New Faculty Profile: Jacob Meyer at the University of Wisconsin–Madison
The University of Wisconsin–Madison is pleased to welcome Jacob Meyer as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology within the School of Education. His appointment marks an exciting addition to the university’s faculty, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field of exercise psychology.
Background and Education
Jacob Meyer hails from Madison, Wisconsin, and has a strong academic foundation in exercise science. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in Neuroscience from St. Olaf College in 2008. Following this, he pursued advanced degrees at UW–Madison, obtaining both his Master’s and PhD in Kinesiology, specializing in Exercise Psychology, in 2011 and 2015, respectively. His academic journey continued with a postdoctoral research fellowship in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health at UW–Madison.
In 2017, Meyer took a position as an Assistant Professor at Iowa State University, where he was promoted to Associate Professor in 2023. His diverse experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective on the intersection of physical activity and mental health.
Research Interests
Meyer’s research focuses on the development and testing of behavioral interventions aimed at treating mental health conditions, particularly depression. His personal experiences have fueled his passion for understanding how behavior influences mental health. He is dedicated to exploring the integration of movement into mental health treatment and examining how exercise and physical activity can alter mood at both molecular and mechanistic levels.
Why UW–Madison?
When asked about his attraction to UW–Madison, Meyer expressed enthusiasm for the university’s commitment to cutting-edge scientific research. He noted the strength of the academic medical center and the potential for collaboration with a faculty that boasts a diverse range of expertise. Additionally, Meyer considers his return to UW–Madison a homecoming, which adds a personal touch to his professional journey.
First Impressions of Campus
Having been away for seven years, Meyer was impressed by the growth and development of the campus upon his return. He highlighted the resources available for both students and the community, particularly the Bakke and Nick facilities, which will play a significant role in his research program focused on exercise interventions. He also expressed admiration for the stunning views from the top of Bascom Hill, extending beyond the Terrace to the Capitol.
Connection to the Wisconsin Idea
Meyer believes that his work aligns closely with the Wisconsin Idea, which emphasizes the importance of public service and outreach. He emphasized that his teaching and research have practical applications that can benefit individuals outside the classroom. Through large-scale intervention research, Meyer and his team are actively engaging with hundreds of participants to test innovative programs aimed at enhancing health and well-being.
This research not only brings new ideas to community members involved in the programs but also creates valuable opportunities for students, including internships and hands-on experiences that enrich their educational journey.
Looking Ahead
As Meyer embarks on this new chapter at UW–Madison, he is eager to contribute to the university’s mission of promoting human flourishing through impactful research. His commitment to advancing the understanding of exercise’s role in mental health is poised to make a significant difference in both academic and community settings.
With his expertise and passion, Jacob Meyer is set to become a vital part of the UW–Madison community, furthering the institution’s reputation as a leader in research and education.
