by KARA SCHWEISS
Still early in his career path, Oscar Biesanz prefers an imaginative new way to describe what previous generations learning the ropes called “fake it ‘til you make it” or framed as imposter syndrome. His approach draws from something playful and creative: live-action role play, or LARP.
“You have to LARP everything, constantly,” he said. “You need to just pretend that you’re about to be a professional, maybe tomorrow, and move in that exact way. ‘Soon-to-be qualified expert’ is the perfect LARP.”
For Biesanz, imagination is more than a mindset — it’s a tool for growth, helping him step confidently into new roles before he fully feels ready.
A 2024 UNO graduate, Biesanz earned a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology with minors in chemistry and studio art. He embraces a wide range of experiences, speaking as enthusiastically about past work driving a forklift at Costco or mowing grass along highways as he does about his current role as a research technologist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
“I’m pretty pleased with my experience so far,” he said. “Everything’s scary at first, but then if you just start to do it, the faster it becomes a lot more accessible in your mind. And the next thing you know, it’s like second nature.”
His position at UNMC allows him to blend scientific knowledge with creative thinking — a combination that reflects both sides of his education.
“It’s kind of complicated. I do all the experiments my boss asks me to, and order all the stuff,” he said. “I’m his only employee, so I keep track of everything and the rules for UNMC facilities. I also will touch up his figures for him in Adobe Illustrator for grant applications and publication submissions and things like that.”
Biesanz emphasizes that he genuinely enjoys the work. Using both emerging technologies and artistic techniques, he creates visuals that make complex biological processes more accessible — sometimes turning them into imaginative, approachable representations.
He describes his work as producing “cartoon versions of the proteins beating the crap out of each other, or whatever the particular dynamic may be.”
He is also occasionally tasked with creating cover illustrations for documents.
“That has been a really interesting challenge,” he said.
Outside the lab, Biesanz continues to channel his creativity and leadership through Launch Leadership, a Nebraska-based nonprofit focused on youth development through summer camps, workshops, retreats and consulting for schools and communities. Once a participant himself, he now volunteers in multiple roles, including graphic design, video production and DJing events.
He remains committed to the organization because of the impact it had on him growing up.
“I got so inspired,” he said. “It built my confidence so much.”
Now, he sees that influence come full circle as former participants join him as volunteers.
“They directly cite me all the time as their inspiration to get started and lead others,” he said. “At this point in my life, it’s probably the most fulfilling thing that I do.”
