David Jacobs

David Jacobs joined the Norwich faculty in 2020. He earned his B.S. from Kent State University and a Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve University.

Professor Jacobs’ research interests are theoretical and quite broad. His work as a graduate student pertained to the effect of vacuum fluctuation energy – AKA the Casimir effect – as a possible mechanism for stabilizing branes in extra-dimensional scenarios of the Universe. Later, he became interested in understanding the nature of dark matter, the “stuff” that seems to be needed to explain the dynamics and structure of the Universe. He has been focused for several years on the phenomenology of macro dark matter, the class of dark matter candidates that are macroscopic in size, such as dense balls made of quarks or primordial black holes. Most recently, Prof. Jacobs has become interested in the effective quantum mechanics of atomic systems, such as positronium, which may have implications tests of the Standard Model of particle physics.

Dr. Jacobs is also passionate about physics education and making concepts enticing for students of all backgrounds. He enjoys bringing his research into the classroom -- students particularly enjoy learning about the contents of the Universe, like dark matter and dark energy. In his spare time, Dr. Jacobs enjoys rock climbing and hiking the Vermont peaks with his dog, Burger.

Education

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Case Western Reserve University (2007 — 2014)

Companies

• Assistant Professor Norwich University (2020)
• Visiting Assistant Professor Hamilton College (2019 — 2020)
• AP Physics and Chemistry Teacher Chagrin Falls High School (2017 — 2019)
• AP Physics Teacher Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School (2016 — 2017)
• Postdoctoral Research Fellow University of Cape Town (2014 — 2016)
• Research Assistant Case Western Reserve University (2008 — 2014)
• Teaching Assistant Case Western Reserve University (2007 — 2008)