Jacob grew up in the forested hills of south-central Indiana where he developed a passion for wildlife by exploring his backyard. Pursuing this passion led him to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from Ball State University. During his undergraduate studies he assisted with small mammal trapping; helped prepare a management plan for common nighthawk, worked at a deer check station, participated in a bird window collision survey, conducted a study of amphibians and reptiles using drift fences and pitfall and funnel traps, cared for big brown bats, and mist-netted and identified bats in Costa Rica. He then joined a team at the Natural Resources Research Institute in Minnesota where he assisted with numerous projects, many involving bats. His experience with bats led him to the United Kingdom, where he studied the acoustic and flight behavior of greater horseshoe bats for a Master of Science degree at the University of Bristol.

While bats may be his subject of expertise, Jacob is always eager to learn about different animals, plants, and ecosystems. When not working, Jacob can be found either talking about sports, kayaking, hiking, or reading the biggest book he can find.