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Acquah, associate research professor of chemistry and coordinator of the Digital Media Lab at the W.E.B. Du Bois Library, presented the award to Kuzmin at the Chemistry Senior and Awards Dinner on April 30, the 10^th anniversary of the death of Kroto, a Nobel Laureate who was a strong advocate for science research and communication. The GEOSET Award carries Kroto’s legacy by honoring chemistry majors who reflect Kroto and Acquah’s work on impactful science communication.

It is the second time Kuzmin has received the GEOSET Award, recognizing his efforts to reach broad audiences through Voltastik, his YouTube channel featuring short videos on emerging science stories.

“Winning the first time felt like validation that I was on the right track,” Kuzmin said. “Winning a second time pushes me to keep going, posting more videos and sharing the latest discoveries. They’re amazing, and I want people to hear about them.”

Kuzmin received a plaque, a $200 prize, and his name was added to a wall-mounted honor roll in the Integrated Sciences Building. He is also developing a science communication project in one of his classes and welcomed the opportunity to connect that work with his video production.

“I enjoy keeping up with new discoveries through creators like Veritasium and Cleo Abram and by reading breakdowns of primary research, and I love sharing what I learn,” Kuzmin said. “That’s how I started Voltastik, a YouTube channel where I make science clear and accessible for a general audience. I handle the writing, recording, and editing, and I like turning dense research into something engaging without losing substance.”

“Kuzmin shows both commitment and passion for science communication,” Acquah said. “His YouTube shorts feel exciting and engaging, and he’s a rising star with thousands of views.” Kuzmin’s work reflects the need to communicate science in an accessible way, building a global community to share the latest advancements with audiences outside academia.

The Digital Media Lab, located on the lower level of the W.E.B. Du Bois Library, offers support for content creators with media production studios, equipment loans, and services for 3D printing, poster printing, and virtual reality, available for drop-in use and curriculum integration.

For additional information about the services offered by the lab, contact Acquah at [email protected] or visit the Digital Media Lab website.